What is Veterinary Herbal Medicine?
Herbal medicine is a system of medicine utilizing plants with specific therapeutic benefits. This can be whole or part of the plant and is administered in a variety of ways, including tinctures, teas, whole herbs and capsules.
Herbs have been used for hundreds if not thousands of years in veterinary medicine and hundreds of years in human medicine. Emerging scientific data as well as clinical experience has repeatedly shown therapeutic effects in the body. We now frequently see the use of synthetic or singular components from specific herbs utilizing scientific technology in conventional medicine. Most herbalists however feel that the use of the “whole herb” has greater effect than singular components alone.
Plants love us. They help us reclaim our health and our whole selves. Plants are healers.
Uses of Herbal Medicine for Pets
Herbal medicine can be used for a wide variety of conditions. It can be used alone or in conjunction with conventional medicine or other modalities as well. Some common conditions in which herbs can be utilized include:
- Gastrointestinal disease
- Skin disease
- Osteoarthritis
- Liver and kidney disease
- Cancer
- Illnesses affecting the urinary tract such as cystitis or urinary tract infections
Virtually every system in the body can be treated and supported by herbal medicine! Herbal medicine can also be used in preventative care, working to protect organs and cellular systems prior to insults to the body. They can also be used topically addressing specific skin conditions.
It is generally believed that herbal medicine has fewer side effects than conventional medicine and this can be true if used appropriately. It is imperative to have a proper diagnosis and treatment plan prior to administering herbs. Sourcing of the herbs is also incredibly important to avoid contamination and ensure accuracy of the product.
