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Strengthening the respiratory system and immune system in horses in winter
November 20, 2024
Blog
Pferdefütterung, Startseite
Winter presents a particular challenge for horses. Cold, damp weather, constant temperature fluctuations and an increased risk of respiratory diseases require special measures to maintain the horses' health. Targeted support measures are particularly important in this cold season, when the immune system and respiratory tract are more stressed by external influences.
Why are the respiratory tract and immune system particularly stressed in winter?
In winter, horses are at increased risk of developing respiratory diseases due to cooler temperatures and often high humidity. Dusty stables, damp hay, the cold and frequent encounters with other horses in the pasture or in riding halls promote the development of infections, coughs and runny noses. At the same time, the body has a higher need for nutrients in the cold season to strengthen the immune system and protect the body from external influences.
A strong immune system is crucial so that the horse can successfully fight off viruses, bacteria and other pathogens. The respiratory tract must also be well supplied with blood and kept free of inflammation to facilitate breathing and keep the horse healthy.
What is Herbal Elixir?
Herbal Elixir is a specially developed supplementary feed for horses, which consists of 12 herbs that are traditionally known for their positive effects on the respiratory system and the immune system. It contains a mixture of natural plant substances that have both anti-inflammatory and expectorant effects and help clear the respiratory tract. In addition, herbal elixir strengthens the immune system to better protect the horse from diseases in the cold season.
The herbal mixture contains, among other things:
- Thyme: Known for its expectorant and antibacterial properties, thyme promotes clearing of the respiratory tract and helps with coughs and colds.
- Fennel: Fennel not only has a calming effect on the gastrointestinal tract, but also has a positive effect on the respiratory tract as it has an anti-inflammatory and expectorant effect.
- Echinacea: This plant is traditionally used to support the immune system. Echinacea helps to strengthen the immune system and mobilize the defenses. It promotes the activity of white blood cells, which play a role in fighting infections.
These herbs have been known in herbal medicine for centuries and are valued for their natural and gentle effects.
How does herbal elixir support the respiratory system and immune system in winter?
1. Strengthening the immune system
A horse's immune system must be particularly resilient in the cold season, as it then becomes more susceptible to viruses and bacteria. Herbal Elixir contains a variety of antioxidants that support the immune system by protecting cells from free radicals. Herbs like echinacea help the immune system work efficiently and infections can be fought off more quickly.
In addition, the anti-inflammatory effects of many of the herbs contained can reduce the general tendency towards inflammation in the body, which also helps to support the immune system.
2. Promote respiratory health
A strong immune system not only protects against infections, but also helps maintain healthy respiratory tract. During the winter, especially during long stays in the stable, mucus and dust can accumulate in the respiratory tract, which can lead to coughing, sputum and difficulty breathing. Herbal elixir works here through its expectorant and anti-inflammatory effects. Herbs such as thyme help cleanse the respiratory tract by loosening mucus and having an anti-inflammatory effect at the same time. This promotes free breathing and relieves coughs or irritation in the throat and bronchi. The herbs also help to calm the respiratory tract and protect it from harmful environmental influences - essentially a cough syrup for horses.
3. Prevention of colds and coughs
Winter is the season for colds and respiratory problems. Because horses are more susceptible to colds due to the cool, damp conditions, prophylactic support is important. Herbal elixir has a preventive effect by strengthening the immune system and preparing the body for infections. It can help make the horse less susceptible to colds and can also be used as a cough syrup to accompany therapy.