Many people will have heard of Arnica, but what is it? And did you know it can help horse or dog health?

Arnica is a plant related to the common daisy – part of the Compositae family. You can find other members of this family used in herbal health. – e.g. Calendula, Echinacea and Dandelion.

There are several varieties of Arnica, but the most well-used is “Arnica Montana”.

As Arnica is often used for homeopathy and as a herb, it has led to over-harvesting. Also hybrids of Arnica have developed. So it’s a good idea to check both the originating source and purity for the Arnica product you buy.

Arnica contains selenium and manganese. These are two important elements needed for a healthy body.

How to use Arnica with animals?

Many animals can use arnica. This includes horses and dogs.

You can get Arnica as a:

• homeopathic tablet
• skincare lotion/gel
• essential oil

Use Arnica to help:

• relieving the symptoms of bruising
• soothe aches/pains
• relieve your horse’s or dog’s exertion after strenuous exercise.

Does Arnica work?

There have been few clinical trials. And research took place several years ago that tested Arnica in pill form for people, and said it didn’t work. But this didn’t look at the topical application of Arnica, which it’s most used for in both people and animals. Also the use of homeopathy can be a controversial subject. So analysis can be skewed when considering Arnica use in that context.

Veterinary research has taken place showing it can help as an analgesic in dogs: "Use of Homeopathic Arnica montana 30cH for Postoperative Analgesia in Female Dogs Undergoing Elective Ovariohysterectomy". 2022, Homeopathy. https://www.thieme-connect.com/products/ejournals/abstract/10.1055/s-0041-1732352

So as Arnica is popular, why hasn’t there been more clinical trials?

Generally there's few clinical trials for assessing the benefits of herbs for people. Even less so for their use for animal health. This is often because a pharmaceutical company cannot easily patent a plant. So profits are going to be minimal, versus the cost of a clinical trial being very expensive. The lack of clinical trial proving the effectiveness isn’t evidence that it doesn’t work!

Read my Natural Animal Healthcare Research page for more info on this!

Where To Buy Arnica?

Many good pet care stores or equestrian tack shops sell arnica products. Or you can find online in many pet health and equestrian health sites. Remember to buy the best quality, purest Arnica and watch for how much is in the product to get the best results!

Do I use it here for my own animals?

I have used Arnica in the past, and do think it is great for soothing aches. But as I now adore Aloe Vera and the whole of my aloe vera range (as am a Forever Business Owner). I tend to use Aloe based products now for the majority of skin/healthcare!

Lastly, remember if you're concerned about your horse or dog's health, then get proper qualified veterinary surgeon advice before trying any complementary therapy or supplement.

You can also find holistic veterinary surgeon's and trained natural animal healthcare professionals around the world to help you.

Find out more about dozens of natural animal therapies here at Taranet. Or read other articles in this Natural Pet Health Blog. Take a look at the sitemap here to explore how complementary therapies can help your animal!

About the Author

Suzanne Harris is founder of this Taranet website at www.taranet.co.uk. And also provides business coaching to horse and dog care and veterinary professionals. Plus sells a large range of aloe vera healthcare for people and animals.

If you've any questions please email info at taranet.co.uk