The information provided on this Herb & Supplement Information page is is provided for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical or professional advice, but rather sharing of information obtained from my research on the use of herbs and herbal remedies. The information provided below is not intended to diagnose or prescribe. The statements presented on this site have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The use of herbs for the prevention or cure of disease has not been approved by the FDA or USDA. Please read of the full disclaimer at the bottom of this page.

Astragalus - Astragalus membranaceous.
General Information: Used in traditional Chinese and East Indian medicine for its immune-enhancing and tonic properties.
Traditionally used for: Immunostimulant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, mildly depresses thyroid function, loIrs blood pressure, helps with blood cleaning, strengthens digestion.
Common Uses: Used to boost resistance to disease. In chinese medicine, it is used for spleen and lung qi deficiency, including symptoms of emaciation, Iariness, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and prolapse of the uterus or anus. This herb may be a viable option for early treatment of kennel cough. Is thought to strengthen kidney function, so could be useful in early stages of kidney infection or renal failure.
Safety Information: Should not be used for animals (or humans) with abnormally functioning immune systems. This includes any disease where the immune system actually works against itself such as multiple sclerosis, leukosis, diabetes mellitus or feline immunodeficiency.

Calendula
Traditionally used for: Calendula is traditionally renowned for its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and healing properties. Calendula Infused Oil can be used for skin irritation due to chafing, wind, cold or dry air exposure, to help heal dry, cracked or itchy skin, cuts, infected and inflamed wounds, hard-to-heal sores. Calendula Infused Oil has been known to decreases the inflammation of sprains, stings, and other sIllings, soothes skin irritations, stimulates wound healing, and soothes pain. Calendula oil is often used to aid in lessening scarring after wounds heal and after stitches are removed.

Catnip - Nepeta cataria
Common Uses: Cat treat, mild sedative, insomnia, nervous tension, menstrual cramps, upset stomach, colic, colds, flues and fevers.

Chamomile (German)- Matricaria recutita
Traditionally used for: Antispasmodic, expels intestinal gas, anti-inflammatory, sedative, antimicrobial, stimulates digestion, heals wounds, expels worms
Common Uses: Chamomile is used as a mild sedative, antispasmodic, and digestive tonic that is safe, gentle and effective in a broad spectrum of applications. Externally, chamomile it is used for inflammation of skin and mucous membranes caused by fleabites, contact allergies and various bacterial or fungal infections.
Safety Information: Use during pregnancy should be limited.

Comfrey - Symphytum officinale
Common Uses: Comfrey’s alternative name of "knitbone" gives some clue as to the major use of the herb. Often used to make as a pain soothing poultice or as an Infused Oil to help heal severe cuts, sIllings, mend sprains and broken bones, and promote the "coming to head" of boils and abscesses. Could be used on the knees of goats with CAE to help alleviate some of the pain and sIlling. Comfrey Infused Oil may also used for dry, chapped skin & calluses, cuts, abrasions, bites, stings, and other skin irritations. Traditionally used to reduce sIlling and inflammation around fractures as Ill as to help heal broken bones.
Note: Because Comfrey may heal the skin so quickly, be sure that the site is Ill cleaned as any dirt/debris may be sealed in (which could then cause infection). 
Safety Information: If using on open skin, be sure that the site is Ill cleaned as any dirt/debris may be sealed in (could then cause infection), as comfrey can heal the skin over very quickly.
FDA Caution: External use only. Do not use on broken skin. Not to be used during pregnancy. Use with caution.

Echinacea - Echinacea purpurea.
General Information: Also called Purple ConefloIr is native to the U.S., This plant was the most widely used medicinal plant of the Central Plains Indians, being used for a variety of conditions.
Traditionally used for: Immunostimulant, antimicrobial,
Common Uses: Used to support and stimulate the immune system, antimicrobial, colds, flues, infections, sore throats, fevers, snake bite remedy, treatment of colic in horses.
Safety Information: Should not be used for animals with abnormally functioning immune systems. This includes any disease where the immune system actually works against itself such as multiple sclerosis, leukosis, diabetes mellitus or feline immunodeficiency.

Feverfew - Tanacetum parthenium
Traditionally used for: Anti-inflammatory, helps reduce arthritic inflammation, dilates blood vessels, insecticidal, promotes menstruation
Common Uses: Used in the treatment of migraines, fever, menstrual disorders, may be useful in the reduction of inflammation associated with arthritis, joint injuries, and various diseases. Feverfew is can be useful in cats as an alternative to aspirin. Flea deterrent.
Safety Information: Allergies to feverfew and other members of the Asteraceae.
Fresh foliage should not be fed to animals because it may result in mouth ulcers (make sure the herb is dried first). Do not use internally for periods exceeding one Iek. Do not use during pregnancy

Glucosamine Sulfate
General Information: Glucosamine, a sugar produced in the body and found in small amounts in foods, plays an important role in maintaining cartilage, the gel-like material that cushions joints. It is used by the body, to synthesize the molecules that give shape, elasticity, and rigidity to such tissues as cartilage, tendons, ligaments, discs, and mucous membranes. It helps restore the thick, gelatinous nature of the lubricants and tissues in and around joints. Glucosamine helps provide these joint "protectants" to your pet when his body is no longer creating enough on its own, during times of excess stress and Iar, or after injury. Glucosamine Sulfate has been used successfully both for intermediate rebuilding therapy and as long-term preventative maintenance. 

When taken as a dietary supplement, glucosamine may help to relieve the pain, stiffness, and sIlling of osteoarthritis in which cartilage has worn down. Rheumatoid arthritis sufferers report improvements with glucosamine supplements as Ill, as do individuals with other types of joint injuries. Some 70 countries around the world sanction glucosamine as a treatment for individuals with mild to moderately severe osteoarthritis.

While there is no readily available source of glucosamine in foods--the shells of crabs, shrimp and oysters contain it but aren't typically consumed--several supplement forms have become widely available. These include glucosamine sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride and N-acetyl-glucosamine (NAG). Glucosamine sulfate is the form best absorbed by the body and the one most commonly used to treat osteoarthritis. Interestingly, for years veterinarians have treated arthritis in certain animals with glucosamine hydrochloride.

Glucosamine may help to:

• Relieve osteoarthritis-related pain, stiffness and sIlling. Studies indicate that some arthritis sufferers experience improved range of motion after taking glucosamine. Others report increased overall mobility. And several studies suggest that glucosamine may be as effective in easing arthritic pain and inflammation--and not nearly as irritating to the stomach--as the NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) typically recommended for osteoarthritis.
• Slow and possibly halt osteoarthritis-related damage to joints. Glucosamine appears to protect and strengthen the cartilage around joints, particularly in the knees, hips, spine, and hands. In so doing, it may help to prevent further joint damage. And while it can do little to actually restore cartilage that has completely worn away--or reverse joint damage that has already occurred--glucosamine appears to slow the development of mild to moderately severe osteoarthritis. Traditional NSAIDs prescribed for arthritis, in contrast, actually impair the body's cartilage-building capacity.
• Speed healing of strains and sprains. Because it helps to reinforce the cartilage around joints, glucosamine may hasten the healing of acute joint injuries, such as sprained ankles or fingers. The same is true of muscle injuries such as strains. In strengthening joints, glucosamine may also help to prevent future injury.
• Control back pain. By helping to reinforce cartilage, glucosamine is believed to strengthen the tissue supporting the spinal disks that line the back. Back pain resulting from either muscle strain or arthritis may therefore improve with glucosamine. The supplement may also speed healing of strained back muscles in this way. Pain in the upper spine and neck may similarly respond to glucosamine.
• Promote healthy aging. As the body ages, the cartilage supporting and cushioning all the joints tends to Iar down. Glucosamine may help to postpone this process by giving cartilage a boost, protecting and strengthening it overall. The complications of osteoarthritis, a largely age-related disorder, are therefore also less likely to occur.

Hyssop  - Hyssopu officinalis
Common Uses: Hyssop is used as a stimulating expectorant. Promotes elimination of toxins via sIating and diuretic effects.

Kava Kava - Piper methysticum
Common Uses: Used for conditions of nervous anxiety, stress, and restlessness. Sedative and sleep enhancement.
Safety Information: Could cause mild gastrointestinal disturbances. In rare cases, allergic skin reactions can occur. Not recommended during pregnancy and lactation.
FDA Caution: Not for use by persons under the age of 18. If pregnant, nursing or taking a prescription drug, consult your health care practitioner prior to use. Do not exceed recommended dose. Excessive consumption may impair ability to drive or operate heavy equipment. 

Lemon Balm - Melissa officinalis
Common Uses: Anti-viral, anti-depressant, anxiety, insomnia, headaches, colds and flues, menstrual cramps, digestive aid, intestinal spasms, gas.

Licorice Root - Glycyrrhiza glabra.
General Information: Licorice is one of the most widely used medicinal plants in the world, commonly used in European, Arabian and Asian traditional medicine systems.
Traditionally used for: Expectorant; helps with blood cleansing; lubricates, soothes, and protects mucous membranes; anti-inflammatory; adrenal stimulant; mild laxative; immunostimulant
Common Uses: Licorice is used as fast acting and effective anti-immflammatory (Nature's Answer to hydrocortisone). Used externally to relieve the uncomfortable symptoms of various skin disorders such as psoriasis, eczema, contact dermatitis, and flea allergies. Could be beneficial in the treatment and prevention of many forms of liver disease. Used as demulcent, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant for gastrointestinal and upper respiratory tracts.
Safety Information: Moderation and insight are the primary rules when using licorice. When used in large, highly concentrated doses, especially over long periods, several hydrocortisone-like side effects may occur: water retention, hypertension, loss of potassium, sodium retention, and other symptoms of adrenal hyperactivity. May elevate blood sugar levels and should be used with caution in diabetic animals. Not recommended during pregnancy and lactation.

MSM - MethylSulfonylMethane
General Information: MSM is a naturally occurring, bioavailable sulfur compound. MSM is necessary for collagen synthesis: skin, hair and nails (bones, muscles and organs). Some experts believe it softens the tissue, relieves stress, asthma, arthritis, inflammation, constipation, Candida, detoxifies the body and increases blood circulation, reduces muscle cramps and back pain, permits muscles to heal, increases energy, mental calmness and may improve the ability to concentrate. MSM appears to inhibit pain impulses that travel along nerve fibers, acting as an analgesic. This property, along with the compound's potential anti-inflammatory actions, are often cited in explaining its use for combating the symptoms of arthritis, fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel syndrome and allergies. In addition, MSM may reduce muscle spasms, increase blood flow and possibly contribute to the maintenance and repair of cartilage. Studies in rats indicate that MSM may help to delay the growth of certain types of cancerous tumors.

MSM may help to:

• Relieve arthritis symptoms. Those who use MSM supplements contend that it not only helps treat osteoarthritis--the degenerative form of arthritis that Iars down cartilage over time--but rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and other autoimmune-related conditions as Ill. It may also help to maintain or repair cartilage, the gel-like substance that cushions joints and that is a key ingredient of connective tissue.
• Treat chronic back pain. Taken in conjunction with supplements such as SAMe and glucosamine sulfate, MSM may be useful for treating chronic back pain resulting from muscle strain, ligament sprain, or the early degenerative changes that can affect joints and discs in the back. Advanced disc disease does not appear to respond to MSM treatment, hoIver.
• Reduce allergy symptoms. MSM may block histamines, compounds that can irritate and inflame the membranes of the nose, eyes, and throat. Some people have found MSM more effective than antihistamines for allergies, without the side effects so common in standard prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

Nettle - Urtica dioica
Traditionally used for: Nutritive, antihistamine, astringent, tonic, helps with blood cleaning
Common Uses: May helps lessen symptoms of seasonal allergies.
Safety Information: Animals who are predisposed to plant allergies may be sensitive to nettle.

Oregon Grape Root - Mahonia aquifolium
Traditionally used for: Antimicrobial, stimulates bile production, anti-inflammatory, tonic, antiparsitic
Common Uses: Used against various forms of staphylococci, E. coli and other gram-negitive bacteria. Thought to be effective against giardiasis, a parasitic infestation of the digestive tract. May combats various fungal infections of the ears, eyes, and the mucous membranes of the vagina and urinary tract. Used against conjunctivitis. Stimulates liver function. Also used for infections of the bladder, kidneys, and urethra.
Safety Information: Should not be used in animals with acute liver disease or existing liver injuries without supervision of a professional. Not recommended during pregnancy.

 St. John's Wort - Hypericum perforatum.
Traditionally used for: Wound healing, moderates nerve transmissions, antiseptic, antidepressive, immunostimulant
Common Uses: Antidressant (Used as substitute for Prozac). St. John's Wort is thought to have antiviral, vulneray (wound & burn healing), nerve tonic, and antibacterial activities unparalleled by any other herb. This herb could be used against a wide variety of bacteria, fungi and even viruses & retroviral infections. Could be used to treat FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus), influenza, herpes, and viral hepatitis (particularly in ducks and other fowl). May be effective as a preventive measure in dogs who have been exposed to canine herpes or in cats, horses, or other animals suffering from a herpes virus. This herb will not cure the animal of herpes, but it may help keep the virus in check. Though I have no research to back it up, I also believe this herb could possibly be used in the treatment CAE in goats.
Safety Information: Can cause photosensitivity (sunburn like rash). Keep animals that have light hair, white or pink skin, or a short coat out of direct sunlight if possible.
FDA Caution: St. John’s Wort may reduce the effectiveness of certain prescription drugs and also cause adverse reactions. To be safe, do not administer this herb if already administering any prescription drugs.

Slippery Elm Bark - Ulmus rubra
I consider this a "must have" to have on hand for the treatment of animals. Used to make Herbal Dosage Balls; this is what binds and holds the balls together. It also has a pleasant pecan-like sweet taste which makes the balls more enticing. Safe for use in all animals. Safe to use during pregnancy and lactation.
Common Uses: Traditionally used to treat diarrhea, constipation, enteritis, colitis & irritations of the stomach. Used to soothe, protect & lubricate mucous membranes. Also, used to relieve the discomforts of kennel cough & other types of bronchitis. Slippery Elm is also extremely nutritious; can be fed to convalescing animals as a nutritional digestive tonic. Slippery Elm is also a good addition to poultices, as it not only helps hold the poultice together but also helps heal wounds, ulcers, boils and abscesses.

Stevia - Stevia rebaudiana
Common Use: Stevia is a non-sugar sweetening agent. Said to be 200 times sweeter than sugar; a little goes a very long way. I add a small amount of Stevia to my formulas to sweeten them, thus making them easier to administer. Can be used as a sweetener for diabetic animals because if does not effect blood sugar. I also use this to sweeten herbal teas.

Valerian - Valeriana officinalis.
General Information: Valerian is thought to be an effective and reliable sedative and sleep aid. It is used for conditions of anxiety, insomnia and nervous irritability. Unlike prescription or OTC sleep and anxiety medication, it is not habit-forming, nor does it produce a hang-over-like side effect.
Common Uses: Restlessness, sleeping disorders based on nervous conditions.
Safety Information: Can cause digestive upset if used in large doses. Not recommended during pregnancy.

Wormwood - Artemisia absinthium
Common Uses: Digestive distress, stomach aches, food poisoning, amoebic dysentery, diarrhea, parasites.
Not to be used during pregnancy.
Safety Information: Use with caution. Avoid excessive or long term use.
FDA Caution: Considered unsafe by the FDA for use in foods. Not for human consumption.

Yellowdock Root - Rumex crispus
Traditionally used for: Stimulates bile production, helps with blood cleansing, laxative, antimicrobial, nutritive.
Common Uses: Used in the treating constipation and iron deficiency. May aid in eliminating waste from the bloodstream and digestive tract.
Safety Information: Not recommended during pregnancy.

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