Bitter herbs
- Equine Naturelle
- Aug 6
- 2 min read
Bitter herbs play a valuable role in supporting digestion and stabilising the natural intestinal environment in equines. Particularly during the grazing season, the bitter compounds and tannins they contain help the body adapt better to changes in diet and prevent problems such as bloating or pasture diarrhoea. They can also be used following treatments such as worming. The bitter herbs from Okapi and Pernaturam are particularly suitable for this purpose. Always ensure you choose high-quality products so that your animal can fully benefit from the active ingredients they contain.
Bitter herbs are a carefully formulated blend of herbs rich in bitter compounds and tannins. Wild horses specifically select these herbs to support their digestive system, particularly in spring, when fresh, succulent grass is growing. Unfortunately, today’s horses often do not have access to these plants rich in bitter substances, whether in hay or on pasture, which is why it makes sense to feed them such a mixture.
The effect of bitter substances on digestion has been known for centuries. They stimulate the liver to produce more bile, which has a regulating effect on intestinal peristalsis and can aid digestion. Bitter herb mixtures are particularly recommended during periods when the gut is under strain, such as when turning horses out to pasture or bringing them in from pasture, after a worming treatment, or in cases of sensitive digestion, in order to support the gut’s natural balance.
Are bitter herbs suitable for my horse?
In principle, OKAPI bitter herbs are suitable for adult horses of all ages and breeds. In the event of bloating, it is essential to consult a vet, as this may indicate severe abnormal fermentation in the gut, which could lead to colic. In such cases, we recommend first using our Okapi herbs for gut health before resorting to bitter herbs, in order to stabilise the natural gut environment.
Laminitis is a complex condition, with various causes and triggering factors. It is therefore advisable, in such cases, to coordinate the diet with a qualified therapist or a vet. Generally speaking, however, there is no reason not to administer our bitter herbs, as they are favoured by wild horses to promote natural intestinal balance.
Most plants, including our bitter herbs, contain small amounts of chromium, which the body needs for various metabolic processes, including the metabolism of sugar in muscle cells. Our bitter herbs do not contain any chromium-accumulating plants, making them safe for horses with PSSM. The chromium content is comparable to that of a standard forage, and the sugar content is also low, as we do not use sweet grasses. Consequently, our bitter herbs are generally safe to feed to horses diagnosed with PSSM.
Can I combine the bitter herbs with other products?
The bitter herbs combine well with other products. We recommend combining them with OKAPI Lapacho Bark and OKAPI ColoBalance to further strengthen the gut flora.
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