Let’s talk joint & muscular issues. Whether you have a horse in work who’s muscle sore and you’re looking for a more natural liniment or rub, or you have an older horse with arthritis who requires more of a regimen, essential oils are here to help. The best part about using essential oils for these issues is that you’re also healing their body overall as well. And if you happen to be sore and creaky, you will use these same oils and products for yourself!
“Holistically we focus on supporting joint health, decreasing inflammation, and supporting health. With this approach, no matter what the cause of the perceived arthritis, the body will generally benefit and improvements will be seen.”, states Melissa Shelton, DVM, in the Animal Desk Reference.
There are quite a few oils that can work on joint & muscular issues, but I’ve chosen our top choices in oils and products for you to work with.
PanAway – think ‘pain away’
blend of Helichrysum, Wintergreen, Clove, and Peppermint
Uses: reducing pain & inflammation, increasing circulation, and accelerate healing
Copaiba – powerful anti-inflammatory oil, also help amplify other oils
Uses: pain relief, arthritis, rheumatism
Ortho Sport Massage Oil
Massage Blend containing the essential oils of Elemi, Eucalyptus Globulus, Lemongrass, Oregano, Peppermint, Thyme, Vetiver, and Wintergreen.
Uses: Decreasing inflammation and pain, increasing circulation, reducing discomfort of arthritis, muscle strain, and joint inflammation.
How to use: Can be used along, or as a base for additional oils within oil spritzers or direct application. Can be massaged, sprayed, rubbed or dripped onto location.
Ningxia Red, Young Living’s “super food” supplement
Supports overall well-being, longevity, and the immune system.
how to use: Give orally, or add to food. 2 – 4 oz daily for general maintenance, 4-6+ oz daily during periods of heavy work or increased unwellness/unsoundness
Sulfurzyme
‘a source of MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) which is a natural anti-inflammatory and vital nutrient for body function. Joined with Ningxia Wolfberry (main ingredient of Ningxia Red), this product far surpasses any other MSM product on the market, and appears to have much greater bioavailability from the combination.’
How to use: up to 1 heaping tablespoon can be given twice a day in cases of need
PROTOCOLS:
Direct application: apply combination of the oils directly to the affected area(s). start with less then add as needed
Water Misting: add 20 drops of desired essential oils(s) up to 4 ounces of distilled water in a glass spray bottle. Shake well, and mist over arthritic/sore area.
TESTIMONIAL from Pam Fischer, CIC*** Advanced Three Day Event Rider, certified in Naturopathic Medicine
Hock Injection Alternative
“It was recommended to me by my vet to start injecting Dante’s hocks with malice acid and steroids, as he was an older horse. Even though I hated the idea of it I had him injected twice because I wanted him to be sound and comfortable.
As an alternative I started using Copaiba, and Idaho Balsam Fir on his hocks a couple times a day. I also started him on a daily dose of Ningxia Red in his food. Since I’ve started this regimen with him, I’ve never had to inject him again, and he has never been lame in his hind end.
Although he is since retired from eventing and only used as a stud horse, I still worry about him getting hurt so I maintain the use of the oils and Ningxia Red.”
Oils and Supplements used: Copaiba, Idaho Balsam Fir, Ningxia Red
Protocol: Apply Idaho Balsam Fir followed by Copaiba directly to the hock or site of soreness/arthritis; add 2 – 4 oz of Ningxia Red to food 1x/day
If you want to talk more about essential oils, their endless application or are interested in purchasing, reach out!
Melanie at melanie@lustforwellness.com[www.lustforwellness.com]
Stay tuned for monthly posts on individual oils and blends that will help bring a holistic approach to your horsemanship!
Hello! I am addicted to oils. We have currently purchased a horse that has to have hocks injected. I was wanting to do more natural to see if I can help him. Can you help me concoct a recipe. I have most of the DoTerra oils.
THANKS CORI