Medicinal Herbs for Dogs: The Ultimate Guide

Medicinal Herbs – Natural Remedies for Dogs

Summary

Medicinal herbs offer a natural, effective way to treat a wide array of health conditions in dogs, including digestive issues, joint pain, skin allergies, and cognitive decline. This comprehensive guide delves into the world of medicinal herbs, adaptogens, and medicinal mushrooms, detailing their bioactive compounds, mechanisms of impact, and how they can be used to enhance canine health. It includes an in-depth explanation of what medicinal and adaptogenic herbs are, how they differ, and their specific roles in supporting various health conditions in dogs. The guide also provides a comprehensive list of medicinal herbs, adaptogens, and medicinal mushrooms, as well as detailed sections on the conditions they treat, such as digestive problems, joint and skin issues, immune support, allergies, brain function, urinary health, eye conditions, and inflammation.

Table of Contents

• What Are Medicinal Herbs?
• What Are Adaptogenic Herbs?
• How Do Herbs, Adaptogens, and Medicinal Mushrooms Differ by Mechanism of Impact?
• What Are Herbal Remedies for Dogs?
• Mechanisms of Impact of Medicinal Herbs
• Comprehensive List of Medicinal Herbs, Adaptogens, and Medicinal Mushrooms
• Health Conditions and Issues Treated by Medicinal Herbs, Adaptogens, and Medicinal Mushrooms
  • Digestive Health
    • Stomach and Intestines
    • Diarrhoea and Vomiting
  • Joints
  • Skin and Coat
  • Immune System
  • Allergies
    • Food Allergies
    • Skin Allergies
    • Environmental Allergies
  • Brain and Cognitive Function
  • Urinary Health
  • Eye Health
  • Inflammation
• Conclusion

What Are Medicinal Herbs?

Medicinal herbs are plants with bioactive compounds and phytonutrients that provide therapeutic benefits, often used in traditional medicine to treat various health conditions. In dogs, these herbs can be a natural alternative or complement to conventional veterinary treatments, helping to manage chronic conditions, prevent diseases, and promote overall wellness without the side effects commonly associated with synthetic drugs.

What Are Adaptogenic Herbs?

Adaptogenic herbs are a specialised category of medicinal herbs that help the body adapt to stress, whether physical, emotional, or environmental. These herbs work by normalising bodily functions and improving resilience to stressors. In dogs, adaptogens can be particularly useful in managing stress-related conditions, enhancing energy levels, and supporting the immune system.

How Do Herbs, Adaptogens, and Medicinal Mushrooms Differ by Mechanism of Impact?

Medicinal herbs, adaptogens, and medicinal mushrooms, while all beneficial, differ in their mechanisms of impact:

• Medicinal herbs often target specific symptoms or conditions, such as inflammation, digestive issues, or skin problems, by interacting directly with the body’s systems through their bioactive compounds. For example, turmeric’s curcumin inhibits inflammatory pathways to reduce joint pain.
• Adaptogens work by balancing the body’s stress response and improving overall resilience, without targeting specific symptoms. They help the body maintain homeostasis, which indirectly supports various health conditions by reducing the effects of stress on the body. This makes adaptogens particularly valuable for chronic conditions and long-term health maintenance.
• Medicinal mushrooms are a unique category of fungi that offer immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant benefits. They work by modulating the immune system, enhancing the body’s defense mechanisms, and supporting overall health.

What Are Herbal Remedies for Dogs?

Herbal remedies for dogs involve using medicinal herbs, adaptogens, and medicinal mushrooms to treat or prevent health conditions. These remedies can be administered in various forms, such as tinctures, teas, capsules, or topical applications. Common herbal remedies for dogs include treatments for digestive issues, skin conditions, joint pain, and immune support. When used appropriately, these remedies can offer a safe and effective way to manage your dog’s health naturally.

Mechanisms of Impact of Medicinal Herbs

Medicinal herbs impact the body in several ways, depending on their bioactive compounds. Some herbs reduce inflammation, others boost the immune system, and some support digestive health. For instance:

• Anti-inflammatory herbs like turmeric contain curcumin, which inhibits inflammatory pathways in the body.
• Antimicrobial herbs like pau d’arco contain lapachol, which combats bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
• Immune-boosting herbs like Echinacea stimulate the production of white blood cells and enhance the body’s ability to fight infections.
• Digestive herbs like ginger aid in digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes and reducing nausea.

Comprehensive List of Medicinal Herbs, Adaptogens, and Medicinal Mushrooms

This list includes the most effective medicinal herbs, adaptogens, and medicinal mushrooms for dogs, their primary uses, and mechanisms of action:

• Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea): Boosts the immune system, stimulates white blood cell production, and enhances the body’s ability to fight infections.
• Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus): Immune modulator, increases the activity of immune cells, and protects against oxidative damage.
• Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum): Enhances immune function, reduces inflammation, and provides antioxidant protection.
• Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Anti-inflammatory, reduces joint pain, and supports liver function.
• Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Adaptogen, reduces stress, and supports overall vitality.
• Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus): Adaptogen, enhances the immune response to stress.
• Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Anti-inflammatory, aids digestion, and reduces nausea.
• Chamomile (Matricaria recutita): Calming, reduces inflammation, and supports digestive health.
• Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica): Anti-inflammatory, supports detoxification, and manages allergies.
• Pau d’arco (Tabebuia avellanedae): Antimicrobial, fights infections, and supports immune health.
• Liquorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Immune-modulating, anti-inflammatory, and supports adrenal function.
• Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea): Adaptogen, improves stress resilience, and supports cognitive function.
• Ginseng (Panax spp.): Adaptogen, enhances immune function, and reduces inflammation.
• Maitake Mushroom (Grifola frondosa): Immune-enhancing, activates immune cells, and supports overall health.
• Shiitake Mushroom (Lentinus edodes): Boosts immune function, reduces inflammation, and supports cardiovascular health.
• Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis): Enhances immune function, improves energy levels, and reduces inflammation.
• Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra): Soothes the digestive tract, reduces inflammation, and firms up stools.
• Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis): Soothes the digestive tract, reduces irritation, and supports healing.
• Peppermint (Mentha piperita): Calms the stomach, reduces nausea, and relieves digestive spasms.
• Boswellia (Boswellia serrata): Reduces inflammation, improves joint mobility, and supports cartilage health.
• Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens): Anti-inflammatory, reduces pain, and improves joint function.
• Calendula (Calendula officinalis): Promotes wound healing, reduces inflammation, and has antimicrobial properties.
• Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis): Soothes irritated skin, promotes healing, and provides antimicrobial effects.
• Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon): Prevents urinary tract infections by inhibiting bacterial adhesion to the urinary tract walls.
• Corn Silk (Zea mays): Acts as a diuretic, supports urinary health, and soothes irritation in the urinary tract.
• Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus): Supports eye health by improving blood flow and providing antioxidant protection.
• Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis): Soothes eye irritation, reduces inflammation, and supports overall eye health.
• Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and supports cognitive and digestive health.
• Oregano (Origanum vulgare): Antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and supports respiratory and digestive health.
• Basil (Ocimum basilicum): Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and supports immune function and digestive health.
• Parsley (Petroselinum crispum): Diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and supports urinary and digestive health.

Health Conditions and Issues Treated by Medicinal Herbs, Adaptogens, and Medicinal Mushrooms

Digestive Health

• Stomach and Intestines
  • Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Stimulates digestive enzymes, reduces nausea, and supports gastrointestinal motility.
  • Chamomile (Matricaria recutita): Soothes the stomach, reduces spasms, and supports digestion.
  • Liquorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Protects the stomach lining, reduces inflammation, and promotes healing of ulcers.
  • Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra): Soothes the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and supporting the healing of the mucous membranes.
  • Peppermint (Mentha piperita): Relieves digestive spasms and calms the stomach, making it useful for treating digestive discomfort.
  • Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare): Relieves bloating and gas, soothes the digestive tract, and supports digestion.
  • Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinale): Supports liver function, stimulates digestion, and helps detoxify the digestive system.
  • Basil (Ocimum basilicum): Calms the stomach, reduces gas and bloating, and supports overall digestive health.
  • Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Stimulates digestion, reduces gas and bloating, and supports liver function.
• Diarrhoea and Vomiting
  • Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra): Provides a soothing effect on the digestive tract, reduces inflammation, and helps firm up stools.
  • Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis): Contains mucilage that soothes and heals the digestive tract, reducing irritation and supporting recovery.
  • Peppermint (Mentha piperita): Calms the digestive system, reduces nausea, and alleviates vomiting.
  • Chamomile (Matricaria recutita): Reduces inflammation in the digestive tract, calms the stomach, and helps alleviate vomiting.
  • Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus): Helps manage diarrhoea by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract and providing antioxidant protection.
  • Oregon Grape (Mahonia aquifolium): Contains berberine, which has antimicrobial properties that help combat infections causing diarrhoea.
  • Parsley (Petroselinum crispum): Supports digestion, reduces gas, and helps soothe the digestive tract during episodes of diarrhoea and vomiting.

Joints

• Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Reduces joint inflammation and pain by inhibiting inflammatory pathways in the body.
• Boswellia (Boswellia serrata): Reduces inflammation in joints, improves mobility, and supports the health of cartilage.
• Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens): Offers anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, helping to reduce joint pain and improve function.
• Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Reduces inflammation in joints and muscles, providing relief from pain and stiffness.
• Yucca Root (Yucca schidigera): Contains saponins that reduce joint inflammation and pain, improving mobility in dogs with arthritis.
• Alfalfa (Medicago sativa): Provides essential nutrients that support joint health and reduce inflammation.
• Horsetail (Equisetum arvense): Rich in silica, supports the health of connective tissues and joints, promoting strength and resilience.
• Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum): Reduces joint inflammation and supports overall joint health by modulating the immune response.
• Shiitake Mushroom (Lentinus edodes): Supports joint health by reducing inflammation and providing antioxidant protection.
• Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis): Reduces inflammation in joints, supports energy levels, and improves overall joint function.
• Parsley (Petroselinum crispum): Contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help manage joint pain and stiffness.

For further information on natural remedies to support joints and mobility in dogs the article on Best Herbs for Dog Joints: A Comprehensive Guide may be of interest.

Skin and Coat

• Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica): Reduces skin inflammation, supports detoxification, and helps manage skin allergies.
• Calendula (Calendula officinalis): Promotes wound healing, reduces skin inflammation, and offers antimicrobial protection.
• Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis): Soothes irritated skin, promotes healing, and has antimicrobial effects that protect against infection.
• Chamomile (Matricaria recutita): Reduces skin inflammation, soothes irritations, and promotes healing of the skin.
• Burdock Root (Arctium lappa): Detoxifies the body, supports skin health, and reduces chronic skin conditions like eczema.
• Oregon Grape (Mahonia aquifolium): Contains berberine, which helps manage skin infections and reduces inflammation in skin conditions like psoriasis.
• Liquorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Provides anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, helping to manage itchy and irritated skin.
• Heartsease (Viola tricolor): Traditionally used to treat eczema, reduces inflammation, and supports overall skin health.
• Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum): Supports skin health by modulating the immune response and reducing inflammation.
• Shiitake Mushroom (Lentinus edodes): Provides antioxidant protection for the skin, supports healing, and reduces inflammation.
• Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis): Supports skin health by reducing inflammation and enhancing overall vitality.
• Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Antioxidant and antimicrobial, supports skin health by reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
• Oregano (Origanum vulgare): Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, helps manage skin infections and promotes healing.
• Parsley (Petroselinum crispum): Supports skin health by detoxifying the body and reducing inflammation.

Immune System

• Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea): Boosts the immune system by stimulating white blood cell production and enhancing the body’s ability to fight infections.
• Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus): Modulates and enhances immune function, increasing the activity of immune cells and protecting against oxidative stress.
• Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum): Supports immune function by enhancing the activity of immune cells and reducing inflammation.
• Pau d’arco (Tabebuia avellanedae): Provides antimicrobial effects, supports the immune system, and helps fight off infections.
• Ginseng (Panax spp.): Enhances immune function, supports resilience against stress, and reduces inflammation.
• Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea): Boosts immune function by reducing the impact of stress on the body and enhancing energy levels.
• Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Modulates immune responses, reduces inflammation, and supports the adrenal glands in times of stress.
• Usnea (Usnea barbata): A lichen with powerful antimicrobial properties, helps boost immune function by combating infections.
• Maitake Mushroom (Grifola frondosa): Activates immune cells like natural killer cells, enhancing the body’s ability to fight infections.
• Shiitake Mushroom (Lentinus edodes): Stimulates the immune system, increases white blood cell activity, and provides antiviral protection.
• Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis): Enhances immune function, improves energy levels, and supports respiratory health.
• Basil (Ocimum basilicum): Supports immune function, reduces inflammation, and helps protect against infections.
• Oregano (Origanum vulgare): Antimicrobial, boosts the immune system, and helps combat infections.

Allergies

• Food Allergies
  • Liquorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Soothes gastrointestinal inflammation, supports immune balance, and helps manage food allergies.
  • Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica): Reduces histamine production, alleviating allergic reactions related to food.
  • Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinale): Supports liver function, detoxifies the body, and helps manage allergic reactions.
• Skin Allergies
  • Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica): Manages skin inflammation and detoxifies the body, helping to reduce allergic reactions.
  • Chamomile (Matricaria recutita): Soothes skin irritations, reduces inflammation, and promotes healing.
  • Calendula (Calendula officinalis): Supports the healing of irritated skin, reduces inflammation, and has antimicrobial properties.
  • Burdock Root (Arctium lappa): Detoxifies the body, reducing chronic skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
  • Heartsease (Viola tricolor): Traditionally used to treat eczema, reduces inflammation, and supports overall skin health.
  • Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Provides anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, helping to manage itchy and irritated skin.
  • Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum): Reduces inflammatory responses related to allergies, supports immune modulation.
  • Shiitake Mushroom (Lentinus edodes): Supports immune modulation, reducing allergic reactions and supporting skin health.
  • Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis): Modulates immune responses, reducing allergic reactions and supporting overall health.
  • Parsley (Petroselinum crispum): Reduces histamine levels, supporting the management of allergic reactions.
• Environmental Allergies
  • Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum): Supports immune function and reduces inflammatory responses triggered by environmental allergens.
  • Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus): Enhances immune resilience against environmental stressors and allergens.
  • Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica): Reduces histamine levels and helps manage allergic reactions to environmental factors.
  • Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Modulates immune responses, reducing inflammation and soothing allergy-related symptoms.
  • Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Antioxidant, reduces inflammation, and supports immune modulation in allergic reactions.

Brain and Cognitive Function

• Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea): Enhances cognitive function, supports mental clarity, and reduces the effects of stress on the brain.
• Bacopa (Bacopa monnieri): Improves memory, reduces anxiety, and supports overall cognitive health.
• Ginkgo Biloba (Ginkgo biloba): Increases blood flow to the brain, supports cognitive function, and provides antioxidant protection against cognitive decline.
• Ginseng (Panax spp.): Supports cognitive health, enhances mental clarity, and reduces the impact of stress on brain function.
• Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica): Supports cognitive function, enhances memory, and promotes circulation to the brain.
• Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Enhances memory, reduces oxidative stress in the brain, and supports cognitive health.

Urinary Health

• Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon): Prevents urinary tract infections by inhibiting bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract.
• Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis): Soothes and protects the urinary tract, reducing inflammation and irritation.
• Corn Silk (Zea mays): Acts as a diuretic, promotes urinary health, and soothes irritation within the urinary tract.
• Horsetail (Equisetum arvense): Diuretic and anti-inflammatory, supports the health of the urinary tract and helps flush out toxins.
• Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinale): Diuretic properties support urinary health and help detoxify the kidneys.
• Parsley (Petroselinum crispum): Diuretic, supports urinary health by flushing out toxins and reducing inflammation.

Eye Health

• Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus): Supports eye health by improving blood flow and providing powerful antioxidant protection.
• Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis): Reduces eye inflammation, soothes irritation, and supports overall eye health.
• Calendula (Calendula officinalis): Reduces inflammation, supports healing of minor eye injuries, and provides antimicrobial protection.
• Chamomile (Matricaria recutita): Soothes irritated eyes, reduces inflammation, and promotes healing.
• Ginkgo Biloba (Ginkgo biloba): Improves circulation to the eyes, supports retinal health, and provides antioxidant protection.

Inflammation

• Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Potent anti-inflammatory, reduces inflammation in joints, skin, and the digestive tract, supporting overall health.
• Boswellia (Boswellia serrata): Reduces systemic inflammation, supports joint health, and improves mobility.
• Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Reduces inflammation throughout the body, including in the joints, digestive tract, and respiratory system.
• Liquorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Modulates inflammatory responses, reducing inflammation in various bodily systems.
• Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens): Provides anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, reducing pain and inflammation in joints.
• Yucca Root (Yucca schidigera): Contains saponins that reduce inflammation and pain, particularly in the joints.
• Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum): Modulates the immune system, reducing chronic inflammation throughout the body.
• Shiitake Mushroom (Lentinus edodes): Provides anti-inflammatory effects, supporting overall health and reducing chronic inflammation.
• Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis): Reduces systemic inflammation, supports joint and respiratory health, and enhances overall vitality.
• Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Reduces inflammation, supports joint health, and promotes overall well-being.
• Parsley (Petroselinum crispum): Contains anti-inflammatory properties, helping to manage chronic inflammation and support overall health.

Conclusion

Medicinal herbs, adaptogens, and medicinal mushrooms offer a natural and effective way to support and enhance your dog’s health, addressing a wide range of conditions from digestive issues to allergies, joint pain, cognitive decline, and more. By understanding the specific mechanisms of these natural remedies and how they interact with the body, you can create a tailored regimen that meets your dog’s unique health needs. Always consult with a veterinarian before introducing new herbs or supplements, especially if your dog has existing health conditions or is on medication. With the right approach, these natural remedies can be a powerful tool in maintaining and improving your dog’s health and well-being, offering a holistic and natural path to healing and vitality.

Bonza Superfoods and Ancient Grains plant-based dog food supports dog health with a Food as Medicine approach.

In addition to numerous inclusions including prebiotics (FOS and MOS, inulin), probiotics (Calsporin) and postbiotics (TruPet), Omega-3 with DHA, DPA and EPA (DHAgold) our formula uniquely includes the following medicinal herbs, spices, adaptogens and medicinal mushrooms:

• Chamomile
• Echinacea
• Ginger
• Turmeric
• Black Pepper
• Parsley
• Oregano
• Sage
• Basil
• Cranberry
• Siberian ginseng (Eleuthero)
• Panax Ginseng
• Ashwagandha
• Reishi mushroom