Various Herbs used by Holistic Care Veterinarians

Homeopathic and alternative treatments are becoming more common in human healthcare. And, guess what – that is spilling over into the animal healthcare field as well. At PetFirst, we support alternative therapies and holistic care, as long as it is performed by a licensed veterinarian. Some of you may be pros in the area of homemade herbs and supplements for your pets, but many of you may be skeptical, and we understand.

Looking for a holistic veterinarian? Check out the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association to find one near you.

We recommend leaving the treatment of illnesses or accidents to highly trained veterinarians, but we also believe it is good to be informed about holistic treatments. Here is a list of herbs and what holistic veterinarians commonly use them for:

Aloe: Minor burns, skin irritation, stomach disorders

Borage: Fever, inflammation, respiratory infections, stress

Bupleurum: Fever, irritability

Chamomile: Anxiety, flatulence, indigestion, inflammation, healing of wounds

Comfrey: Bruises, burns, ulcers, healing external wounds

Echinacea: Viral and bacterial illness, eczema, skin issues or problems

Fennel: Colic, flatulence, indigestion, coughs

Garlic: Common cold, coughs, adenoid problems, respiratory infections, bacterial infections

Ginger: Motion sickness, dizziness, digestion

Goldenseal: Digestion, inflammation, infection

Hawthorn: Insomnia, heart trouble, nervousness

Lavender: Nervous exhaustion, insomnia, rheumatic pain

Marigold: Bruises, burns, healing wounds, skin inflammation, conjunctivitis (pink eye), fungal infections, adenoid issues

Milk Thistle: Liver disorders, psoriasis

Mullen: Diarrhea, hemorrhoids, bronchitis, coughs

Nettle: Constipation, allergies

Peppermint: Indigestion, nausea

Red Raspberry: Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting

Rosemary: Headaches, muscular pain, neuralgia (nerve pain), general debility, digestive problems

Tangerine Peel: Promotes digestion

White Willow: Fever, inflammation

Yarrow: Wounds, high blood pressure

PetFirst’s pet insurance plans include coverage for holistic care and alternative therapies like acupuncture, hydrotherapy and more. Get a quote on pet insurance to ensure your dog or cat is able to receive the care they need, whether homeopathic or Western medicine.