AYURVEDIC HERBAL REMEDY FOR DOGS AND CATS

September 6, 2023

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AYURVEDIC HERBAL REMEDY FOR DOGS AND CATS

Ayurveda experts believe that the holistic medicine system dating back to 5000-6000 BC tends to apply to every living being and it essentially focuses on helping a living being live in harmony with nature, which also applies to our furry companions or pets. Very few pet parents know that their pets can also benefit from Ayurveda since in the ancient Ayurvedic texts, there is a mention of veterinary medicine focused on animal welfare, treatment therapies, management and surgery.

We’re not alone in cherishing our companion animals. In Vedic mythology, dogs are venerated as symbols of the divine and protectors of the gates of heaven. In Nepal, a yearly festival called Tihar is celebrated to give thanks to dogs for their loyal, protective natures. The Hindu folk goddess Sashti, who assists in childbirth, rides a cat, and in the Hindu tradition, killing a cat is a grave sin. Ayurvedic herbs for pet health have been utilized for thousands of years to nurture “man’s best friend.”

Early Ayurvedic texts mention veterinary medicine, treatment therapies, and surgeries — centuries ago, animal healer Sali Hotra wrote the veterinary Ayurvedic Materia Medica as a guide to safe and effective herbs for pets. Below are four adaptogenic Ayurvedic herbs and a formula used for pets. Please note that this information is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition and is for informational purposes only. Consult your veterinarian for any diagnosis and treatment protocol.

India’s Ayurveda, meaning “science of life,” (from the Sanskrit veda for “science” and ayur for “life”) is perhaps the oldest system of holistic medicine, originating in 6,000 BC. Though human westerners have increasingly looked to the healthy wisdom that Ayurveda offers, few are aware that their animals and pets can benefit just as much from the alternative, natural supplements and lifestyle practices as they can.

As mentioned in ancient Ayurvedic texts, early veterinary medicine focused on animal welfare, treatment therapies, management and surgery. Sali Hotra was the first to be credited as an animal healer and wrote Ayurveda Materia Medica in veterinary medicine.

Ayurvedic herbs and modality have been in use for thousands of years with safety and efficiency proving its track record. Though most Ayurvedic products are based on body energetics, to the western mind, it should be clear that most Ayurvedic herbs are well researched with basic and clinical research. Combinations of herbal products balance the energetics of other herbs leading to a balanced product.

Ayurveda has been in use for thousands of years and has a proven track record of safety and efficacy. Here’s how to incorporate it into your practice.

Originating in India, Ayurveda is perhaps the oldest system of holistic medicine, dating back to 6000 BC. Ayurvedic medical textbooks were written in Sanskrit, one of the oldest recorded languages of the world. Ayurveda literally means “science (ved) of life (ayur)”.

According to the texts, Ayurveda in veterinary medicine has traditionally focused on animal welfare, treatment therapies, management and surgery. In the Rigvata (2000 to 4000 BC), physicians described treatments for both animals and humans. Salihotra was the first to be credited as an animal healer when he wrote Ayurveda Materia Medica in Veterinary Medicine and Mrig [animal] and Hasti [elephant] Ayurveda. The first recorded veterinary hospital, opened by King Ashoka in 1463 BC, used Ayurvedic botanicals.

Ayurvedic herbs and modalities have been in use for thousands of years and have a proven track record of safety and efficacy. The majority of Ayurvedic herbs are well researched and backed by clinical trials. Combinations of herbal products stabilize the energetics of other ingredients, leading to a balanced product. The combination herbs can be easily prescribed to treat many problems, even before the clinician studies the basic theory, philosophy and principles of Ayurveda to allow deeper healing.

Ayurveda considered world’s oldest medical science existed since 5000 BC, Ayurveda considered sub Veda of Atharvaveda. Ayu means life and veda means to know, hence text of Ayurveda contains everything related to good things for life like diet, lifestyle guidance, seasonal regime, herbs, treatments, psychological and spiritual aspect of life being. Ayurveda called ashtanga ie having eight medical faculties like kayachikitsa = medicine, baal = pediatric and gynaecology, graha = virology, urdhvanga = ENT, shalya = surgery, Danshtra = Toxicology, Rasayana = Antiageing, Rejuvenation, Vajikarana = Aphrodisiacs. At ancient times Ayurveda created deep impact on human social and health systems of belief and knowledge. That’s why this knowledge taken shapes in the forms like vrikshayurved = Ayurveda for agriculture, hastyayurveda = Ayurveda for elpphants, ashvayurveda = Ayurveda for horses. From ancient times animals like horses and elephants are integral part of army of many kings from period of Ramayana, Mahabharta etc. As ayurveda was main stream of medicine that time, to keep animal health optimum it was used as veterinary medicines also. With this it is already known importance of oraganic farming or not using chemicals in farming. Vrukshayurveda, branch of agriculture Ayurveda also promotes natural, organic form of farming and supports whole ecological system of animal, plant and human ecosystem!!

As animals are more near to nature than humans. Ayurveda uses natural ingredients in medicine contains like plant powder, decoction etc so Ayurveda is more familiar, bioavailable as a best medicine option for animals. Even if we observe or this is common observation is that many animals like dog, cat, and birds eat many types of grass for their complaints like indigestion, vomiting, loose motions etc. Comparing any food or medicine containing any form of chemicals if given more frequent to pets and animals create toxicity, physiological imbalance in them is also very common experience. Now a day every pet food contains artificial flavors and colors which in turn harms pet heath severely. That’s why for us more cases of cancer and tumor in rabbits, renal, liver failure, cancer, arthritis very common in pets like dog and cat. So if natural habitat of pet get disturbed toxicity in they increase which creates organ impairment or severe illness.

Giving artificial factory food always avoided in pets, so veterinary Ayurveda advice is fundamental give your pet or animal food in natural organic forms or from natural resource. With this to keep watch on your pet’s health follow basic observation regarding his sleep, food, motions. If any inflammation or pathology in pets body disturbs his motion, sleep, appetite or psychological behavior! So ayurvedic medicines are more familiar as being natural to animals with this it’s safe and without any side effects and more bioavailable. Even animal are comfortable regarding physical form of medicine like taste, color etc.

Honoring Ancient Wisdom

The Nakul Samhita, a treasure trove of veterinary knowledge believed to be authored by Nakul, one of the Pandava brothers from the Hindu epic Mahabharata, serves as a guiding light. Did you know that, as per Indian Mythology, Nakul and Sahdev were the first veterinary doctors known to man? With Princes Nakul and Sahdev’s horse and cattle farming expertise, thousands of wounded animals were treated daily using natural herbs. The first veterinary hospital in the world was established in the Ashoka Empire with its underlying vision based on the pioneering work of Shalihotra, the Father of Veterinary Science. The groundbreaking foundation of veterinary ayurvedic medicine in ancient literature, including the Vedas and Puranas, inspired Fur Ball Story to showcase the enduring relevance of natural healing in animals.

The Benefits of Ayurvedic Medicines and Supplements for Pets

Ayurveda’s safety and effectiveness have been extensively proven, with zero side effects, making it an ideal alternative to conventional medicine. This aspect provides pet owners peace of mind, knowing they can explore natural healing options for their beloved companions without worrying about potential adverse reactions. Numerous studies have demonstrated that Ayurvedic remedies relieve various conditions, ranging from arthritis to anxiety.

Moreover, Ayurveda encompasses a holistic approach to healing, considering the animal’s physical health and emotional well-being. This comprehensive perspective recognizes that pets, like humans, possess unique physical attributes such as allergies, fits, and other conditions that may require personalized treatment. Similarly, pets may experience emotional challenges such as anxiety or separation issues, which can be addressed through Fur Ball Story’s Ayurvedic remedies to restore balance and harmony.

The company endeavors to provide pet owners access to reliable, proven, and safe remedies by embracing Ayurvedic principles. This ensures that pets receive treatments tailored to their needs, promoting their overall health and well-being while minimizing the risk of side effects often associated with conventional medications.

Need for Ayurvedic Medicines

The company recognizes the urgent need for certified Ayurvedic medicines in veterinary care. It is disconcerting to witness the prevalence of non-certified veterinary medicines that often come with excessive warnings, overshadowing potential benefits. Therefore, it is crucial to reintroduce the concept of natural healing in animals.

Equally important is the diligent lab testing and certification of these Ayurvedic remedies, ensuring transparency and empowering pet parents to know what their beloved pets are receiving. By advocating for certified Ayurvedic medicines, they aim to provide pet owners with safe and reliable options for their furry companions’ well-being.

Ayurvedic Principles in Veterinary Treatment

The Ayurvedic principles that are applicable to humans are applicable to animals too. Ayurveda and pet health is similar to Ayurveda and humans. The concept of dosha, preventive diet, body type, and lifestyle is also applicable in terms of veterinary treatment.

Ayurvedic modalities and herbs have been in use for thousands of years. Most of the Ayurvedic products are based on body energetics, and Ayurvedic herbs are well-researched with clinical and basic research.

The correspondence of macrocosm to microcosm is similar to the relationship between the five parts of a plant and the five elements of Ayurveda. The macrocosm/microcosm relationship can also be understood in the way plants are categorized in Ayurveda. There is a correspondence between the tissues of the Animal Kingdom and the Plant Kingdom. Of all the plants in the Plant Kingdom, the tree is considered to be the ultimate expression just like human beings are considered the ultimate expression in the Animal Kingdom.

Dosha-Based Body Type

Determining the body type in Ayurvedic medicine is based on the five elements theory. It is expressed as the Tridoshas. Tridosha or the three humors, or metabolic forces make up the body and mind. They are Vatta, Kapha, and Pitta.

At the time of conception, combinations of Vatta, Pitta, and Kapha determine the constitution of the new individual, controlling all psychological, biological, and physio-pathological functions of the body, catabolism, and metabolism. Each dosha has subtle properties, and they determine personality traits and physiological structure.

Special Ayurvedic Diet and Lifestyle for Animals

All animals have clear and distinct characteristics and they require a special diet and lifestyle. Not just Ayurvedic treatments, but the food and lifestyle for pets are also defined based on the principles of Ayurveda.

Each dosha is responsible for specific physiological functions in the body. For instance, Vatta controls and maintains the electrolyte balance and movement, and Kapha promotes joint function. Meanwhile, Pitta controls thirst, hunger, and body temperature.

The term lifestyle includes food habits (ahara) and the do’s and dont’s of lifestyle (vihara). Lifestyle-related diseases occur when your pets are not bought up in a healthy environment, according to their body constitution. It is an interesting point to note that Ayurveda has emphasized the role of unhealthy lifestyle and inappropriate dietary habits in the causation of diseases.

The Ayurvedic diet is the eating pattern that has been followed for thousands of years. The Ayurvedic diet is based on the principles of Ayurveda and it focuses on the balancing of different types of energy within your body to improve your health. Unlike other diets, Ayurvedic diet provides personalized recommendations according to your body type. Promotes better health for your pet’s body and mind.

What’s Your Pet’s Body Type (Prakriti)?

If you own a dog, you may be accustomed to referring to it as large, medium or small. But in Ayurveda, body types are more complex than that. Body typing is a unique concept in Ayurvedic medicine, based on the five elements theory. Determining your pet’s body type allows you to learn how to create balance in their mind, body and spirit, thereby a lowing your pet to achieve and maintain optimal health. Moreover, when your pets are functioning at optimal levels, they benefit not only themselves, but also the world around them. Your pets affect the people and places around them in a positive way. Indeed, your pets’ well-being has a great effect on everything and everyone they come across.

In individuals and pets, the five elements manifest as the Tridosha. Dosha means “protective,” or, when out of balance, “disease-producing.” The Tridosha are the three humors, or metabolic forces that make up the mind and body. They are called Vata, Pitta and Kapha.

Vata = Ether + Air

Pitta = Fire + Water

Kapha = Water + Earth

At the time of fertilization, permutations of Vata, Pitta and Kapha determine the constitution of any living being. These three metabolic forces control all biological, psychological, and physiopathological functions of the body, mind, and consciousness and have subtle properties. These forces determine personality traits, and physiological structure, with the influence of gender and other important factors such as diet, lifestyle, behavior, emotions, seasons, and so on.

The unique individual constitution produces natural urges and individual tastes in food, flavor and temperature. The doshas govern the maintenance and destruction of bodily tissue and the elimination of waste products. They are also responsible for psychological phenomena, including emotions of fear, anger, and greed as well as the highest order of emotions: understanding, compassion, and love.

Functions of the Tridosha

A balance of the dosha is necessary for optimal health. The doshas increase by similar properties and are diminished by the opposite ones. For example, Vata is dry, light, and cold; so any food, medicine, or behavior that increases these qualities will increase Vata within the body. Conversely, oily, heavy, or hot factors will decrease Vata.

Together, the doshas govern all metabolic activities; anabolism (Kapha), catabolism (Vata), and metabolism (Pitta). There can be up to ten different constitutions, depending upon the permutation and combination of Vata, Pitta and Kapha. The combination of the three humors remains unchanged throughout a pet’s lifetime but can respond to environmental changes such as diet and lifestyle, thereby providing the opportunity for the pet to maintain health or compromise it.

Ten Dosha Combinations

Vata Pitta-Vata

Pitta Pitta-Kapha

Kapha Kapha-Pitta

Vata-Kapha Kapha-Vata

Vata-Pitta Vata-Pitta-Kapha

VATA PETS

Vata is considered the leader of the three Ayurvedic Principles in the body. Vata governs all movement in the mind and body. It controls blood flow, elimination of wastes, breathing, and the movement of thoughts across the mind. It’s very important to keep Vata in good balance. The related elements are Air and Ether. Common characteristics of pets who have a predominantly Vata constitution:

Mental quickness
Highly intelligent
Quick to learn and grasp new knowledge, but also quick to forget
Slenderness; lightest of the three body types
Runs and walks quickly
Tendency toward cold paws, discomfort in cold climates
Excitable, lively, fun personality
Changeable moods
Irregular daily routine
Variable appetite and digestive efficiency
High energy in short bursts; tendency to tire easily and to overexert
Full of joy and enthusiasm when in balance
Respond to stress with fear, worry, and anxiety, especially when out of balance
Tendency to act on impulse
Often distracted easily
Generally have dry skin and dry fur
Typical health problems include hypertension, earaches, anxiety, irregular heart rhythms, muscle spasms, lower back pain, constipa- tion, abdominal gas, diarrhea, nervous stomach and arthritis. Most neurological disorders are related to Vata imbalance.

Pets of Vata constitution are generally physically slender and small- framed. Their chests are flat with their veins and muscle tendons visible. The skin is cool, rough, dry and cracked. Vata pets generally are either taller or shorter than average, with thin frames that reveal prominent joints and bone-ends because of small muscle development. The eyes may be sunken, small, dry, and active. The nails are rough and brittle. The shape of the nose is bent and in some cases turned-up.

Physiologically, the appetite and digestion are variable. The production of urine is scanty and the feces are dry, hard, and small in quantity. Their sleep may be disturbed and they will sleep less than the other types. Their paws are often cold.

Psychologically, they are characterized by short memories but quick mental understanding. They will understand something immediately, but will soon forget it. They sometimes lack determination, tend toward mental instability, and are sensitive to tolerance, confidence, or boldness. Vata pets are nervous, fearful at times, and afflicted by much anxiety.

PITTA PETS

Pitta is a force created by the dynamic interplay of water and fire. These forces represent transformation. Pitta governs digestion, absorption, assimilation, nutrition, metabolism, body temperature, the luster of the eyes, intelligence, and understanding. Psychologically, Pitta arouses anger and jealousy. The small intestine, stomach, sweat glands, blood, fat, eyes, and skin are the seats of Pitta. Common characteristics of pets who have a predominantly Pitta body type:

Medium physique, strong, well-built
Sharp mind, good powers of concentration
Focused
Assertive, self-confident; aggressive, demanding, pushy when out of balance
Competitive, enjoy challenge
Strong digestion, strong appetite; get irritated if they have to miss or wait for a meal
Like to be in command
When under stress, Pittas become irritated and angry
Uncomfortable in sun or hot weather; heat makes them very tired
People may find them stubborn or pushy
Generally good leadership ability, usually acts as leader of the pack
Subject to mood swings, impatience, and anger
Typical physical problems include rashes or inflammations of the skin, acne, boils, skin cancer, ulcers, heartburn, acid stomach, hot sensations in the stomach or intestines, insomnia, bloodshot or burning eyes and other vision problems, anemia, jaundice.

These pets are of medium build, are slender, and their body frame may be delicate. They show a medium prominence of veins and muscle tendons. The bones are not as prominent as in the Vata pet. Muscle development is moderate.

The fur is soft and warm. The eyeballs will be of medium prominence. The claws are softer. The shape of the nose is sharp. Physiologically, these pets have a strong metabolism, good digestion and resulting strong appetites. The animal of Pitta constitution usually takes large quantities of food and liquid. Their sleep is of medium duration but uninterrupted. They produce a large volume of urine. The body temperature may run slightly high, and their paws will tend to be warm. Pitta pets do not tolerate sunlight or heat well.

Psychologically, Pitta pets have good powers of comprehension; they are very intelligent and sharp. They have emotional tendencies toward hate, anger, and jealousy.

KAPHA PETS

Kapha is the conceptual equilibrium of water and earth. Kapha is both structure and lubrication. One can visualize the Kapha force as the stirring force that keeps the water and the earth from separating. This dosha maintains body resistance. Water is the main constituent of Kapha, and this bodily water is responsible physiologically for biological strength and natural tissue resistance in the body. Kapha lubricates the joints; provides moisture to the skin; helps to heal wounds; fills the spaces in the body; gives biological strength, vigor, and stability; supports memory retention; gives energy to the heart and lungs, and maintains immunity.

Kapha is present in the chest, throat, head, sinuses, nose, mouth, stomach, joints, cytoplasm, plasma, and in the liquid secretions of the body, such as mucus. Psychologically, Kapha is responsible for the emotions of attachment and greed. It is also expressed in tendencies toward calmness, forgiveness, and love. The chest is the seat of Kapha. Common characteristics of pets who have a predominantly Kapha constitution:

Easygoing, relaxed, slow-paced
Affectionate and loving, forgiving, compassionate, non-judgmental nature, stable and reliable; faithful
Physically strong with a sturdy, heavier build
Have the most energy of all constitutions, but it is steady and enduring, not explosive
Slow moving and graceful
Slower to learn, but never forgets; outstanding long-term memory
Soft fur; tendency to have large “soft” eyes and are soft tempered
Tend toward being overweight; may suffer from sluggish digestion
More self-sufficient, need less outward stimulation than do the other types; have a mild, gentle, and essentially undemanding approach to life
Excellent health, strong resistance to disease
Calm, strive to maintain peace in their surroundings
Not easily upset and can be a point of stability for others
Tend to be possessive
Don’t like cold, damp weather
Physical problems include colds and congestion, respiratory problems including asthma and wheezing, hay fever, allergies, and atherosclerosis

Pets of Kapha constitution have well-developed bodies. There is, however, a strong tendency for these individuals to carry excess weight. Their chests are expanded and broad. The veins and tendons of Kapha pets are not obvious because of their thick skin and their muscle development is good. The bones are not prominent.

The fur is soft, lustrous, and oily, and skin texture is cold and pale. The fur is thick, dark, soft, and wavy. The eyes are dense, large, and attractive. Physiologically, Kapha pets have regular appetites. Due to slow digestion, they tend to consume less food. Stools are soft and may be pale in color, evacuation is slow. Sleep is sound and prolonged. There is a strong vital capacity evidenced by good stamina, and Kapha pets are generally healthy, happy and peaceful.

Psychologically, they tend to be tolerant, calm, forgiving, and loving: however, they also exhibit traits of greed, attachment and possessiveness. Their comprehension is slow but definite: once they understand something, that knowledge is retained.

Other body types are a combination and permutation of the dosha present in them. Life is considered a sacred path in Ayurveda; a ceaseless interaction between the internal Tridosha, environment and the external environment, or the sum of cosmic forces. To counterbalance external change, a pet lover may create a balance for their pet in the internal forces by altering his or her diet, lifestyle, and behavior.

Diet by Dosha

In Ayurveda, food is medicine and medicine is food, and it is important to consider the right ingredients, proportions, freshness and seasonality, promoting balance with foods that counter or diminish the excess dosha. If you choose to change your pets’ diets, please do so in increments, taking about three weeks to switch them over to a more wholesome alternative.

In addition to the pet’s dosha, keep in consideration whether the animal is a larger or smaller breed, active or a couch potato. Below are a few specific food recommendations based on either vata, pitta or kapha canines.

Vata (e.g. Greyhound dog) – Vata dogs run cool and dry and should avoid beans, cauliflower, broccoli, peppers, and potatoes. Feed them warming foods such as beef, along with washed and pureed carrots and squashes although they can be quickly blanched then pureed for enhanced digestion.

Avoid ghee as it is hard for animals to digest and can lead to pancreatitis. (Use fish oil instead.) For pets experiencing digestive issues, they can be fed the Ayurvedic dish “kitcheree” made with white basmati rice and mung beans. Spices can include black pepper, cumin and coriander, with a slight bit of hing for Vata dogs.

Pitta (eg Pitbull) – As Pitta dogs tend to run warm, avoid foods that provoke warmth. They do well with cooling foods including meats such as duck, and chicken breasts; dairy products such as cottage cheese, and even tofu. Fresh pureed veggies such as leafy greens are beneficial as well.

Kapha (e.g. overweight Golden Retriever) – For the heavy-set Kapha pet, the diet should contain more wholesome foods such as fresh veggies. Avoid starch, grains and fat, and additives such as molasses and corn syrup. Veggies should include carrots, squash and pumpkin and should always be washed, raw and pureed.

Herbs

The most common herbs and spices for pets include turmeric, cumin and coriander powders for balancing digestion. Try dried or fresh ginger for Vata pets, cumin and coriander for Pitta, and turmeric for Kapha. Take care not to overindulge, as a 60 lb dog only needs 1/8 of a teaspoon of any given herb.

For hyperactive dogs, ashwagandha has a calming effect (also a wonderful herb for humans!) These types of dogs also need to keep active. Some types of dogs are considered working dogs by breed (ie cattle dogs) and need to have a “job” that keeps them involved and moving.

Just remember most Ayurvedic principles that can apply to humans also apply to your pets. Provide them with an environment and nutrition that balances their doshas and they are sure to become a harmonious member of your family, contributing their unique gifts that express their dosha in its most beneficial form.

In the ancient Ayurvedic texts, there is a mention of veterinary medicine focused on animal welfare, treatment therapies, management and surgery. Here are 5 ways to boost your pet’s health with Neem, Ashwagandha, Sesame or Coconut Oil and other Ayurveda herbs

Tulsi

Widely venerated in India as a sacred plant, Tulsi provides the same benefits to cats and dogs as it does to humans. It is used in Ayurveda to relieve gastric distress and is an “amphoteric” herb that contains antioxidants and supports immune system efficiency while down-regulating immune system over-activity. Tulsi can also help to calm hyperactive dogs, and support animals who are under environmental or physical stress.

The herb is also recommended for maintaining healthy skin and hair — the ancient Vedic texts recommend Tulsi oil to support a healthy inflammatory response in the skin. Manufacturers of veterinary Tulsi supplements recommend roughly 700 mg. per dose for dogs, and half that for cats. If an animal is prone to low blood pressure, Tulsi may not be recommended as the herb’s calming characteristics may contribute to lowering blood pressure. Tulsi may also slow blood clotting.

Ashwagandha

Another Ayurvedic adaptogen, Ashwagandha is available for pets in several commercial formulations. As with humans, Ashwagandha is viewed as a rejuvenator and restorative for pets, and is also used in formulations to help support adrenal health. This herb is notable for its ability to both energize and calm, and also provides a healthy inflammatory response in the body.

Some experts recommend the herb for cats to oxygenate the blood and bolster kidney health, suggesting that Ashwagandha helps regulate oxygen-transporting red blood cells. It is also recommended for calming anxious, frightened animals, helping them to relax and rest. General dosage recommendations range from 200 – 500 mg. twice daily for cats, and 500 – 1000 mg. twice daily for dogs. Please note that this dosage information is for educational purposes only, and not meant to replace your veterinarian’s advice.

Turmeric

When it comes to Ayurvedic herbs for pets, no list is complete without Turmeric. This much-researched herb has gained popularity for its joint-supportive characteristics, but it is safe for pets and has several other beneficial properties. Turmeric is used in Ayurveda to support healthy digestive, respiratory, and circulation systems, and is recognized as having a strong ability to modulate a healthy inflammatory response. It is recommended for animal joint care, for its deep ability to soothe and relieve temporary pain of healthy joints.

The protective herb also supports immune health and maintains vitality and youthfulness in pets. Dose recommendations are one-half to one teaspoon every 12 hours for dogs and one quarter teaspoon every 12 hours for cats. Please note that this dosage information is for educational purposes only, and not meant to replace your veterinarian’s advice.

Chamomile

In small doses, chamomile is as calming and comforting for pets as it is for humans. Chamomile’s primary claim to fame is its relaxant properties, and it does indeed have a very soothing effect on pups and cats, alleviating stress and jitters while supporting healthy sleep cycles. A carminative herb, Chamomile blossoms can also soothe the digestive tract, relieve gas and reduce nausea for all around gastrointestinal wellness and ease. Cooled Chamomile tea can even soothe irritated skin on dogs.

Chamomile can be given by mouth in tea, powder, liquid or capsule form. For tea, two teaspoons to two tablespoons depending on the size of your pet is sufficient. Topically, chamomile can be applied as a oil, salve or cream.

! Be sure to use German chamomile German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), not English chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), as English chamomile has been found toxic to cats. Always be sure to get the proper supplement, and in small doses only, for your fur baby and consult with your veterinarian before administering herbs and spices.

Triphala

Triphala is a classic Ayurvedic blend of three wild fruits — Amla, aka Amalaki, Haritake, and Bibhitaki. This formula has been used for centuries as a tonic to support digestive fire, or “agni,” and provide a gentle laxative action. Triphala capsules contain antioxidants and vitamin C that help support immune health and digestion.

Notably, Triphala is made with “wild-crafted” fruits, meaning that the Amla, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki used in the formulation are harvested from undeveloped forest regions rather than domestically cultivated.

Neem

If you want to nourish your kitty or pup’s coat and skin with herbs for pets, look no further than Neem. Neem is a tree that grows throughout Asia, and the bark, leaves and fruit are all used in traditional Indian and Chinese health systems. It has a wide range of uses — from beauty to immunity — that has landed the plant the nickname, “the village dispensary.” This is an excellent plant, whether powdered or liquid, to add to your pet’s beauty regimen.

To start off, Neem is packed with healthy nutrients like omegas and vitamin e, helping to nurture and regenerate the skin and fur while relieving itching and/or wounds. It also is a natural insect repellent, a happy benefit for your outdoor-loving friend. To continue its beautifying benefits, as with humans, the plant is known to be excellent for oral health and you can even find neem bark chew treats in some natural pet retailers.

The plant’s antioxidant content also makes this a choice herb for fighting free radicals and supporting overall immune function to keep your cat or dog happy and healthy for years to come. The plants can be used topically or internally, with many skin-related benefits related to topical use.

Ginger

Fresh, powdered or juiced, ginger is an incredible root for dogs and cats with a wide range of benefits. The plant contains antioxidants that help protect against illness and supports healthy circulation for healthy cardiovascular function. Known to support a healthy inflammatory response, the root can help soothe pet’s joints and muscles, while decreasing gas and bloating for digestive wellness.

Whether minced and sprinkled lightly on food, a thin sliver as a treat, or boiled and cooled for a nurturing tea, dogs and cats love ginger. It must be noted, however, that ginger should only be consumed in small quantities. As wonderful as it is for pets, too much of this intense spice can cause digestive upset. You should check with your vet about exact amounts, but approximately 1/8th to 1/4th teaspoon for small dogs or cats; and 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon for big dogs is a typically an appropriate amount.

Boost brain power with Ashwagandha – Ashwagandha is a root with many medicinal properties and can help to alleviate much stress when it comes down to pets. Ashwagandha helps all pets to be calm, relaxed, and healthy. It can even help them learn faster and remember things better too. Ashwagandha can help support healthy blood pressure levels, stabilize healthy blood sugar, manage stable cholesterol levels in the body, and build up immunity strength.
Improve digestive health with Triphala – It is well known that Triphala has anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps the pet’s digestive system release toxins, but its antioxidant properties help restore a state of balance in the intestine. The dosage recommended by experts on the matter is a quarter of a teaspoon per animal per day. Of course, it’s important to check with a doctor for every specific case depending on your pet’s needs.
Optimise heart and liver health with Neem – The neem tree is a tropical plant widely grown in Asia because of its valuable healing properties, especially in India. It is widely used to cleanse the blood, support healthy skin, promote oral health, and contribute to the proper function of the heart and liver. It even helps with repelling pests like fleas and ticks and maintaining a healthy and balanced environment in your pet’s gut! A recommended daily intake of ¼ teaspoon is advised.
Bring upset stomach on track with Thulasi – Veterinarians commonly recommend Thulasi for dogs and cats to ease symptoms of stomach upset. It also helps dogs with vomiting or diarrhoea, soothes minor skin allergies, and offers added support for the immune system. Thulasi treats pets when they are suffering from gastric distress, and it has antioxidants that help build the immune system. Thulasi calms hyperactive dogs, and it supports pets who are experiencing physical or environmental stress. A recommended daily intake of ¼ teaspoon is advised.
Treat cold and cough with Brahmi –Brahmi has many uses for our furry friends too! This mighty herb can be used to treat cold, anxiety, and stress. Brahmi can also be very beneficial when treating respiratory conditions such as coughs and colds, symptoms often triggered by excess phlegm or mucus that is difficult to expel from the throat and nasal passageways in most animals. Get your precious pets on Brahmi today! Daily dose – ⅛ teaspoon.
Ashwagandha can Help Calm Down your Pet – Just like human beings, pets too can sense the good and bad around them in their surroundings. The energy, vibrations and emotions at home can have an impact on the pet. A Vata-balancing herb like Ashwagandha can help in calming down your pet.
Neem Oil can Enhance your Pet’s Auditory Experience – The hearing ability of your pets is far more superior than that of human beings. Unpleasant noise can increase anxiety and stress in your pet. So, as a pet owner, make sure that your pet absorbs positive noise. Identify noise that disturbs your pet. A few drops of neem oil can be gently rubbed inside your pet’s ear to enhance their auditory experience.
Ayurvedic Herbs can Keep your Pet Hydrated – Pets will drink any water we give them. Just like pet owners, pets too can become sick if they are given unclean and unhealthy water to drink. Pets must be provided with only clean and filtered water as this will keep them healthy and happy. As a pet owner, you must ensure that your pet consumes Ayurvedic herbs which are available in the liquid form. This can be given to your pets either mixed in their meal or a few drops of the liquid herbs can be applied directly into their mouth.
Use Triphala to Enhance the Digestive Health of your Pet – As a pet parent, you can ensure that your pet consumes a healthy and balanced diet. Ayurveda suggests natural ingredients which are free from artificial colouring agents. Triphala is high in antioxidant properties and can enhance the digestive health of your pet.
Apply Sesame or Coconut Oil to Massage the Foot of your Pet – The pet owners should always stick to a routine for their pets and must ensure that the timetable is strictly followed as this will improve their overall health. Sesame oil or coconut oil can be used to massage the foot of your pets. The oil massage apart from nourishing also helps in releasing tension in the muscles and tendons.