If you'd asked me about Kunzea essential oil six months ago, I would have had no idea what you were talking about.
Then I received a bottle as a gift through my essential oil company, started diffusing it with orange just to see what it smelled like — and now it's one of my absolute favorites. Fresh, earthy, a little camphor-y, a little citrusy. It's one of those scents that just makes a room feel clean and calm.
And then a reader wrote in asking about tweaking her DIY fly spray to help with ticks — and suddenly I was down a Kunzea rabbit hole I wasn't expecting. What I found was genuinely fascinating, and I think once you understand what's in this oil and what it's actually been researched for, you'll feel the same way.
What Is Kunzea Essential Oil?
Kunzea ambigua is an Australian shrub native to Tasmania and the coastal southeastern regions of Australia, belonging to the Myrtaceae family — the same family as tea tree and eucalyptus. It goes by several common names, including Tasmanian Kunzea, White Kunzea, and my personal favorite: Tick Bush.
The essential oil is wildcrafted and steam distilled from the flowers and leaves of the plant, which has been used by Aboriginal Australians for thousands of years. It's recognized by Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) — essentially the Australian equivalent of the FDA — for its use in skin applications and as a natural insect repellent.
The scent is fresh, medicinal, and slightly camphoraceous with earthy and citrus undertones. It blends beautifully with orange, eucalyptus, lavender, and cedarwood.
Its active compounds — including alpha-pinene, 1,8-cineole, and viridiflorol — overlap significantly with better-known oils like tea tree and eucalyptus, but in a combination that tends to be gentler on skin.
Kunzea Oil and Its Traditional Use for Pain and Inflammation
Aboriginal Australians have traditionally used Kunzea for pain relief — specifically for muscular pain, joint discomfort, and conditions like arthritis — for thousands of years. That's a meaningful track record that modern research is beginning to catch up with.
The alpha-pinene and 1,8-cineole found in Kunzea are both compounds that have been studied for their activity in supporting comfort in muscles and joints when applied topically in a diluted carrier oil.
A study published by Griffith University found that Kunzea ambigua essential oil demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against multiple pathogens associated with inflammatory conditions, which helps explain its long history of traditional use for pain and swelling.
I want to be clear — I'm not a vet or a doctor, and I'm not making medical claims here. What I am saying is that the traditional use of this plant has real science beginning to support it, and I find that genuinely interesting.
Kunzea Essential Oil Antimicrobial Research
This is where Kunzea starts to get really interesting.
A research thesis from the University of Tasmania investigated Kunzea oil's composition, bioactivity, and therapeutic potential — and the findings on antimicrobial activity were significant. The oil demonstrated antimicrobial activity against several hospital-acquired pathogens, including MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) — one of the most antibiotic-resistant bacteria we currently deal with.
A study from Griffith University found that Kunzea ambigua showed significant antibacterial activity against Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Proteus mirabilis, with minimum inhibitory concentrations as low as 33 µg/mL.
Does this mean Kunzea essential oil is a replacement for medical treatment?Absolutely not.
But it does suggest this oil has real, research-backed antimicrobial action — not just traditional lore.
For me personally, this is why I've started reaching for Kunzea as part of my routine for minor wounds and skin irritations on my horses. Diluted in a carrier oil and applied to the area, it's become a go-to in my barn kit.
Kunzea as a Natural Insect Repellent: Why It's Called the Tick Bush
Here's the part that sent me down this rabbit hole in the first place.
One of Kunzea's most well-known common names is literally "Tick Bush." The plant is naturally repellent to insects — something Aboriginal Australians knew and used long before any research confirmed it.
The University of Tasmania research found that Kunzea essential oil provides mosquito repellency comparable to citronella — which is saying something, since citronella is one of the most widely recognized natural insect repellents. Kunzea is also formally recognized by Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration as a natural insect repellent.
Kunzea Essential Oil for Horses
Here's what I find most compelling for horse owners: there is an actual randomized controlled trial — real clinical research — on the use of Kunzea essential oil for pastern dermatitis in horses.
The pastern dermatitis study included 37 horses and compared a Kunzea oil ointment to a conventional ketoconazole treatment. The results showed a significant reduction in lesion size in the Kunzea group, with 63.6% of horses achieving complete resolution — compared to no significant improvement in the ketoconazole group.
That's not anecdotal. That's a controlled trial with measurable outcomes, and for anyone who has dealt with pastern dermatitis, mud fever, or scratches, that's a meaningful finding.
Beyond the pastern dermatitis research, here's how I've been using Kunzea with my own horses:
- Minor wounds and skin irritations — diluted in a carrier oil applied directly to the area
- DIY fly spray — adding to my recipe as a natural pest deterrent during fly and tick season. If you want to read more about how I approach fly spray overall, that full blog is here.
- Muscle and joint support — diluted in a carrier and massaged into sore areas after a ride.
Kunzea Essential Oil for Dogs
Everything mentioned above translates well to dogs — with the usual care around dilution and knowing your individual animal.
For tick season, it's worth exploring adding Kunzea essential oil to your dog's coat spray or regular flea and tick support blend. I wouldn't rely on it as a standalone solution, but as part of a layered natural approach it's worth having in your toolkit.
For skin irritations, minor scrapes, or anywhere you'd want gentle topical support — Kunzea diluted in coconut or fractionated coconut oil absorbs nicely. If you want to go deeper on natural flea and tick support for dogs, I have a full blog on that here.
And if you want to enjoy the aroma — three drops Kunzea and three drops orange in your diffuser is one of the best odor-control combinations I've come across. It just makes your house smell amazing.
How to Use Kunzea Essential Oil
Topically: Best practice is to dilute in a carrier oil. A standard dilution for adults is 2-3% (roughly 12-18 drops per ounce of carrier oil). For animals, keep it on the lower end — around 0.5-1% for horses, less for small dogs.
In a diffuser: 3-4 drops on its own, or blended with orange, lavender, eucalyptus, or cedarwood. Three drops Kunzea + three drops orange is my personal go-to.
In fly or coat spray: Add 10-15 drops per 8 oz of your base spray as part of a blend.
Storage: Like all essential oils, Kunzea does best when stored away from heat and light. A cool, dark spot is ideal — and refrigeration works great if you need longer-term storage. If you want to learn more about storing your oils properly, I have a full blog on that here.
A note on quality: As with all essential oils, quality and source matter. I've personally visited the farms and even helped distill and bottle the oil — and that kind of transparency is exactly why this is the only brand I use and recommend.
Final Thoughts on Kunzea Essential Oil
Kunzea essential oil is one of those oils that deserves a lot more attention than it gets — especially for those of us with horses and dogs. The research is there, the traditional use is there, and my personal experience has been really positive.
I'm still exploring everything it can do, and I'm sure I'll have more to share as I continue using it. If you've tried Kunzea or have questions, I'd love to hear from you — drop a comment below.
As a horse massage therapist for over 20 years, I’ve worked on a lot of horses—and I’m always thinking in terms of what’s going to make my job easier and what’s actually going to add results.
If something has the potential to support the horses I’m working on and build on what I’m already doing, I’m interested. And honestly… tools are fun. I like trying new things and seeing if they can make a difference.
So when the BEMER Horse-Set started getting attention in the horse world, I didn’t hesitate—I bought one.
Not because I was looking to replace massage or essential oils, but because I wanted to see if it could fit into what I was already doing in a way that actually made a difference.
After using it consistently, I definitely have a few thoughts.
Why I Decided to Try It
At the time, I already had a strong routine—both with my own horses and the horses I work on through my massage business.
But I’m always looking for ways to make things better.
If something has the potential to support what I’m already doing, improve results, or make things more efficient, I’m interested. And honestly… trying new tools is part of the fun for me.
I had used PEMF before, so I wasn’t new to the concept. But what I kept coming back to was how something fits into real life—because that matters just as much as how something works.
Some tools require more setup, more decision-making, or just more effort to use consistently. And when you’re working on multiple horses or managing your own, that adds up quickly.
Because if something isn’t easy to use, it usually ends up sitting in the tack room.
That’s what caught my attention with the BEMER Horse-Set.
It’s designed around short, consistent sessions, with a focus on better blood flow—specifically microcirculation, which is where oxygen and nutrients are exchanged at the cellular level.
That combination—something simple to use, designed for consistency, and focused on circulation—was what made me want to try it and see how it would fit alongside the work I was already doing.
What the BEMER Horse Set Actually Is
At its core, the BEMER Horse-Set is a PEMF (pulsed electromagnetic field) system for horses designed to improve circulation in the horse’s body.
But what makes it a little different—and what caught my attention—is its focus on microcirculation.
Microcirculation refers to the smallest blood vessels in the body, where oxygen and nutrients are delivered to tissues and waste products are carried away. It’s a big part of how the body supports recovery, movement, and overall function.
That’s the level BEMER is designed to work on.
If you want to go deeper into how they explain it, the BEMER Group has a full breakdown of how their technology is designed to improve microcirculation.
One of the things I found really interesting was how they demonstrate changes in blood flow. You can actually watch an example of that here.
It’s not something most of us think about day to day—but it plays a role in a lot of the situations we deal with as horse owners.
For me, this is one of the reasons the BEMER Horse-Set fits so well into my routine.
It’s designed around improving circulation—which is something I pay attention to in everything I do—so it naturally became part of my routine as another way to support the horse alongside the hands-on work I’m already doing.
What Stood Out to Me Right Away (Ease of Use)
One of the first things that stood out to me with the BEMER Horse-Set was how easy it was to use.
And that might sound simple, but when you’re working on multiple horses—or even just managing your own—that matters more than people think.
You put the blanket on, press a button, choose one of three settings… and that’s it.
There’s no guessing.
No complicated setup.
No wondering if you’re doing too much or not enough.
No complicated setup.
No wondering if you’re doing too much or not enough.
It’s straightforward enough that it actually becomes part of your routine instead of something you have to think about.
And for me, that’s a big deal.
Because I’ve used tools before where I saw results… but if they’re not easy to use consistently, they don’t end up getting used the way they should.
This felt different.
It was simple enough that I could use it regularly without overthinking it—and that consistency is what made me want to keep using it.
What I Personally Noticed
After using the BEMER Horse-Set consistently, as part of my horse care routine, there were a few things that really stood out to me.
Before Riding
One of the first things I noticed was how horses felt when I used it before I got on.
They felt more ready to go right from the start.
Less of that initial stiffness, less time spent waiting for them to loosen up… just more willing to move forward from the beginning.
And if you ride regularly, you know how much that can change the whole ride.
Energy and Focus
This one surprised me a little.
I started noticing a shift in how horses felt mentally—not dull, not quiet in a flat way… just more settled and focused.
Calm, but still forward.
It’s hard to describe unless you’ve felt it, but it’s that kind of energy where the horse feels more organized and with you instead of scattered or tense.
Hind Leg Support and Stocking Up
I had a large draft mare who tended to stock up in her hind legs, and I also started using the BEMER on other horses dealing with swelling.
What stood out to me was how quickly I would notice a change after using it.
Over time, I found myself reaching for it more and more—partly because it was easy, and partly because I was seeing consistent day-to-day improvements.
In a lot of cases, I was able to rely on it more heavily and do less of some of the other things I had been doing, simply because it fit into my routine so easily and still gave me the kind of results I was looking for.
Recovery and Getting Back to Work
When I used the BEMER Horse-Set as part of a horse’s recovery routine—especially after time off due to injury—I felt like the transition back into work went more smoothly.
Horses seemed more comfortable during that process, and the progression back into work just felt more manageable overall.
I paid pretty close attention to this, and it became something I wanted to include whenever I was working with a horse coming back from time off.
Stall Rest (This Is Where It Really Matters)
This is something I think gets overlooked a lot.
There’s this idea that if a horse isn’t working, they don’t need as much support—but in my experience, it’s actually the opposite.
Horses are designed to move.
This is something I see come up a lot in my work with horses, and it’s one of the reasons I focus so much on supporting the body through things like bodywork and other natural approaches.
So when they’re on stall rest and that movement is taken away, things can start to compound—stiffness, circulation, overall comfort.
That’s when tools like the BEMER can play an even bigger role.
Not as a replacement for movement, but as a way to support the body while they’re not able to do what they’re naturally designed to do.
Supporting Comfort During Digestive Issues
I’ve also used the BEMER Horse-Set in situations where a horse was showing signs of digestive discomfort, while waiting for the vet to arrive.
And just to say it again—calling the vet is always the first step.
But if you’ve been around horses, you know that waiting period can feel long.
For me, I want to feel like I’m doing something to support the horse during that time.
That’s where this has been useful in my routine.
I’ve noticed that many times horses seem to become more settled and comfortable while I’m waiting for the vet, and that alone made it something I wanted to keep on hand.
BEMER vs Other PEMF (How I Think About It)
I’ve used different types of PEMF over the years—and I actually own a traditional PEMF device as well—so I want to be clear that this isn’t about one being better across the board.
It’s more like comparing apples to oranges.
I’ve had good results using both.
What it really comes down to for me is how it fits into real life.
As both a horse owner and a practitioner, time matters. Whether I’m working on multiple horses or fitting something into my own routine, I need tools that are effective but also realistic to use consistently.
And that’s where I find myself reaching for the BEMER Horse-Set most of the time in my day-to-day horse care.
Not because the others don’t work—but because this one is so easy to use, easy to repeat, and easy to make part of a routine without overthinking it.
For a horse owner, that’s huge.
You put it on, press a button, and you can do that day after day without needing to adjust settings or figure anything out.
And in my experience, that consistency is what really adds up over time and makes a noticeable difference in a horse’s overall comfort.
So while I’ve had results with different types of PEMF, this is the one I reach for nine times out of ten—because it works within the time I have and still gives me the kind of results I’m looking for.
Is It Worth It?
This is probably the question most people are really asking.
And yes—the BEMER Horse-Set is an investment. There’s no getting around that.
But the way I look at it is a little different.
When is investing in your horse’s comfort and overall well-being not worth it?
Because if you’ve been around horses long enough, you know how this goes.
They’re big, powerful animals…
but at the same time, they can be surprisingly fragile.
but at the same time, they can be surprisingly fragile.
Something always comes up.
And a lot of what we do as horse owners ends up being reactive—dealing with things as they happen.
But wouldn’t it make more sense to spend less time reacting—and more time doing what we can day in and day out to support them?
Not because things won’t still come up—because they will. Horses are horses.
But when you have something in place that supports them consistently, you’re not starting from scratch every time something does happen.
And at the same time, it’s also about having tools you can reach for in those moments—when something does come up and you want to support the horse as best as you can.
How I Use It Day to Day
For me, this is something that fits really naturally into what I’m already doing.
I use the BEMER Horse-Set:
- on my older horses who tend to stock up, especially in their legs
- before riding, so they feel more ready to go from the start
- on anything that pops up during the day that needs a little extra support
- and before my massage sessions, which makes a noticeable difference in how the tissue feels and how much work I actually have to do
Sessions are short, it’s easy to use, and because of that, it’s something I can stay consistent with without it feeling like one more thing to manage.
Want to Learn More?
If you’re considering the BEMER Horse-Set and trying to figure out if it makes sense for you and your horse, I’m always happy to chat.
Sometimes it’s easier to just talk it through and see how it would fit into your situation.
You can use the contact button here to reach out or set up a quick call—I’m happy to answer questions and help you think through whether it’s a good fit for you.
If you’d rather take a look on your own first, you can explore more details about the system, what’s included, and how it works on my BEMER Horse Set information page.
By the way, that link is an affiliate link, which means I may earn a small commission if you decide to purchase—at no extra cost to you. I only share tools I absolutely love and use in my own routine.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, I’m always looking for simple, consistent ways to support the horses I work with.
And for me, this is one of those tools that just makes sense—it’s easy to use, it fits into real life, and it’s something I actually reach for on a regular basis.
And when something checks those boxes and I see results, that’s what makes it worth it for me.
If you’ve ever had a horse diagnosed with insulin resistance or Cushing’s, you know this isn’t a one-and-done situation.
These conditions tend to show up slowly, evolve over time, and often bring other concerns along with them. Horses with insulin resistance, equine metabolic syndrome (EMS), or Cushing’s (PPID) are more prone to complications like laminitis in horses, which I’ve written more about in my guide on supporting horses with laminitis.
That increased susceptibility is exactly why management matters so much, and why many horse owners start looking for ways to support their horse beyond just the basics.
For me, that meant combining veterinary care, diet and supplement support, and essential oils into a whole-horse approach. Not one replacing the other, but everything working together.
When you look at these conditions this way, it stops being about finding one solution and starts being about supporting the entire system.
What Is Insulin Resistance in Horses?
The simplest way to understand insulin resistance is to think of insulin as a key, and your horse’s cells as doors.
Normally, insulin unlocks the door so sugar can enter the cell and be used for energy. With insulin resistance, that key doesn’t work properly. The doors don’t open the way they should, so sugar stays in the bloodstream.
The body responds by producing more insulin to try to compensate, and over time you end up with consistently elevated insulin levels. That imbalance is what increases the risk for complications like laminitis and other metabolic stress.
What Is Cushing’s Disease (PPID)?
Cushing’s disease in horses starts in the pituitary gland, which sits at the base of the brain and helps regulate hormones.
A simple way to think about it is that the signaling system becomes overactive. The pituitary gland sends too many messages, and the body responds by producing excess hormones. Over time, this can lead to changes like a delayed or abnormal coat, muscle loss, shifts in energy, and increased susceptibility to other issues, including insulin dysregulation.
It’s also very common for horses with Cushing’s to have overlapping metabolic concerns, which is why these conversations tend to go hand-in-hand.
Where Essential Oils Fit in a Metabolic Horse Program
Let’s be very clear about this, because it matters.
Essential oils are not a replacement for veterinary diagnosis, bloodwork, medication prescribed by your vet, diet and forage management, or hoof care. Those are foundational.
At the same time, essential oils are not just “extra” either.
There is research showing that essential oils can influence the nervous system, support a healthy response to inflammation, and interact with the body through the olfactory system in ways that affect both brain and body function. That means they can play a meaningful role in how a horse processes stress, maintains balance, and responds to its environment.
I like to think of this in terms of a circle of support.
Veterinary care, nutrition, environment, routine, and essential oils all sit inside that circle. Each one influences the others. When they’re working together, you get a very different result than when any one piece is missing.
What the Research Says About Essential Oils and Metabolic Health
There is emerging research looking at essential oils in horses with metabolic concerns, particularly around insulin regulation.
One study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science looked at insulin-dysregulated horses given a plant-based essential oil blend orally over several weeks. The horses showed improvements in some markers of insulin sensitivity, especially those with more significant dysregulation.
If you’re curious, you can read the full study in Frontiers in Veterinary Science.
What makes this interesting is not just the outcome, but the compounds involved. Essential oils contain naturally occurring components like cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, thymol, and carvacrol, which have been studied in other species for their roles in metabolism, inflammation, and cellular signaling.
At the same time, this was a proprietary blend, and research in this area is still developing. So rather than treating this as a definitive answer, it’s better viewed as a strong indication that essential oils are interacting with metabolic pathways in ways that are worth paying attention to.
What I’ve Personally Used with My Metabolic Horses
This isn’t theoretical for me. I’ve had one horse with insulin resistance who went on to founder, and another with Cushing’s who also developed laminitis, which is something I go into more detail on in my laminitis support guide.
In both cases, I used essential oils as part of a broader plan that included veterinary care, appropriate supplements, and management changes.
The oils I kept coming back to were consistent, simple, and chosen for how they supported the horse as a whole.
Calming and Nervous System Support
For calming and nervous system support, I’ve relied heavily on lavender and Roman chamomile. Lavender is familiar to most people, but Roman chamomile became a favorite after seeing how clearly one of my horses responded to it. It’s gentle, grounding, and especially helpful for more sensitive horses.
If you want a deeper dive on how I use Roman chamomile with horses, you can read my Roman chamomile guide here.
I’ve also used vetiver when I wanted something deeper and more stabilizing for the nervous system.
Metabolic Support Oils
When looking at metabolic support, ginger and cinnamon come up frequently. Ginger is often associated with circulation and metabolic function, and it’s also referenced in discussions around essential oil compounds and metabolism.
Cinnamon is talked about extensively in the context of blood sugar and insulin sensitivity in other animals, which is why it continues to show up in conversations around metabolic horses.
While that doesn’t make it a proven treatment, it does make it relevant.
Whole-Body Wellness Support
For overall wellness, frankincense and copaiba have been staples for me. These are the oils I reach for when I’m not targeting a single issue, but instead supporting the body’s ability to stay balanced and respond appropriately.
There are also other oils you’ll see mentioned in this space, including lemongrass, basil, and geranium. Geranium is particularly interesting because of its association with hormone balance in aromatherapy, which makes it a natural fit for conversations around endocrine health, even if that connection is anecdotal.
Do Essential Oils Actually Work When Horses Smell Them?
How Essential Oils Affect the Brain and Body
This is one of the most common questions, and the answer is yes, there is more happening than just a pleasant scent.
When your horse smells an essential oil, tiny aromatic molecules enter the nasal passages and interact with receptors that send signals directly to the brain. These signals influence areas responsible for emotion, stress response, and hormonal regulation.
That’s why scent can have such a noticeable effect. It’s not just emotional, it’s neurological and physiological.
There is even research looking specifically at lavender and horses, showing measurable effects on stress responses, including changes in heart rate and relaxation behavior, which you can read more about in this lavender study on horses here.
How I Use Essential Oils in Practice
Aromatic Use
Aromatic use is often the starting point. Letting a horse smell an oil and observing their response can tell you a lot. Some will lean in, some will turn away, and that feedback matters.
Topical Use
Topically, I use oils along the spine as part of massage or bodywork. This can be as simple as a few drops diluted and applied during a quiet moment at the barn. It’s also where techniques like raindrop can fit in, especially if you’re already doing hands-on work with your horse.
Oral Use
Oral use is where things become more controversial, and it’s important to acknowledge that.
I do use essential oils orally with my horses, but I do so intentionally. Not every essential oil is created equal, and quality matters here. If you’re considering internal use, the oils need to be labeled appropriately and come from a company that is transparent about sourcing and testing.
I’ve personally visited the farms where my oils are produced, and that level of transparency is a big part of why I trust them.
If you want to explore the oils I personally use, you can browse them here.
When introducing oils internally, I always start with a single drop and make sure the horse will eat it. From there, I slowly increase. For my mini, that looked like three to five drops, and for a larger horse, up to around ten. Cinnamon, ginger, copaiba, and frankincense were the primary oils I used this way, typically mixed into a portion of feed.
It’s also worth noting that essential oils are not as foreign to the diet as they might seem. If you look at many commercial feeds, you’ll often find essential oils listed as flavoring agents or preservatives. Rosemary oil is one example, but others are used as well, which means horses are already being exposed to these compounds in controlled amounts.
Supporting the Whole Horse
Alongside essential oils, I’ve used supplements recommended by my veterinarian, including chromium for insulin resistance and chaste tree berry for Cushing’s. These are widely available and can be very budget-friendly depending on what you choose.
If you’re working with a vet, it’s always a good idea to ask what they prefer or recommend for your specific horse, especially when it comes to supplements and long-term management.
If you’re interested in incorporating essential oils more intentionally, it can be helpful to work with a veterinarian who is trained in aromatherapy or integrative care.
Most traditional veterinarians aren’t trained in essential oils, so if you ask about something outside of their scope, they’re often going to default to saying no. That doesn’t mean they’re wrong—it just means they’re working within the training they’ve been given.
If you want more guidance in this area, it can be really valuable to find a veterinarian who understands both sides.
There isn’t currently a simple, reliable directory specifically for veterinarians trained in aromatherapy. However, many holistic and integrative veterinarians do have experience with essential oils or are at least open to working with them appropriately.
You can start your search through organizations like the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, which offers a practitioner directory and can help you find veterinarians who take a more integrative approach
Final Thoughts
When you’re managing a horse with insulin resistance or Cushing’s, there isn’t one single answer.
There is a system.
Veterinary care, nutrition, environment, routine, and essential oils all work together. When they’re used thoughtfully and consistently, they create a level of support that no single piece can provide on its own.
Essential oils can be a part of that system.
And when you start to see them that way, they become a meaningful part of how you support your horse every day.
Want to Learn More?
If you’d like a simple starting point for using essential oils with your horse, I’ve put together a beginner-friendly guide to help you get started. You can access it here.
Affiliate Disclosure
This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my small business.
If you’ve ever Googled "are essential oils safe for dogs," you already know how quickly things can feel overwhelming.
One minute you’re looking for a natural way to support your dog or freshen your home…
and the next, it sounds like every essential oil is dangerous and should never be used around pets.
As a dog mom who’s used essential oils for over 10 years, I understand that tension.
Because here’s the truth:
Some of the warnings are valid.
But a lot of the fear comes from missing context.
So instead of giving you a yes-or-no answer, I want to walk you through what actually matters—so you can make informed, confident decisions for your dog.
Why the Internet Sounds So Scary About Essential Oils and Dogs
A lot of what you’ll find online is based on real concerns—but those concerns often get simplified into blanket statements.
Instead of:
“Certain essential oils can be harmful in certain situations…”
It becomes:
“Essential oils are unsafe for dogs.”
That’s a big leap.
When you look closer, many of the concerning cases involve:
- products labeled as “essential oils” that aren’t actually true essential oils
- essential oils that are low-quality, adulterated, or not what they claim to be
- use in ways that aren’t appropriate for the oil or the situation
- inappropriate use (too much, too often, or too strong for the situation)
- not taking into account the individual dog (age, size, health concerns, or sensitivities)
- situations where exposure was far beyond what most people would consider normal use
That’s very different from how most dog owners are actually using essential oils in everyday life—like diluted use, thoughtful application, diffusing at home, or using a well-formulated natural product designed for safe, everyday use.
And that’s exactly where context changes everything.
Are Essential Oils Safe for Dogs? It Depends on Context
When people ask, “Are essential oils safe for dogs?”
the most accurate answer is:
It depends on how they’re used.
Here are the factors that actually matter:
- the specific essential oil
- the amount used
- dilution
- method (diffusing, topical, ingestion)
- your dog’s size, age, and health
- and overall exposure
This is why I’m cautious with extreme statements in either direction.
Because:
- saying “they’re all safe” isn’t accurate
- but saying “they’re all unsafe” isn’t accurate either
The truth lives in the details.
Because blanket statements almost always leave out the most important details.
If all of this feels like a lot, don’t worry—you don’t have to figure it out all at once.
If you’re newer to essential oils and want a simple starting point, I walk through the basics here: Essential Oil Basics for Dog Moms
Why Quality of Essential Oils Matters (Especially for Dogs)
This part gets overlooked way too often.
Not all “essential oils” on the market are created equal.
Some products labeled as essential oils may contain:
- synthetic fragrances
- fillers or solvents
- low-quality plant material
- or adulterated ingredients
That changes everything.
I’ve been to the farms, I’ve seen how they’re grown and distilled, and that matters to me—especially when I’m using anything in a home with animals.
If you’re using essential oils around dogs, quality is foundational.
The Most Controversial Essential Oils for Dogs
When you start researching essential oils and pets, two oils come up again and again:
Tea Tree Oil and Dogs
Tea tree has one of the strongest reputations in pet safety conversations.
There are real toxicity cases—but many involve:
- high concentrations
- improper topical use
- repeated exposure
- or ingestion
That’s very different from thoughtful, diluted use.
And that distinction is where most of the confusion comes from.
If you want to go deeper on this, I break it all down here: The Truth About Tea Tree Oil
Wintergreen Oil and Dogs
Wintergreen is another oil that deserves real respect.
It’s very high in methyl salicylate, which is why it shows up in toxicology discussions.
That doesn’t mean every exposure equals a problem.
It does mean this is one of the oils where a little extra discernment makes sense and many people choose to skip it altogether.
And that’s completely okay—because you have options.
What About Other Essential Oils People Warn About?
You’ll also see essential oils like:
- cinnamon
- clove
- eucalyptus
- peppermint
- citrus
- pine
on caution lists.
Here’s how I think about these:
Some essential oils appear more often in veterinary or toxicology discussions—and the internet often turns that into a much stronger—and more absolute—claim than the actual situation supports.
That’s where I want people to slow down.
Just because an oil appears on a caution list doesn’t automatically mean:
- every use is unsafe
- or that it can’t be used thoughtfully
At the same time…
I’m also not saying to use them carelessly.
This is where discernment comes in.
You Don’t Have to Use Every Essential Oil
This is one of the most empowering shifts you can make.
There are hundreds of essential oils available.
So if an oil:
- makes you uneasy
- has a lot of controversy
- or just doesn’t feel right for your situation
You can simply choose a different one.
You’re not limited.
You’re not forced into using anything.
And that gives you space to create a routine that feels both safe and aligned.
If you’re looking for simple, practical ways to use essential oils around your dog, I share a few of my go-to ideas here: DIY Dog Care Recipes
A Quick Note on Controversial Methods
There are also parts of this conversation that people feel strongly about—and oral use is one of them.
I’m not making this the focus of this post, but I do want to acknowledge it honestly.
I personally do use supplement products that contain essential oils as part of my dogs’ wellness routine.
And at times, I also use essential oils intentionally in capsule form as part of that routine as well.
That said, this is not something I approach casually.
For me, it comes down to:
- understanding the product
- understanding the oil
- using appropriate amounts
- and paying attention to the individual dog
And I fully respect that this is not something everyone will feel comfortable with.
That’s okay.
But I do want to gently challenge you to think a little deeper here.
If you start reading ingredient labels in your own food, you may be surprised to find that essential oils—or their constituents—are already part of your daily life.
They’re commonly used as:
- flavoring agents
- preservatives
- and natural compounds in food products
Most people don’t realize this—and I’ll be doing a deeper dive on it soon.
So instead of approaching this topic from a place of fear or assumption, I encourage you to:
- look deeper
- ask better questions
- and decide what aligns with your comfort level
Because just like everything else in this space…context matters.
Because at the end of the day, most of us aren’t trying to take risks—we’re trying to do better for the animals we love.
And that starts with understanding the full picture.
What I Want You to Take Away
If there’s one thing I hope you take from this, it’s this:
Don’t stop at the scary headline.
Instead, ask:
- What actually happened?
- How was the oil used?
- Was it diluted?
- Was it ingested?
- Was the product high quality?
- What was the condition of the dog?
Because once you start asking better questions…
You start getting better answers.
The Bottom Line on Essential Oils and Dogs
If you Google this topic, you’ll absolutely find people saying not to use essential oils at all.
And if that’s what feels right for someone, that’s their choice.
But I don’t think fear-based, all-or-nothing messaging helps dog owners make the best decisions.
What helps is:
- understanding the details
- choosing quality
- using oils thoughtfully
- and knowing you always have alternatives
So no—I wouldn’t stop at a scary headline.
I’d dig deeper.
And I’d make decisions based on the full picture.
If your house smells like dog no matter how much you clean, you’re not alone—and there’s a simple way to fix it using essential oils.
I’ve always had a lot of dogs in my house, and for the longest time, it just had that lived-in, doggy smell no matter what I did.
No matter how clean things were, it never quite felt fresh.
And I never loved using artificial air fresheners to fix it. Spraying something heavy over an already heavy smell just didn’t feel like the right solution.
Once I got into essential oils, everything changed.
Not because I started doing anything complicated—but because I created a simple routine.
Now, it’s as easy as hitting the start button on my diffuser, and even with multiple dogs (and a horse life that follows me home), my house smells clean, fresh, and calm.
Why Essential Oils Work Differently Than Artificial Air Fresheners
Did you realize most artificial air fresheners simply mask odors?
You’re layering a strong fragrance on top of an existing smell—which is why things can start to feel heavy or overwhelming pretty quickly.
Essential oils work differently.
Many essential oils contain naturally occurring compounds that help break down odor-causing particles instead of just covering them up. Citrus oils like lemon and orange, for example, are known for their fresh scent and their ability to help neutralize unwanted odors in the air.
So instead of just “perfuming” your home, you’re creating a space that actually feels lighter and cleaner.
And when you use them consistently, that fresh feeling lasts.
As with anything you use around animals, pay attention to their behavior and use high-quality, pure essential oils thoughtfully in a well-ventilated space.
My Simple Essential Oil Diffuser Routine
This is what I actually do—and it’s very simple.
Most of the time, I don’t overthink it. I grab an oil I love, add a few drops, and hit start on the diffuser.
But if you want a place to start, here’s what I tend to reach for throughout the day.
Morning Reset (Fresh + Clean Start)
This is where everything begins.
In the morning, I turn on my diffuser as part of my routine—same as coffee, same as letting the dogs out.
If you need ideas, my go-to oils are lemon, orange, and peppermint. Sometimes I’ll add basil for a little extra brightness.
These oils instantly make the space feel fresh and clean while giving you a gentle energy boost to start the day.
Midday Reset (Energy + Refresh)
By midday, things can start to feel a little stale—and this is also when that energy dip tends to hit.
So instead of reaching for caffeine, I reset the space.
I usually reach for peppermint, basil, and a citrus oil like lemon or orange. Sometimes I’ll rotate in eucalyptus for an extra fresh feel.
These essential oils help to refresh the air while also waking everything back up. It’s like opening the windows, even if you can’t.
Evening Calm (Wind Down for Everyone)
In the evening, I shift everything into calm mode.
This is one of my favorite parts of the day because it helps both me and my animals settle.
My go-to oils are lavender, cedarwood, frankincense (or elemi), and Roman chamomile.
Lavender is calming, cedarwood feels grounding, and frankincense has that deep, peaceful aroma that just changes the whole feel of a space.
My little boo-boo especially loves this one—he always seems to settle right into it.
If You Need Ideas, Start With These Core Oils
You don’t need a huge collection to make this work.
If you’re building your routine, start with a few versatile oils like lemon or orange, peppermint, lavender, cedarwood, and eucalyptus.
If you’re newer to diffusing around dogs, you can read my full guide on diffusing essential oils around dogs.
From there, you can keep it simple or start blending depending on what you need in the moment.
Don’t Have Time? Make This Even Easier
If you’re thinking, “This sounds great, but I don’t have time for this…”
I get you.
I was that person too. Even something that takes a minute can feel like one more thing—and when life is busy, it’s the little things that get skipped.
That’s exactly why switching to the right diffuser made such a big difference for me.
Instead of remembering to turn something on, it just happens.
A programmable diffuser lets you set it once and have it run throughout the day—morning, midday, and evening—without thinking about it. Some even let you keep different oils ready to go, so you can shift from energizing to calming without changing anything out.
If you want something even simpler, a plug-in diffuser is a great option. Just add your oil, turn it on, and you’re done. I love these for smaller spaces or quick refreshes.
Once I made this switch, consistency became effortless—and that’s when everything really changed.
If you’re curious, I linkedthe two diffusers I personally use here—they’ve honestly been a game changer for keeping this routine consistent.
Bonus: Barn & Trailer Freshening Spray
My barn is outdoors, and I know a lot of you are in the same situation—or you may not have electricity available.
That doesn’t mean you can’t use essential oils.
Instead of diffusing, I like to make a simple spray.
I use a small bottle with about 2 ounces total, add 10–20 drops of essential oils, and fill it with half water and half alcohol to help disperse the oils.
In the tack room, I love using lemon because it keeps things smelling fresh instead of that heavier leather smell.
In the trailer, I usually reach for lavender to help create a calmer environment while traveling.
It’s simple, quick, and works really well in those open-air spaces.
You Don’t Need a Million Oils
It’s easy to feel like you need all the oils to make this work.
You don’t.
What actually makes the biggest difference is having a core group of oils you love and using them consistently.
That’s what creates a home that smells clean, a routine you’ll stick with, and an environment that feels good for both you and your animals.
A Quick Note on Quality (Because It Matters)
Not all essential oils are created equal—and this is especially important when you’re using them in a home with dogs and horses.
One of the reasons I feel so confident using essential oils daily is because I’ve taken the time to really look into where they come from.
The company I personally use is one I’ve vetted closely. I’ve seen the farms, learned how the plants are grown and distilled, and that level of transparency matters to me—especially when I’m using these products around my animals.
Because just like with air fresheners, the goal isn’t to replace one artificial scent with another.
It’s to create a clean, supportive environment you can actually feel good about.
The Real Secret: Consistency Over Complexity
This is the exact routine that keeps my home smelling fresh every single day—even with dogs and a full barn life.
A simple routine done daily will always beat a “perfect blend” you never use.
You don’t need to overthink it.
Start with one diffuser.
Pick a few oils.
Hit start in the morning.
And if you’re ready to make this easy on yourself, I’ve put together The Fresh Home Reset Bundle with the exact diffuser setup and core oils I use in my own home every day—so you don’t have to guess or piece it together.
It’s designed to give you everything you need to start this routine right away.
If you already have some oils, you can absolutely just grab what you’re missing and build it your own way—but this is the exact combination I reach for daily.
Affiliate Disclosure
Just so you know, some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase—at no extra cost to you.
I only share products I personally use and feel confident using in my own home with my dogs and horses.
Your support truly means so much and allows me to continue sharing simple, natural wellness solutions for you and your animals—so thank you.
