Dealing with your horse's joint discomfort can be a challenge, and in a market filled with various solutions, finding the right tool that works for your horse can be a trial. From supplements to specialized gear, the options are diverse. Among these, I've discovered that essential oils stand out as a simple and easy-to-incorporate tool to help in managing joint discomfort for my equine companions. In this exploration, let's dive into the world of essential oils, understanding their potential benefits and how they seamlessly fit into your toolkit for supporting your horse's comfort and overall well-being.
Understanding Essential Oils: Harnessing Nature's Power 🌱
Essential oils are concentrated extracts derived from various parts of plants, such as leaves, flowers, stems, and roots. These oils capture the plant's aromatic compounds and unique properties, serving as potent representations of nature's therapeutic richness.
The extraction process involves methods like distillation or cold pressing, ensuring the preservation of the plant's beneficial components. These aromatic wonders have a deep-rooted history, with their usage dating back to ancient civilizations for various purposes, including wellness and fragrance.
So, when you incorporate essential oils into your routine for your horses, you're essentially embracing the essence of nature's healing potential. It's like bringing a piece of the great outdoors into your daily wellness practices. 🌱🐴🐾
Quality Matters: Choosing Wisely 🧪
The efficacy and safety of essential oils hinges on their quality. Opt for premium grade oils to ensure your horse receives the full spectrum of benefits. Quality matters not only for effectiveness but also for the safety of your equine companion, ensuring that they experience the intended support for their joints.
Selecting high-quality essential oils for joint support is a proactive step towards ensuring their effectiveness. By prioritizing quality, you're not just applying oils; you're providing your horse with a carefully crafted blend of natural compounds that work in harmony to address joint discomfort.
A Word on Consulting Your Veterinarian 🤓🐴
In matters of joint discomfort, your veterinarian's guidance is paramount. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the most suitable applications and nutraceuticals for your horse's specific joint needs, then use essential oils as support for your horse. This collaborative approach ensures that your horse's well-being remains the focal point.
The partnership between you, your horse, and your veterinarian takes center stage when addressing joint discomfort. Your vet's expertise allows them to assess your horse's individual health, providing personalized insights that shape the treatment for optimal joint care.
Practical Tips for Using Essential Oils For Joint Comfort 🚶♀️🌿
When it comes to promoting joint comfort in your horses with essential oils, streamline your approach with three simple application methods. While you can opt for the traditional method of applying oil to your hands and rubbing it onto the target area, we aim for efficiency and effectiveness. Enhance your routine with the following methods, ensuring your essential oils are conveniently diluted and readily available for swift application as needed. 🐴🌿
- Make a roll on
- Make a spray
- Make a massage rub
For a convenient roll-on application, prepare a blend by combining 20 drops of your chosen essential oils with a carrier oil like fractionated coconut oil in a 10 ml roll on bottle. For a step by step guide to making a roller bottle, click HERE.
When opting for a soothing spray, mix 20 drops of essential oils in a 2-ounce spray bottle with half vodka and half distilled water. The vodka helps the essential oil mix with water but you will still need to shake well each and every time you spray. You can also use tap water but I prefer using distilled or purified as the impurities have been removed. For a step by step guide to making a spray, click HERE.
If you prefer a more hands-on approach, crafting a massage rub is an excellent choice. Create a blend by combining 60 drops of essential oil with a cup of carrier oil. I like to use fractionated coconut oil, but Jojoba oil is also an excellent choice. Then you can gently massage onto targeted areas, offering a comforting and supportive experience for your animal companions.
My favorite essential oils to support joint care
There are many essential oils on the market today and many of them can be used to support joints. Over the years, I find myself reaching for a core 6 that I have had much sucess with:
Peppermint: Peppermint essential oil is derived from the peppermint plant, known for its refreshing and invigorating aroma. In joint care, peppermint oil may provide a cooling sensation and potential relief due to its menthol content.
Wintergreen: Wintergreen essential oil comes from the leaves of the wintergreen plant. It contains methyl salicylate, which is a compound that has been extensively studied and believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. When applied topically, it may offer a soothing effect on joints.
Copaiba: Copaiba essential oil is extracted from the resin of the Copaifera tree. This study on PubMed Central, found 'Copaiba oleoresin has been related to properties including healing and anti-inflammatory effects'. Its unique composition includes beta-caryophyllene, which has been studied and reputed to have anti-inflammatory and calming properties, making it a valuable asset in your natural wellness toolkit. Its mild, woody aroma, that horses seems to love, also makes it a good choice.
Grand Fir: Grand Fir essential oil is sourced from the needles of the Grand Fir tree. This oil is rich in compounds that may contribute to a sense of soothing comfort when applied to joints. Its crisp, evergreen scent adds a delightful touch. Grand fir also has an aromatic appeal, and is often associated with emotional well-being. Its grounding and comforting properties make it a favorite for those seeking a sense of balance and tranquility, which comes in handy for us and our horses emotions.
Helichrysum: Helichrysum, affectionately known as the "Everlasting" or "Immortelle" flower, earns its name from the enduring vibrancy of its blossoms, which retain their color even after drying. This resilience reflects its potential advantages for skin health and overall wellness. Renowned for promoting skin health, Helichrysum extends its benefits further. According to Science Direct, numerous studies have explored its potential for anti-infective, anti-inflammatory, and antihypertensive effects. This makes Helichrysum a compelling choice for those seeking holistic support for joint wellness.
Clove: Clove has a fascinating history that spans centuries and cultures. Native to the Molucca Islands in Indonesia, cloves are the aromatic flower buds of the evergreen tree Syzygium aromaticum. The spice became highly sought after in ancient times and has a rich history steeped in ancient traditions. Highly valued in traditional Asian medicine for its potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, clove oil, abundant in eugenol, historically served as a numbing agent with soothing qualities.
Practical Considerations and Advice 🤓🐎
Essential oils are not a silver bullet but a supportive measure for joint discomfort. Always introduce them gradually, observe your horse's reactions, and use them as a compliment to traditional veterinary care, not as a replacement. This practical balance ensures a holistic and effective approach to equine well-being.
Navigating joint discomfort with essential oils involves a nuanced approach. While these natural solutions can offer support, they are part of a broader strategy that includes regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate exercise, a balanced diet, good hoof care, good saddle fit, and nutraceuticals. By embracing this holistic perspective, you're not just addressing joint discomfort; you're cultivating a comprehensive approach to your horse's overall health.
Wondering where to source your 100% pure essential oils? Join me on an aromatic journey with Young Living™ Essential Oils. Experience the purity, potency, and sustainability of their premium oils, all backed by the Seed to Seal® promise. Dive into the world of authentic essential oils from Young Living—start your aromatic adventure today!
I've created a bundle of the 6 essential oils highlighted in this blog, plus a carrier oil so that you have everything you need to get started right away. Click HERE to grab these essential oils and kickstart your journey. (Note: This is an affiliate link, and I appreciate your support for my small business.)🌿✨
Ready to elevate your essential oils and horses expertise? Immerse yourself in the "Oily Horse Intro" beginner course, where you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of essential oils. Learn how, when, and why to use them effectively for your equine companion. Don't miss this chance to become a confident essential oil user. Click this link to enroll in "Oily Horse Intro" today. Your equine partner deserves the best, and you have the power to provide it. Take action now and let's embark on this transformative journey together, click HERE! 🐴🌿
Embracing the journey of caring for your horse is a remarkable experience filled with learning, companionship, and growth. As you delve into the world of equine care, you'll encounter various tools and approaches to support your horse's wellbeing. One such approach gaining popularity is the use of essential oils. In this informative guide, we'll unravel the potential of essential oils for your horse, providing insights into their applications, benefits, and how to get started. From relaxation to revitalization, essential oils can play a role in enhancing your horse's life in a natural and holistic way.
The Power of Essential Oils for Horses:
Essential oils are concentrated extracts derived from plants, each carrying a distinct aroma and a range of potential health benefits. Just as these oils have been used for human health, they can also offer positive effects for your horse. It's important to note that while essential oils can be a valuable addition to your horse care routine, they are not a substitute for professional veterinary care.
Choosing the Right Essential Oils:
Navigating the realm of essential oils for your horse requires careful consideration, especially given the lack of industry regulation. Quality is a cornerstone in this journey, as it directly influences the safety and effectiveness of the oils you use. When selecting essential oils, read your labels and choose those labeled as pure essential oil without fillers or additives. Source your essential oils from reputable companies known for their commitment to purity and premium products. The essential oil market's lack of regulation underscores the importance of scrutinizing your choices. By investing in trustworthy brands, you're safeguarding your horse's wellbeing.
Methods of Application:
Essential oils can be used with horses in various ways:
1. **Aromatically:** Aromatically means infusing the air with the aroma of essential oils. An easy way to do this is by wearing the essential oils as a personal perfume, essentially becoming a walking diffuser. Additionally, you can offer the bottle for your horse to smell, allowing them to experience the aroma. If they show interest, place a drop of oil in your hand, let them inhale it, and then rub the residual oil on your neck. I'm very fond of always saying we are half the equation with our horses and when we are calm and balanced, our horses are too.
2. **Topical Application:** Topical application involves applying essential oils directly to your horse's skin. Essential oils are highly concentrated and potent, which is why it's important to dilute them with a carrier oil. Dilution minimizes the risk of adverse reactions and ensures a safe experience for your horse. Essential oils are much more concentrated than the plant they're derived from, underscoring the importance of careful dilution. Diluting also lets you use the smallest amount necessary to get the job done over large surface areas.
My personal favorite carrier oil for dilution is fractionated coconut oil. This choice combines affordability, excellent absorbency, and the absence of a strong aroma. It's an ideal medium to blend with essential oils, as it remains in liquid form, even in cooler temperatures, makeing it easy to work with and apply.
3. **As a supplement:** Another approach involves incorporating essential oils as a supplement to your horse's diet. This can be easily achieved by adding them to a hay cube, mash, or supplement bucket. However, an essential consideration here is to carefully read the labels of your essential oils. Only use oils that are labeled for ingestion to ensure your horse's safety and wellbeing. This method offers a subtle yet effective way for your horse to benefit from the properties of essential oils. For instance, certain oils like frankincense are known for their potential immune system support. By including them in your horse's diet, you're providing a gentle boost to their overall wellness.
Keep in Mind:
As you embark on your journey with essential oils for your horse, it's natural to have some concerns, especially as a beginner. Here are some tips to help guide you:
1. **Safety:** Your horse's safety is paramount. Ensure that the essential oils you choose are of the highest quality, pure, and premium. Always dilute essential oils with a suitable carrier oil to minimize any chance of adverse reactions. Dilution not only makes the oils safer for your horse but also allows you to stretch their use over time.
2. **Amount:** Embrace the 'go low and slow' mantra. Opt for a lower concentration of essential oils but apply them more frequently, rather than using a large amount all at once. This gentle strategy allows your horse to experience the potential benefits of the oils without overburdening their system. Keep a keen eye on your horse's reactions, and adapt your approach based on your observations. This way, you can ensure that your horse's introduction to essential oils is gradual, comfortable, and aligned with their needs.
3. **Sensitivity:** Just like people, horses have unique sensitivities. Factors such as your horse's size, age, and overall health play a role in how they might react to essential oils. Pay close attention to any cues your horse gives and tailor your approach accordingly. Observing their reactions allows you to fine-tune your use of essential oils and create a positive experience that aligns with their individual needs.
By addressing these considerations, you're well on your way to incorporating essential oils into your horse care routine in a safe, effective, and tailored manner.
Getting Started with Essential Oils for Your Horse: 4 Easy Ways to Benefit
Introducing essential oils into your horse's routine doesn't need to be complicated. Here are four easy ways to use essential oils with your horse that can offer significant advantages for your equine companion.
1. **Calming:** If your horse tends to feel anxious or stressed, using a calming essential oil can work wonders. Choose from lavender, chamomile, cedarwood, or frankincense essential oils. Click HERE to head to my blog post all about specifically using essential oils to help calm your horse.
2. **Muscle Support:** After a workout, your horse's muscles deserve some extra care. Try making a peppermint brace (get the recipe HERE) or a muscle rub with peppermint, lavender, or copaiba essential oils. Dilute them with a carrier oil and create a soothing massage blend. Gently massage this mixture onto their muscles to promote relaxation and ease any tension they might be experiencing.
3. **Breathing:** Clear airways are essential for your horse's overall health. Rub a few drops of diluted eucalyptus or peppermint essential oils onto their chest to help maintain their respiratory wellness.
4. **Hoof Care:** Your horse's hooves play a vital role in their mobility. Incorporating essential oils like tea tree oil or cedarwood oil, properly diluted with a carrier oil, can contribute to their hoof health. Applying this blend to their hooves can help prevent minor issues and maintain their overall condition. Click HERE for my best essential oil recipes for horses hooves.
With these four easy approaches, you can start harnessing the power of essential oils to enhance your horse's quality of life. As you begin this journey, remember to introduce oils gradually, observe their reactions, and tailor your usage based on their needs.
Creating a Positive Experience:
Introducing essential oils to your horse can be an enjoyable experience for both of you. Here are some tips to ensure a positive introduction:
1. **Let Your Horse Choose:** Select an essential oil and present it to your horse. If it piques their interest, wonderful! If not, consider trying another one. Alternatively, you can offer a variety of essential oils to your horse and observe which one captures their preference. They might display extended curiosity towards the bottle or even attempt to gently nibble it.
2. **Observe Closely:** Pay attention to your horse's reactions. If they show signs of discomfort, discontinue use.
3. **Use Positive Reinforcement:** Associate the use of essential oils with positive experiences, such as treats or soothing grooming sessions. This will anchor in positive emotions with the essential oils.
Essential oils can be a valuable addition to your horse care routine, offering natural support for various aspects of your horse's wellbeing. Consult with a holistic veterinarian well trained in essential oils if you have concerns about incorporating essential oils, and be attentive to your horse's individual needs and reactions by starting low and slow. Discovering the potential of essential oils to enhance your horse's quality of life is actually quite simple and can be a delightful journey where you both enjoy the benefits together!
If you're eager to take the next leap and immerse yourself in a deeper understanding of essential oils and their application for your horse, I extend an invitation to join my mini course called 'Oily Horse Intro.' In this course, you'll gain comprehensive insights into 'The What, Why, Where, When, and How' of commencing your journey with essential oils and your equine companion. To access this course, simply click HERE.
As equestrians, we always strive to provide the best care for our horses, ensuring their well-being and peak performance. While there are numerous methods and supplements available to support their health and performance, one natural option that has gained popularity is the use of essential oils. Derived from plants, essential oils can offer a wide range of benefits for both humans and animals alike. In this blog post, we'll delve into the world of essential oils for equestrians, exploring how these natural remedies can enhance the performance and aid in the recovery of our beloved equine partners.
1. Understanding Essential Oils
Before diving into the specific benefits of essential oils for horses, let's start by understanding what essential oils are. Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that capture the beneficial properties of various botanicals. They are obtained through processes such as steam distillation or cold-press extraction, resulting in highly potent and aromatic substances. Did you know that it takes an average of 75 lemons to produce one 15 ml bottle of lemon essential oil! Each essential oil possesses unique chemical compounds that contribute to its specific wellness effects.
2. Promoting Relaxation and Reducing Tension
One of the key benefits of essential oils for horses is their ability to promote relaxation and reduce tension. Equestrian activities can be demanding and stressful for our equine companions, leading to tension and unease. Essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, cedarwood, and vetiver are known for their calming properties. By wearing these essential oils as a perfume, we can become a walking diffuser promoting calmness and relaxation. Horses are a partnership and we are half of the equation, so anything we can do to keep our emotions in check and on the positive side will support our horses. We can also diffuse these essential oils in the barn and even apply them topically. To dive more in depth on using essential oils to help calm you and your horse, click HERE.
3. Supporting Respiratory Health
Maintaining healthy respiratory function is crucial for the performance and overall well-being of horses. Essential oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, and tea tree have been studied for their possible expectorant and decongestant properties, making them an ideal choice to support the respiratory system. This study supports the inhalation of eucalyptus in "reducing airway inflammatory parameters". Inhalation of these essential oils may help maintain healthy airways and enhance breathing capacity, ultimately benefiting the horse's performance during intense workouts or competitions.
4. Enhancing Focus and Mental Clarity
Achieving optimal focus and mental clarity is vital for both the rider and the horse in equestrian disciplines. Certain essential oils, such as rosemary, lemon, and frankincense, are known for their ability to enhance cognitive function and promote alertness. These clinical trial results, published on PubMed.gov, found that "rosemary produced a significant enhancement of performance for overall quality of memory and secondary memory factors". By incorporating these essential oils into grooming routines or using them during training sessions, we can help our horses maintain focus and concentration. As riders, a sharp mind can help improve our performance and memory for dressage tests or obstacle courses! An easy way to incorporate this is by making a roller bottle. Then, you can roll a small amount onto your hand when grooming and offer it to your horse. Next, you can apply the leftovers to the back of your neck. For a step by step guide to making a roller ball, click HERE.
5. Supporting Muscle Recovery and Joint Health
The physical demands placed on horses during training and competition can lead to muscle soreness and joint discomfort. Essential oils like peppermint, copaiba, helichrysum, and wintergreen possess properties that can aid in muscle recovery and support joint health. Topical application of these oils, either through massage or liniments, can help alleviate discomfort, reduce tension, and support the horse's recovery process. This study, found on PubMed.gov, concluded "that the anti-inflammatory activity of Helichrysum italicum can be explained by multiple effects, including inflammatory enzyme inhibition, free-radical scavenging activity and corticoid-like effects."
This randomized controlled trial, on PubMed.gov, reports that "Peppermint and its active ingredient menthol have long been used for the treatment of various pain conditions including headache." One of my favorite things to do for my horse after a workout is to rinse them with a peppermint brace. This is cooling and refreshing and may soothe fatigued muscles. For the recipe and other easy ways to use peppermint oil, click HERE.
6. Ensuring Safety and Proper Usage
While essential oils offer numerous benefits, it is crucial to prioritize the safety of our horses. Here are a few important considerations when using essential oils:
a. Quality: Choose high-quality, pure and premium essential oils from reputable sources to ensure their potency and effectiveness. (If you're curious about where I source my essential oils, I highly recommend joining me on a journey with Young Living™. Their unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and purity through their Seed To Seal™ process makes them my top choice.)
b. Dilution: Essential oils should be properly diluted before application to avoid skin irritation or sensitization. Using carrier oils such as coconut oil or jojoba oil for dilution, as well as incorporating the essential oil into natural products, will minimize potential sensitivities. It's always best to operate with the "less is more" mentality and observe your horse closely for any negative reactions. If any are noticed, usually the application of more carrier oil is sufficient to reduce the reaction.
c. Patch Testing: Before applying any essential oil to a larger area, perform a patch test on a small area of the horse's skin to check for any adverse reactions.
d. Professional Guidance: Consult with a holistic veterinarian familiar with essential oils or equine aromatherapist for personalized advice and guidance on essential oil usage, especially if your horse has any pre-existing health conditions.
It is important to note:
When participating in competitive events, you will want to exercise caution when using essential oils topically, as certain governing bodies may impose regulations on their usage. To avoid potential issues, a simple and effective alternative is to harness the benefits of essential oils through inhalation only. Inhaling the aromatic compounds of essential oils, without topical use, will still positively impact mood, focus, and overall well-being. In fact, this study, found on PubMed.gov, found that "lavender oil inhalation decreases pain levels of children." Simply inhale from the bottle, allow your horse to inhale from the bottle, then you can wear topically as a perfume. When you are wearing the essential oil as a perfume, your horse will benefit from the aroma as well. You and your horse can experience the effects of essential oils without the need for direct skin application, ensuring compliance with regulations and promoting a healthy competitive spirit.
Incorporating essential oils into the equestrian routine can be a natural and effective way to enhance the performance and aid in the recovery of horses. From promoting relaxation to supporting respiratory health, enhancing focus, and aiding in muscle recovery, essential oils offer a wide range of benefits.
However, it is essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of our equine partners by using high-quality oils, proper dilution, and seeking professional guidance when needed.
By embracing the power of nature through essential oils, equestrians can create a harmonious and supportive environment for their horses, leading to improved performance, enhanced well-being, and a deeper connection between rider and horse.
Ready to take your knowledge of essential oils and horses to the next level? Dive deep into the world of essential oils and horses with my beginner course, "Oily Horse Intro." Gain a thorough understanding of what essential oils are, where and when to use them, how to apply them effectively, and why they are beneficial for your equine companion.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to become a confident and knowledgeable essential oil user.
Click this link today and enroll in "Oily Horse Intro" Your equine partner deserves the best, and you have the power to provide it. Take action now and embark on this transformative journey together!
In the world of equestrian sports, I believe the rider's emotional state can be just as crucial as the physical well-being of the horse. As riders, we strive to provide the best support and care for our equine partners, and one way to achieve this is by balancing our own emotions. Essential oils offer a natural and effective means to harmonize our emotional well-being, allowing us to be at our best when supporting our horses. In this blog post, let's explore the power of using essential oils to help balance our emotions and maintain optimal mental health when we are at the barn. We are half the equation and when we are balanced, it helps our horses be balanced!
First lets understand what essential oils are and why we can use them to affect our emotions.
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that capture the beneficial properties of various botanicals. They are obtained through processes such as steam distillation or cold-press extraction, resulting in highly potent and aromatic substances. Each essential oil possesses unique chemical compounds that contribute to its specific aroma and wellness effects.
Plants produce essential oils as a defense mechanism and to support their own well-being. Essential oils are found in various parts of plants, including leaves, flowers, bark, and roots. These aromatic compounds serve multiple purposes for plants, such as attracting pollinators, repelling pests and pathogens, and combating environmental stressors. Essential oils can deter insects and herbivores with their strong scents, preventing damage to plant tissues and ensuring survival. Additionally, these oils can inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms and provide protection against fungal or bacterial infections. In some cases, essential oils play a role in plant communication, allowing them to send signals to neighboring plants or attract beneficial organisms.
What Does This Mean For Us?!
The fact that plants produce essential oils as a defense mechanism and for their own well-being holds great significance for us as humans. Through our understanding and utilization of these natural aromatic compounds, we can harness their benefits for our own well-being and support. Just as essential oils serve plants, they can offer similar advantages to us.
Why Do Essential Oils Affect Our Emotions?
The sense of smell is intricately connected to our emotions and memories. When we inhale the aroma of essential oils, the molecules stimulate the olfactory system, which is directly linked to the brain's limbic system—the center of emotions and memories. This direct connection allows essential oils to have a profound impact on our emotional state. Each essential oil contains unique chemical compounds that can trigger specific emotional responses. For example, the scent of lavender is known for its calming and relaxing properties, while citrus oils like grapefruit and lemon are uplifting and energizing. By inhaling the aroma of these oils, we can activate neurotransmitters and receptors in the brain, promoting the release of certain chemicals that help balance our emotions. This process provides a natural and non-invasive way to influence our emotional well-being, allowing us to create a positive and supportive environment for ourselves and our equine partners.
The Role Of Emotions In Equestrian Performance
Emotions have a profound impact on our ability to connect with and guide our horses. Stress, Anxiety, tension, or distraction can hinder our communication and negatively affect our performance. It can make our bodies tight and unable to perform their best. Conversely, a calm and focused mindset can promote trust, confidence, and synchronization with our equine partners. Have you ever had a riding lesson and your instructor reminded you to breathe, and then magically everything got better, I have! Once you recognize the significance of your emotions and how they affect your horse when you interact with them, you can use an essential oil as a tool to help with emotional balance.
Ways We Can Use Essential Oils As Riders
There are various ways to enjoy the aromatic benefits of essential oils, allowing you to incorporate them seamlessly into your barn routine. One simple method is inhaling the aroma directly from the bottle, which can provide an immediate sensory experience and mood boost. Alternatively, you can create your own oil blend by adding essential oils to a roller ball and applying it to pulse points to wear as a perfume.
This is one of the safest and best ways to use essential oils with horses and even dogs, as you become a walking diffuser. You dont need to apply the essential oil to your skin for it to be effective for emotional support for your mind and body. To read more about that-click HERE
For a continuous aromatic experience, diffuser jewelry, such as necklaces or bracelets designed with absorbent materials, can be a stylish and effective option. You can add a drop of your favorite essential oil or blend essential oils together for a powerful aroma. These methods allow you to fully embrace the aromatherapy benefits of essential oils and carry their uplifting scents with you throughout the day.
Roller Ball Recipes For:
1. Promoting Tension Relief
Tension can manifest in both riders and horses, impeding performance and creating a stressful environment. To alleviate tension, essential oils such as grapefruit, lavender, Roman chamomile, and cedarwood, can be utilized. A roller ball recipe for a tension relief blend could include:
10 drops of Lavender essential oil
5 drops of Roman chamomile essential oil
5 drops of Frankincense essential oil
Add the essential oils to a 10ml roller bottle, then fill the rest with a carrier oil of your choice (such as fractionated coconut oil or jojoba oil).
Apply this blend to the pulse points or inhale it before riding to promote relaxation, ease muscle tension, and create a calmer atmosphere for both rider and horse.
2. Cultivating Calmness
Maintaining a sense of calmness is essential for riders to provide steady guidance and support. Essential oils such as cedarwood, frankincense, myrrh, and vetiver are known for their calming properties. For a calming blend, try:
10 drops of Cedarwood
5 drops of Frankincense
5 drops of Vetiver
Add the essential oils to a 10ml roller bottle, then fill the rest with a carrier oil of your choice (such as fractionated coconut oil or jojoba oil).
Apply this blend to the wrists and wear it as a perfume to promote a peaceful and centered state of mind.
3. Building Courage and Confidence
Fear and lack of confidence can hinder riders from fully realizing their potential. Essential oils such as Spruce, Fir, Juniper, and ylang-ylang can help boost courage and self-assurance. To create a courage-enhancing blend:
10 drops of Spruce essential oil
5 drops of Juniper essential oil
5 drops of Ylang Ylang essential oil
Add the essential oils to a 10ml roller bottle, then fill the rest with a carrier oil of your choice (such as fractionated coconut oil or jojoba oil).
Apply this blend to the solar plexus area or inhale it deeply before riding to instill a sense of courage, boldness, and assertiveness.
4. Enhancing Focus and Concentration
Focus and concentration are vital for clear communication and effective riding. Essential oils such as rosemary, lemon, and peppermint can help sharpen mental clarity and enhance focus.
10 drops of Rosemary essential oil
5 drops of Peppermint essential oil
5 drops of Lemon essential oil
Add the essential oils to a 10ml roller bottle, then fill the rest with a carrier oil of your choice (such as fractionated coconut oil or jojoba oil).
Apply this blend to the back of your neck after inhaling deeply to stimulate alertness, improve concentration, and promote mental acuity.
5. Managing Frustration and Impatience
Equestrian pursuits often come with challenges and setbacks, leading to frustration and impatience. Or we can simply be in an impatient mood after waiting all day to get to the barn. Essential oils such as clary sage, juniper, and sandalwood possess soothing properties to aid in frustration management. To create a blend for frustration relief:
10 drops of Clary Sage essential oil
5 drops of Juniper essential oil
5 drops of Sandalwood essential oil
Add the essential oils to a 10ml roller bottle, then fill the rest with a carrier oil of your choice (such as fractionated coconut oil or jojoba oil).
Apply this blend to the chest and inhale it deeply to promote emotional balance, release tension, and restore a positive outlook.
Emotional balance is a vital aspect of equestrian performance that I feel is often overlooked, and essential oils provide a natural and effective means to help achieve this balance. By utilizing essential oils and blends for tension relief, calmness, courage, focus, and frustration management, riders can enhance their emotional well-being and support their horses more effectively.
You don't have to create a blend either...simply pick one of the essential oils, open the bottle, inhale deeply and let your horse inhale deeply before you get on or work with your horse! Blends are fun to create and use throughout the day...but don't let creating a blend stop you from harnessing the power of essential oils at the barn!
You can also try diffusing a calming essential oil blend for a half hour before you head for the barn to let the stress of the day melt away from your body. This could be all it takes to work thru any negative emotions that might affect your time with your horse before they become a problem.
Discovering the potential of essential oils to foster a profound bond with our equine companions is a delightful and gratifying experience. As we harmonize on an emotional level, the journey towards a joyful and fulfilling partnership with our horses unveils itself effortlessly and with great enjoyment.
As an essential oil enthusiast who has experienced the transformative benefits firsthand, I invite you to join me in exploring the world of essential oils with Young Living. I personally recommend Young Living for their unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and purity through their Seed To Seal™ process. Discover the wide range of high-quality essential oils and oil-infused products they offer by clicking HERE and visiting their website. You'll find essential oils and blends perfect for equestrians, supporting your journey towards enhanced well-being for both you and your horse. Embrace the power of nature and unlock the potential of essential oils with Young Living today. Let's embark on this aromatic adventure together! (This is an affiliate link and I earn a small commission from your order at no cost to you. Thanks for supporting my small business! I'm so excited to help you get started, that I'll connect with you once you order and send you something special!)
As horse owners, we know how irritating and bothersome horse flies can be to our equine companions. These pesky insects not only cause discomfort to horses but can also transmit diseases. While there are numerous chemical-laden fly sprays available in stores, many of us prefer to use natural alternatives to avoid exposing our horses to potentially harmful chemicals. One such natural solution is making our own essential oil horse fly spray. In this blog, let's dive into why you might want to choose a DIY natural fly spray over a store-bought chemical one, how to make a fly spray using essential oils (plus my favorite fly spray recipes), and why it takes a comprehensive approach when using natural fly deterrents to get the most out of your fly program.
Why Choose a DIY Natural Fly Spray?
There are several compelling reasons why you might want to make your own homemade fly spray as opposed to using a store-bought chemical one. Here are a few:
- Avoiding Harmful Chemicals: Commercial fly sprays often contain chemicals such as pyrethroids, permethrin, and DEET, which can be toxic to horses, other animals, and the environment. By making your own fly spray with essential oils, you have control over the ingredients and can avoid using products with harmful chemicals. If you can smell it when you spray it, it's affecting you!
- Customization: Making your own fly spray allows you to customize the scent and potency according to your horse's needs and preferences. You can also experiment with different essential oil combinations to find what works best for your horse.
- Cost-effective: DIY fly sprays can be more cost-effective in the long run compared to commercial options, and essential oils can also be used for various purposes other than making fly spray.
- Environmentally-friendly: Natural fly sprays are typically biodegradable and do not contribute to environmental pollution, making them a more eco-friendly choice compared to chemical-laden options.
Do homemade equine fly sprays really work?
Yes and no! Essential oils have been studied as insect repellants, a quick search on PubMed lists 833 results, however they aren’t going to work like a chemical laden spray. Chemical fly sprays not only have ingredients in them to repel insects but also to kill insects and last for days on your horse. Essential oil sprays work to repel insects and need applied more frequently. It takes a comprehensive approach to use a natural fly repellant for horses.
A Comprehensive Approach
If you're going to go 'au naturel'...a comprehensive approach works best.
- Cleanliness: Keep your horses environment as clean as possible, removing manure, wet bedding, and any decaying organic matter where flies tend to breed. A clean environment will discourage fly infestations.
- Fly Sheets and Masks: Consider using fly sheets and masks to provide an extra layer of protection for your horse. These garments help shield your horse's body and face from flies, reducing their annoyance and potential bites.
- Fly Traps: Set up fly traps in and around the stable area to capture and control fly populations. Place them strategically in areas where flies are most active, but far enough away that your'e not attracting flys to your horse-haha.
- Natural Fly Predators: Give them a try, I use them and definitely think they make a difference.
- Fans and Ventilation: Install fans or ensure proper ventilation in the stable to create airflow. Flying insects dislike breezy environments, making it less inviting for them to settle.
- Avoid Peak Fly Activity: Plan your rides and activities during times of the day when flies are less active, typically early morning or late evening. This reduces the annoyance and distraction caused by flies.
- Regular Grooming: Regularly groom your horse to remove any debris or dirt that might attract flies. Use a soft brush or grooming mitt to keep your horse's coat clean and fly-free. It also works better to apply a natural repellant to a clean coat and then brush it in for maximum effectiveness.
By combining these comprehensive fly management tips with the use of your essential oil fly spray, you'll maximize your fly control.
Effective Essential Oils for Flies
Certain essential oils possess natural repelling properties, making them ideal candidates for homemade fly sprays. Here are some key essential oils, studied for their effectiveness in deterring flies and other insects, that can be combined in various ways to create an effective homemade fly spray.
- Lemongrass-a refreshing oil with a bright grassy citrus scent
- Citronella oil-commonly used in outdoor sprays
- Tea Tree-a popular oil for its cleansing and purifying properties
- Peppermint-known for its cooling and invigorating properties
- Thyme-an oil often used to promote overall wellness with a strong herbal scent
- Rosemary-a herbaceous oil with a woodsy aroma
- Geranium-a floral oil often used in skincare
- Cedarwood-a warm and grounding aroma
- Eucalyptus oil-a fresh and medicinal scent often used in respiratory support
In addition to the essential oils and water base, you'll want to include some additional ingredients to help the essential oils incorporate into the mix. You can choose either a carrier oil (like fractionated coconut oil) or vodka, depending on your preference. A carrier oil not only helps blend the essential oils with the water but also provides a longer-lasting effect on the horse's coat. However, keep in mind that carrier oils may attract dust. On the other hand, vodka can also be used as a mixing agent and acts as a natural preservative. Another option to consider is adding a splash of apple cider vinegar, which can enhance the repellent properties of the spray.
You'll want to experiment and see what works best. That's also why I give a list of oils, I've had success with several different combinations, but also find that what works in the beginning of the summer doesn't work as well as the end, and sometimes location makes a difference. I use a different mix at my house vs. across town where I board a few of my horses. To get you started here are my 3 favorite essential oil recipes so far that I've used:
20 drops lemongrass essential oil
20 drops citronella essential oil
20 drops peppermint essential oil
20 drops tea tree essential oil
20 drops citronella essential oil
20 drops thyme essential oil
20 drops rosemary essential oil
20 drops geranium essential oil
20 drops cedarwood essential oil
20 drops eucalyptus essential oil
20 drops peppermint essential oil
20 drops rosemary essential oil
How to Make Essential Oil Horse Fly Spray
Now that we know which essential oils can be helpful for bugs, let's learn how to make a homemade horse fly spray using these oils. Here's a simple homemade fly spray base recipe:
Ingredients:
- 16 ounce spray bottle-high quality chemically resistant PET or HDPE plastic
- distilled or purified water (you can use tap but I like to use water that has the impurities removed-your mix will last longer too, if you're using it up quickly, that's not so important)
- 2 tablespoons of a carrier oil (such as fractionated coconut oil) or other emulsifiers like witch hazel or vodka
- 20 drops of 4 different essential oils from the list above (a combination of lemongrass, citronella, tea tree, peppermint, thyme, rosemary, geranium, cedarwood, and eucalyptus)(80 drops total)
- 1 tablespoon of Castile soap (another emulsifier)( you can also use an all natural dish soap, but I like Castile soap due to its mildness)
Instructions:
- Start by adding the carrier oil to the spray bottle. The carrier oil helps the essential oils disperse evenly in the water and stay on the coat longer.
- Add around 80 drops total of your chosen essential oils to the spray bottle. You can adjust the number of drops based on your preference and observations you make, as well as the size, age, health, and sensitivities of your horse.
- Add 1 tablespoon of Castile soap to the spray bottle. Castile soap acts as an emulsifier, helping to mix the oil and water-based ingredients.
- Shake the spray bottle well to ensure all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
Your homemade fly spray is now ready to use!
Why Use an Emulsifier?
You may wonder why carrier oils and emulsifiers like Castile soap are necessary in a homemade fly spray. The reason is that essential oils are not water-soluble, which means they do not mix well with water alone. When you spray a mixture of water and essential oils on your horse, the essential oils may separate from the water, resulting in uneven application and reduced effectiveness. An emulsifier helps to create a stable solution by dispersing the essential oils evenly in the water, ensuring that the fly spray is more effective and more evenly applied.
Another emulsifier that I like to use in place of Castile soap is apple cider vinegar. This emulsifier also helps to mix the oil and water-based ingredients and can provide additional benefits. For example, apple cider vinegar has properties that can be helpful for skin.
Additional emulsifiers that you can use are: vodka, which can act as a preservative; witch hazel, which has astringent properties; and fractionated coconut oil, great for a skin moisturizer. You can choose the emulsifier that best fits your preference and the needs of your horse as well as combine them.
How to Use Essential Oil Horse Fly Spray for Best Results
To get the best results from your homemade essential oil horse fly spray, here are some tips for proper application:
- Shake well before use: Essential oils may separate from the water-based solution over time, so it's important to shake the spray bottle well before each use to ensure that the ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Avoid spraying near eyes, nose, and mouth: Just like with any other fly spray, it's important to avoid spraying the solution near your horse's eyes, nose, and mouth and to instead, apply it via mitt, brush, or rag and wipe on.
- Spray evenly on the coat: Spray the solution evenly on your horse's coat, focusing on areas where flies and other insects are most likely to land, such as the neck, chest, belly, and legs. Use a cloth or a brush to wipe the solution into your horse's coat for better coverage.
- Reapply as often as needed based on the activity level and environmental conditions your horse is exposed to. Keep an eye out for anything that might indicate a sensitivity to what you are using. For example- dry skin, flaky skin, skin scurf, bumps, redness, irritation, itching or rubbing. If this is noted, try decreasing the essential oils and/or increasing the emulsifier, as well as applying less often. You may need to swap out the essential oils used as well.
- Ideally, you'll want to store your mix in a cool, dark place: Essential oils are sensitive to light and heat, which can cause them to degrade and lose their effectiveness. This will help preserve the potency of the essential oils.
Conclusion
Creating your own DIY fly spray provides a natural and efficient method to assist your horse in combating outdoor pests, all without relying on harsh chemicals. With a homemade fly spray, you gain authority over the ingredients and can tailor the spray to cater specifically to your horse's requirements. You also don't need to wear a gas mask when you spray it at the barn! Enjoy embracing a holistic and eco-friendly approach to the fly season using essential oils!
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