10 Best Herbs for Dog Health

In today's world, our dogs can suffer from various health problems, such as anxiety, stress, allergies, and behavioral problems. They are open to some of the diseases that humans suffer from, including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and epilepsy, as well as some other dog-related diseases such as ticks, fleas, mites, and anal glands problems. Herbs are a safe, highly effective, and gentle way to treat and prevent most of these illnesses and emotional problems in dogs. In this article, we will take a look at the 10 best herbs for dog health.

Using herbs as natural remedies for dogs can well soothe these problems without the negative side effects that some medications can produce. Dogs have been seeking out their own herbs in the wild before they became domesticated. These herbs are now available as natural remedies to provide safe and highly effective treatments for almost all of your dog's health requirements. The addition of herbs to your dog’s diet can have a great impact on their health. So, the following are the best herbs for dog health.

1. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

This is one of my favorites; it is easy to add to your dog’s food, it smells good, and tastes delicious. Basil is easy to grow and it suits most soils type with a pH of 5.1 to 8.5. A powerful antioxidant, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties. Basil herb smells good and tastes delicious. However, its health benefits far outweigh its delicious taste. It contains a lot of vitamins such as vitamin A, B6, C, E, and K. It is rich in potassium and has more calcium than dairy products. You can be sure that your dog will lack nothing if he receives regular doses of this great plant.

2. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

If your dog has digestive problems, dandelion can be a great herb to consider. The flower can be used for its antioxidant properties and can improve a dog’s immune system. It also contains a high percentage of lecithin. Dandelion leaves are full of potassium. It stimulates the appetite and aids digestion as well as kidney function. Dandelion is the perfect choice for dogs with chronic indigestion or gas. The leaves are a rich source of vitamin A and the root is an excellent source of inulin, which stimulates the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestinal tract. It also contains vitamins C, E, and K, including, fiber, calcium, folate, magnesium, iron, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, and silicon.

3. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)

Parsley is one of the most popular herbs in the world and the most concentrated food source. It is often used to soothe the stomach or added to dog treats as a breath freshener. Parsley has a long history of use with dogs, adding this herb to your dog’s food is a reliable way to give him a little boost in nutrition. Parsley is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, folate, iron, and a variety of minerals, and volatile oils, together with myristin, which is believed to prevent tumor formation, especially in the lungs.

4. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Turmeric is a great antioxidant that can slow down aging, degeneration, and increase long life. Oxidative stress builds up in dogs over time can cause damage to cells, proteins, and DNA in their body. Turmeric is a perennial herb that belongs to the ginger family and is popular for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This herb contains more antioxidant properties than vitamin E, and many studies have supported its ability to prevent cancer, increase bile production and flow, as well as protecting the stomach and liver. It is an ideal herb to sprinkle on your dog's food.

5. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Thyme is a good digestive aid and has antibacterial properties. It is good for the skin; it supports digestive health and brain function. Thyme is a useful antispasmodic and carminative agent. It is used in cases of colitis, irritable bowel, and dyspepsia. It helps to expel parasites, particularly hookworms. You can mix the dried or fresh thyme into your dog's food, one teaspoon per pound of food fed. It contains vitamin K, manganese, calcium, iron, and dietary fiber. The main active ingredient is thymol, which helps prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. This herb also contains a variety of flavonoids that increase its antioxidant properties.

6. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Catnip is an herbal plant in the mint family that can cause drowsiness. Your dog can smell the leaves and feel a little sleepy. But they can also look completely indifferent. Although your dogs won't react to catnip the way cats do, the herb also offers benefits for dogs.  Catnip contains iron, chromium, manganese, selenium, potassium, and other nutrients, which include vitamins A and C. It is also known to support the digestive system. Catnip tea helps break down fats and also stimulates bile flow. Sprinkle two teaspoons of dried catnip on your dog's food or soak four teaspoons of fresh catnip leaves in his drinking water.

7. Sage (Salvia officinalis)

Sage is not like some herbs that can cause digestive disorders in large doses. It has been recognized by the ASPCA as non-toxic to dogs. Sage is an herb that belongs to the mint family and is a popular spice all over the world. It has antimicrobial properties. It is an excellent herb for skin infections and the digestive system. It is safe to use in your dog's food, adding sage to your dog's food can help treat inflammation, allergies, arthritis, and indigestion. The best way to give your dog is to mix fresh or dried leaves in your dog’s food. It is a great herb for infections, particularly in the upper respiratory tract and throat.

8. Cayenne (Capsicum annuum)

Cayenne has some amazingly effective applications for your furry pal. It is a safe herb when used correctly, can help speed up blood flow. Cayenne has a lot of therapeutic benefits for dogs. A natural remedy that has been used for years, a little amount of Cayenne in your dog food is enough to give its positive effects. Cayenne also helps eliminate bloating and intestinal gas by stimulating the intestinal tract to allow the body a healthy elimination of waste. Don’t give Cayenne to dogs with kidney or urinary tract problems, inflammatory digestive diseases, or dogs with sensitive stomachs.

9. Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

This herb is often used for cooking. Its spicy aroma whets our appetite and its essence adds flavor to the food. Oregano is an excellent ingredient in dog food. Some dog foods contain oregano, which answers the question of whether it is good for your dogs or not. In fact, it is. Oregano has many benefits that contribute to your dog's health. Because it is rich in antioxidants, it provides great support to a dog’s immune system.

It also has antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties that help prevent the spread of bacteria and other viruses. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help your dogs reduce the risk of inflammatory diseases such as osteoporosis. You are reducing your dog's risk of developing a bacterial infection by giving him oregano. It is a natural detoxifying herb that works well as a treatment or daily toner.

10. Chamomile (Matricaria recuita)

This herb has been used for years in herbal medicine to calm an upset stomach, relieve stress, and even heal wounds. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is considered a soothing herb, meaning it can be used to ease eye problems in dogs. It is also a great herb for cramps, gas, and stress-induced colitis, as well as general anxiety or nervousness. Like many other herbal remedies, there have been limited studies on chamomile for dogs. Though, there is some anecdotal evidence that chamomile can help treat digestive problems, anxiety, and skin conditions, and other health problems in dogs.

Now that you have known the 10 best herbs fordog health, it is best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the proper dosage before you give your furry pals any herbs. Giving these herbs to your dog can be a bit difficult, although many dogs enjoy the new flavors on their diet. If you have a fussy puppy, you can try mixing the herbs with coconut oil or olive for it to form a paste-like texture.

As for doses, small dog breeds require a very little pinch of herb. The amount increases slowly with your dog's weight; a medium-sized dog needs about a teaspoon of herbs per meal, and a giant dog breed needs a tablespoon per meal. Always, introduce new foods or herbs slowly to your dog and consult the vet immediately if you notice any strange developing. Check Amazon for these herbs and more.