As a horse owner, you probably enjoy spending time with your equine friend and giving them all the extra care and attention you have. After all, they have done so much for you, why not return the favor?
Just as we spoil our kids from time to time we want to do the same for our pets. Pampering them is a good way to show our love and care.
Essential oils have become an important part of daily life. I enjoy sharing many of the therapeutic benefits of these oils and use them regularly in creating a special care routine for my horse.
Here are just a few of my favorite luxurious essential oil blends perfect for pampering your horse:
Refreshing Spray
Combine 5-7 drops each of these essential oils in a 32oz spray bottle then fill with water.
Peppermint (flies hate peppermint)
Melaleuca (Tea Tree)
Lemongrass
Lavender
Coconut Coat Conditioner
Combine the following ingredients in a 16oz spray bottle and shake well before using.
2 Tbsp Fractionated Coconut Oil (traditional coconut oil will not work)
1 tsp Witch Hazel
2 drops Chamomile Essential Oil
2 drops Lavender Essential Oil
1 drop Rosemary Oil
2 cups Distilled Water
Sore Horse Muscle Wash
Add the following essential oils to 3/4 cup of Epsom Salt, then dissolve into one bucket of warm water before applying.
10 drops Juniper
5 drops Ginger
5 drops Wintergreen
2 drops Ylang Ylang
Universal Equine Massage Oil
Combine a couple drops each of Lavender and Marjoram essential oil to a carrier Oil such as sunflower or sweet almond oil and massage. (Never massage a swollen area of the horse. Massage around until swelling subsides.)
Healthy Breathing
To making every breath count, simply spray over chest and lung areas.
20 drops Eucalyptus
10 drops Peppermint
10 drops Cardamom
5 drops Melaleuca (Tea Tree)
Hoof Ointment
Combine essential oils with solid coconut oil, using a hand mixer for a whipped consistency. Massage into hooves.
5-10 drops Rosemary
5-10 drops Melaleuca (Tea Tree)
Optional: 3 drops Sandalwood or Cedarwood
Aromatic Anxiety Relief: Your horse can benefit from aromatherapy fairly easy. Simply dilute 2 drops each of Lavender and Valerian essential oils in your hand and allow them to inhale the scent. If they turn away it is a no-go, otherwise dab onto the forehead to quiet nervous tension or anxiety.
Remember, horses may be more sensitive to pure oils and it’s important to start out slowly. Always let them smell the oil first and see how they respond. The more you learn about the properties of the oils the more you’ll be able to offer them to your equine friend for healing and comfort and pampering in the days to come.