Cinnamon is a popular spice that is often used to flavor and aromatize food. But did you know that it can also be used to benefit horses? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the many ways in which cinnamon can be beneficial to horses and why it is becoming increasingly popular among horse owners.

What Is Cinnamon?

Cinnamon is a spice made from the inner bark of several species of trees in the genus Cinnamomum. It has been used in traditional medicine and cooking for thousands of years, and is one of the oldest known spices. Cinnamon is sold in a variety of forms, including ground, sticks, and oil.

Health Benefits of Cinnamon for Horses

A Natural Antioxidant

Cinnamon is a powerful antioxidant, which means it can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. This can be beneficial to horses, as free radicals can cause oxidative stress and lead to inflammation, which can lead to a variety of health issues.

Digestive Aid

Cinnamon can also be beneficial for horses’ digestive health. It can help reduce gas and bloating, and can also help prevent and treat stomach ulcers. Cinnamon is believed to stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, which can help break down food more efficiently.

Immune System Booster

Cinnamon is also a great immune system booster for horses. It can help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system, which can help horses fight off infections and illnesses.

Appetite Stimulant

Cinnamon can also be used to stimulate appetite in horses. It is believed to trigger the release of hormones that can stimulate hunger, which can be beneficial for horses that are picky eaters or have a poor appetite.

How To Use Cinnamon For Horses

In Feed

Cinnamon can be added to horse feed to provide the many health benefits mentioned above. It can be added in ground form or as sticks, and can be mixed in with the feed or sprinkled on top. It is important to be aware that too much cinnamon can be dangerous, so it is best to start with a small amount and adjust as needed.

In Treats

Cinnamon can also be added to treats for horses. It can be mixed into homemade treats such as oats, carrots, and apples, or can be added to store-bought treats.

In Herbal Remedies

Cinnamon can also be used in herbal remedies to help treat a variety of health issues. For example, it can be used to treat digestive issues, inflammation, and even respiratory issues.

Side Effects of Cinnamon for Horses

While cinnamon can provide many benefits for horses, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects. Cinnamon can be toxic if ingested in large amounts, so it is important to be careful when adding it to feed or treats. It can also cause irritation to the skin and eyes, so it is important to wear gloves and safety goggles when handling it.

Best Practices for Using Cinnamon for Horses

Dos

Start slow: Start with a small amount of cinnamon and gradually increase as needed.
Mix in feed: Mix cinnamon into the regular feed or sprinkle on top.
Wear safety gear: Wear gloves and safety goggles when handling cinnamon.

Don’ts

Exceed recommended amounts: Too much cinnamon can be dangerous, so be sure to follow the recommended amounts.
Mix with other spices: Cinnamon should not be mixed with other spices as this could result in an unsafe concentration of spices.
Give to foals: Cinnamon should not be given to foals as their digestive systems are not mature enough to handle it.

Conclusion

Cinnamon can be a great addition to a horse’s diet, as it can provide numerous health benefits. It can be used to reduce inflammation and boost the immune system, as well as stimulate appetite and aid in digestion. However, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects and to use it safely and responsibly.