Homeopathy

Homeopathy is a system of medicine founded in the late 1700's by Samuel Hahnemann. Hahnemann was the first person to purposely utilize this method of treating disease. It follows the general idea that "like cures like," and the remedies used are under FDA regulations. These remedies are made by diluting each substance many times and agitating, or "successing" the solution between dilutions.

There are disadvantages as well as advantages of using Homeopathy in first aid. The disadvantages include - response may be less, dramatic compared to conventional medicine, action is very specific so several remedies may have to be tried before response is actually seen, and no action if remedy is not selected carefully. The advantages include - no side effects, inexpensive, will not mask symtoms, it's given orally - no injections and it stimulates the immune system.

METHODS TO ADMINISTER REMEDIES
Homepathic remedies are given internally in extremely small doses. Hahnemann discovered by putting the remedy through a series of dilution, and agitations he was able to make it more potent in action each time; therefore, the diluted medicine is said to be in a potency.

A commonly used potency is 30c: the original substance has been diluted 1 drop to 100 drops and agitated; then 1 drop of this mixture is diluted in 100 drops; this process continues 30 times. The final solution is absorbed by small sugar globules which are taken orally. When giving remedies to horses, dissolve 4-5 pellets in 12cc spring or distilled water and squirt it into the horses mouth with a syringe. Most horses take the medicine very willingly. The medicine is absorbed by the mucous membranes and does not need to be swallowed.
In severe acute conditions the medicines / remedies can be given every 15 minutes for up to 4 doses, or until a response is seen. Less severe / acute conditions require less frequent dosage, anywhere from 1 to 24 hours apart. If 4 doses of the remedy have not brought a response, then it is probably not going to act. The medication is discontinued as soon as the animal is obviously moving toward recovery.

HOMEPATHIC REMEDIES
Aconite - Monkshood: A beautiful but poisonous plant that grows on the moutains of France, Switzerland, and Germany. The primary indication for Aconite is acute, violent fever and inflammation. Aconite would not be considered adter pathological changes have occured. Acute influenza is a classic Aconite case. Complaints often come on after exposure to dry cold weather, but extreme heat may also bring on symptoms. Anterior enteritis type colic may be treated in it's early stage with Aconite. The mental state is one of fear and anguish. This remedy is excellent for horses that panic when asked to perform such tasks as trailer loading, clipping, or entering a show ring. Aconite would not be the choice for the horse that just doesn't want to do something.
Apis - Honeybee: The typical reaction to a bee sting gives the picture of Apis. Swelling, edema, soreness, intolerance of heat and the slightest touch are classic Apis symptoms. Apis acts on the lining of tissues so serious effusions may be seen. Apis is most often used for allergic reactions with puffy type swelling. It can be life saving in an acute anaphylactic type reaction. Another use for Apis would be joint swelling with heat, fluid effusion and pain. In mares Apis may be used for ovarian inflammation and cyst formation, especially when on the right side. Apis patients are less thirsty in most cases, but may occasionally show extreme thirst.

Arnica - Leopard's Bane: A flowering herb that is routinely used by Herbalists and Homeopaths. It is applied topically in tincture form for injuries, but homeopathic preparation allows it in internal use. Arnica is a remedy that no household should be without. It is used primarily for muscle soreness and bruises. It should be the first remedy given for all injuries, then other remedies can be given based on the individuals healing response. Arnica should also be considered for any symptoms that develop post injury. Head injuries are notorious for causing persistent symptoms long after the original injury appeared healed. Septic conditions may also respond to Arnica.

Calendula - Marigold: Can be used internally, but more often is applied externally in lotion, or ointment form to open wounds to repel insects and speed healing.

Chamomilla - Chamomile: Another favorite of Herbalists and Homeopaths, Chamomilla is most famous for it's calming effects. Mothers depend on Chamomile to relieve teething, earache, and colic pains in children. In horses Chamomilla is primarily a colic remedy. Spasmodic, cramping pains are typical. Animals that are overly sensitive to pain will be most likely to respond to Chamomilla. It may also be helpful before any anxiety producing event.
Colchicum - Meadow Saffron: Another toxic plant with medicinal properties, Colchicum is primarily used for joint stiffness. It is also an excellent remedy for colic in horses. These horses will be very bloated with high pitched gas sounds heard when listening over either flank. It is best used in conjunction with Nux Vomica as many gas colic cases also have an impaction of the intestine. The horses may pass a small amount of manure covered with mucus.

Hypericum - St. John's Wort: Another popular herb, Hypericum is a great remedy for injuries to nerves. Excessive pain is a symptom of injuries needing Hypericum. It is good for horses that set back and fall on the base of their tails. Externally it is used in lotion form to ease the pain of damaged nerves such as after a nail puncture in the hoof.

Pulsitilla - Wind Flower: Pulsitilla is primarily a female remedy. As a general rule these patients have a wonderful gentle disposition. They love attention and reports have shows how affectionate they are. However, Pulsitilla can have it's peevish side, particularly mares that change their personalities dramatically when they come in heat. Pulsitilla is a great remedy for summer colds in horses. Discharge are thick, bland, and yellowish green. Pulsitilla patients dislike heat, are less thirsty, and prefer to be outdoors.

Silicea - Pure Flint: Silicea is indicated in ailments secondary to defective nutrition. It will often help with the assimilation of minerals. Poor quality, dry cracked hooves are a primary indicator in horses. A tendency toward abscess formation also suggest Silicea. Scarring after injury and ill effects of vaccination also make Silicea a choice. It is a deep acting remedy and should be considered for many chronic cases. In addition to the previous symptoms the constitutional Silicea may be sensitive to heat yet chilly, have swollen glands, and have an excessive dislike for hypodermic injections.

Disclaimer: Naturally Equine does not make any medical or veterinarian claims to any of the remedies listed on this site. The remedies are well known worldwide and are listed on this site for informational purposes only.