Last Updated on March 2, 2022 by Allison Price
Clay poultices can be used to treat a wide range of horse ailments. Find out how you can customize these therapeutic fusions with natural ingredients to meet your horse’s specific needs.
Clay has been used for healing since 60 BC when it was first used by the Romans for their intestinal problems. Galen, a famed Greek doctor, was the first person to use clay to treat sick or injured animals. Clay is used in poultices. These can be made at home or in the barn to benefit your horse companions. You can make your own clay poultices to ensure the highest quality ingredients and allow you to tailor the blend for your horse. This article will outline some of the benefits of clay poultices. (See sidebar, page xx). It also explains how to make your own.
How to make your clay poultice
1. Get the ingredients
It is important to remember that not all clays can be 100% pure. You should ensure that you source ingredients for your poultice that are not altered (many brands contain harmful substances such as lead) and that third-party lab testing results are available. Make sure you do your research to find a reliable supplier.
Poultices made from calcium bentonite clay are a very popular option. It can be purchased online in powdered form or at most health food shops. You will also need spring, distilled, or filtered tapwater to make your poultice. You can also add high-quality essential oils to your poultice, depending on what ailment it is. Manuka honey has antibacterial properties, and pure essential oils. Your blend can also include tea, colloidal silver, tea, apple cider vinegar, and carrier oils.
2. Create your blend
Once you have carefully chosen each ingredient, it is time to make your poultice. Mix half a cup clay with one cup of cold water. Add any other ingredients that are relevant to your health concern.
Use a container made of metal or utensils to mix your poultice. The clay reacts with metal, which can reduce its effectiveness. Keep in mind that perishable items have a shorter shelf-life. Make sure to make as much as you need. Keep it in an airtight container and dry in a cool place.
3. Give it a try!
Positive intention is required to apply the poultice on your horse. Each custom blend provides a unique healing experience for your horse and you. Apply the clay to the area with a non-metal utensil, such as a spoon or tongue depressor. It’s time for you to reapply the clay if it becomes flaky and dry.
If you have wounds or infection, you don’t want your poultice to contain a contaminated dispenser (or fingers). You can use one end of the utensil and then the other. Then, dispose of it. When applying, wear rubber gloves.
Common uses for clay poultices
Here are some common ways to use clay poultices for your horse companion. Remember to call your vet first if you have any questions or concerns about your horse’s health. Ask your vet if a clay poultice is possible to supplement the care you are giving your horse. If so, what specific ingredients should you add to the clay/water mixture?
Inflammation and chronic flare-ups
Use the following order: cotton wrap, cotton wrap, saran wrap, damp paper bag, no bow wrap and a bandage. Continue to apply the clay poultice on the affected area until it is gone.
Injury prevention
To prevent injury, cold poultices may be applied to the legs of your horse before and after exercise. Cold wraps can be used to prevent inflammation, increase blood circulation, and stiffen joints.
Infection
Do NOT place clay on an infected wound or draining wound. Apply clay to the edges of the gauze pad, which should be larger than the wound. To remove the infection, wrap it in a sweat bandage. The poultice can be used to cover the wound after the inflammation has subsided. This prevents flies and other insects from irritating the wound.
Coloidal silver, Manuka honey and activated charcoal can be added to support infections and prevent the formation of proud flesh.
Bug bites
Your poultice should be applied to the bite and surrounding areas. To remove tick bites, apply peppermint oil or Palo Santo essential oils directly to the tick. The tick should be released within 30 seconds. To draw out poisons, place a charcoal clay poultice on the tick site.
Skin conditions
Clay poultices are a great way to speed up the healing of common skin conditions like mud fever, rainrot, allergies, rashes and hives. To create a custom remedy, you can add chamomile tea and herbal tinctures to your poultice. Honey is an antibacterial and soothing agent and balances pH.
Hoof Conditions
To aid in healing thrush and other hoof problems, you can add Epsom salts to your clay poultice. To prevent infection, all ingredients must be natural.
Many wild animals eat clay and soil to remove harmful elements. Clay absorbs chemicals, heavy metals, poisons, and other harmful substances. Clay can be used to detoxify your horse and prevent disease. It can also be used as a treatment for internal parasites or ulcers. Before giving any new feeds to your horse, consult your veterinarian.
