Licorice

The root of the Licorice plant is classified as a bitter herb. It is one of the most valuable herbal medicines, praised by ancient herbalists who used it on both humans and animals. Approximately 30 percent of licorice's dry weight is made up of antibacterial and anti fungal compounds.The properties found in licorice also have anti viral, anti inflammatroy and anti arthritic action.Licorice is widely used in herbal remedies. It has the ability to harmonise with other herbs, especially Aloe Vera and its taste is not unpleasant to most horses.

It is considered a general tonic. Licorice is considered an expectorant, laxative, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, and anti-ulcer herb. Licorice owes its anti-ulcer properties to its content of therapeutic pigments known as flavanoids. These flavanoids can actually lower gastric secretions so this herb is not suitable for long-term prevention of ulcers. Its properties do relieve scouring quickly, calms upset stomachs and reduces bloating. Licroice is also very good in treating some skin conditions including itch. Licorice appears to regulate oestregen levels and it has been used to facilitate fertility in female animals.

Licorice has anti-bacterial activity so it is beneficial for digestive upsets secondary to pathogenic bacteria. It also has anti-fungal activity against such pathogens as candida albicans, which can overgrow and disrupt the delicate balance of bacteria in the intestine.

It can be useful to aid a horse coming off prolonged steriod or "bute" treatment.

Licorice root contains many anti-depressant compounds and is an excellent alternative to St. John's Wort. As a herbal medicine it has an impressive list of well documented uses and is probably one of the most over-looked of all herbal wonders. Licorice is useful for many ailments including asthma, athlete's foot, baldness, body odour, bursitis, chronic fatigue, depression, colds and flu, coughs, dandruff, emphysema, gingivitis and tooth decay, gout, heartburn, viral infections, fungal infections, ulcers, liver problems, Lyme disease, menopause, psoriasis, shingles, sore throat, tendinitis, tuberculosis, ulcers, yeast infections, prostate enlargement and arthritis.

CAUTION

Liquorice taken in excess or for a long period of time (over 3 months) can deplete potassium in the body potentially leading to fluid retention and raised blood pressure. Liquorice should not be taken simultaneously with potassium-depleting diuretics as it may potentiate their effects. It should also be avoided when taking digoxin based drugs. ***** However, liquorice is helpful when using NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) – it helps to avoid the irritating actions NSAIDs have on the stomach and intestines****.

Consult your vet if combining liquorice with corticosteroids. Do not give it to pregnant mares as it may affect hormone levels.

Recommended dosage 1 tablespoon daily (500kg horse) to damp feed once a day .

Simply add to cart for the 500g bag