Gallop to Health: How Does CBD Affect Calmness and Peace in Horses?

The use of cannabidiol, or CBD, for the holistic treatment of our health and body has found its reflection in the animal world. Horse owners are increasingly reaching for this natural substance. Because in these beautiful and majestic animals, the harmony of physical and emotional well-being is the key to their health and performance.

It is not without reason that the potential of horse owners and enthusiasts is attracting more and more attention. CBD as a natural sedative. Because we want to take care of not only our own health in a natural way – but also the health of our four-legged friends.

CBD, the aforementioned cannabidiol, it is an organic chemical compound, one of over 100 cannabinoids found in hemp - plants of the Cannabis sativa species. This active compound has documented research confirming its positive and therapeutic effects on the human and animal body, via the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Among the many valuable effects of CBD is relieving anxiety, stress, calming and soothing.

CBD in veterinary medicine

The use of CBD in supporting animal welfare is growing, which is reflected in the interest in this form of therapy for animals among veterinarians.[1]In 2016, Dr. Stephanie McGrath, a neurologist and assistant professor at Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, conducted clinical trials on the effects of cannabidiol on dogs with conditions including epilepsy. The results were promising and prompted a 3-year research program on the effects of CBD on certain neurological conditions in animals.[2].

CBD for horses

It is becoming more and more noticed and appreciated the effect of cannabidiol on the horse's body. Research and observations by practitioners show its positive and broad impact on various aspects of the health and well-being of these animals.[3]. It is not only calming and soothing, but also supports digestive problems, joint ailments, etc.

You can find an analysis of the beneficial aspects of cannabidiol's impact on the horse's body in our entry How to Use the Valuable Properties of CBD for Horse Well-being.

One of the areas covered in this post is the issue of nervousness and hyperactivity in these beautiful animals. This is a problem that occurs quite often, especially among young horses or those that suffer from chronic pain as a result of past injuries or ailments caused by arthritis.

CBD for calming and soothing

Cannabidiol has documented, therapeutic psychoactive effects on the human and animal body. Interacting with the endocannabinoid system reduces reactivity to stress, lowering, among others, cortisol levels and inducing a state of relaxation.

Animals subjected to clinical trials using CBD were observed for their reactions to external stimuli, and their step length and suspension and support phases were also measured. In animals receiving CBD supplements, a decrease in the so-called reactivity to stimuli (such as sudden noise, movement) was noted, while the suspension and support phase increased, which indicates a decrease in stressful behaviors.[4]. Relaxed animals that are not easily stressed can better cope with things like transport or a change of environment.

CBD – Relaxation and Behavioral Benefits

In another study, 7 horses were given CBD for seven consecutive days. During this time, the concentration of the substance in the horses' blood, the absorption of cannabidiol, and the researchers also documented their temperature, heart rate and breathing. The results showed that the horses felt great and were relaxed, in good shape[5].

The calming effect of CBD also has a beneficial effect on horses that are nervous or temperamental. It can also be a significant support for animals undergoing convalescence, struggling with pain or other ailments and may then react more nervously to their surroundings.

How to give CBD to horses?

There are many options for supplementing CBD to animals. The beneficial cannabidiol can be administered in the form of:

• Oils: either used for aromatherapy (spraying), or as an additive to feed. In the case of aromatherapy, the most valuable will be the oil with the addition of lavender, which also has a strong calming and anti-stressing effect, and this is due to the high content of linalool
• Pellets from hemp inflorescences  
• Muesli
• Feed mixtures with added CBD
• CBD licks and treats

Summary

We are often convinced that what comes from nature is good not only for people, but also for animals. Because animals instinctively know what is good for them and they reach for plants that are beneficial to their health.

CBD and hemp are one of Mother Nature’s many gifts. There is no doubt that more research is needed to better understand the full range of benefits and optimal dosing of CBD for animals (not just horses, but dogs and cats as well).

However, current knowledge shows that CBD is a natural and safe compound that can help create a calm and balanced environment for our equine friends.

[1] https://magwet.pl/34024,co-lekarz-weterynarii-powinien-wiedziec-o-produktach-z-konopi

[2] https://www.avma.org/javma-news/2018-08-01/cannabis-research-veterinary-patients-advancing-cautiously

[3] https://everythinghorseuk.co.uk/harnessing-the-power-of-cbd-for-horse-health-a-comprehensive-guide/

[4] https://zlotykon.pl/CBD-dla-koni-blog-pol-1635019612.html

[5] https://equusmagazine.com/diseases/medications-and-drugs/cbd-research