With the popularity of full-spectrum CBD on the rise, some equine owners are turning to full-spectrum CBD oil as a natural way to treat a variety of problems.  Although CBD is used as a nutritional supplement in both humans and animals, some ailments that CBD may able able to address are unique to horses.

Although the full uses and benefits of CBD for horses are still being studied, anecdotal reports show a positive response in the following conditions:

Arthritis

A large number of horses suffer from arthritis pain. Just like with humans, arthritis in horses is caused by chronic inflammation, which leads to permanent joint damage. Arthritis symptoms may be helped by supplementing with CBD oil, which has been shown to reduce inflammation.

Colic

Colic is a common problem in horses. Colic in horses is a general term used to describe abdominal pain. You should consult a veterinarian about the cause of your horse’s colic; colic is the leading cause of premature death in horses and often requires surgery. Horses can be difficult to medicate for pain, and some owners have used CBD to alleviate some of the intense pain associated with colic.

Gastric Ulcers

The majority of horses (up to 9 out of 10!) will be diagnosed with gastric ulcers at some point in their lives. Gastric ulcers in horses are painful and can affect their appetite. CBD has been reported to help with pain, appetite, and digestion, and many horse owners report that CBD helps alleviate their horses’ painful gastric ulcer symptoms.

Skin Conditions/Allergies

Skin conditions and allergies can cause inflammation and pain, which many horse owners choose to treat with CBD. Anecdotal accounts show some success in the use of CBD to treat pain and inflammation due to skin conditions or allergies.

Anxiety

Any horse owner or enthusiast will tell you that just like people, horses can get bouts of anxiety. Many horses are very anxious about riding in trailers or going on a new path. Some owners give their horses CBD and have reported that it has a calming effect.

Laminitis

A very common condition in horses is a disease called laminitis. This condition is characterized by inflammation within the hoof tissue. This can cause severe pain in horses, causing distress not only to the horse himself but the owner who is seeing their horse in pain. Full-spectrum CBD has been known to help alleviate inflammation. Speak with your veterinarian about supplementing with full-spectrum CBD for horses.

Desmitis

Horses can suffer a condition called desmitis, which is caused by inflammation in the ligaments. This usually occurs in the coffin joint and legs. This condition is unfortunately common. The anti-inflammatory properties of full-spectrum CBD for horses may help alleviate the symptoms of this condition.

Support for Horse Immune Function

Fatty acids like the Omega-3s found in full-spectrum CBD help the body absorb and process other vitamins. Speak with your vet about using full-spectrum CBD for horses as part of an overall wellness plan.

CBD for Horse Anxiety

Just as their human companions, horses are also prone to anxiety, especially when traveling in trailers. A particular version of anxiety called “area anxiety” is particularly distressing to horses. Speak with your veterinarian about supplementing with CBD to help alleviate anxiety in your horse. Horse owners may administer the oil prior to a stressful event. Because hemp-derived CBD has less than 0.3% THC, your horse won’t feel loopy or drowsy. They will still be able to perform or travel, just in a potentially more relaxed state.