Herbs can provide numerous benefits for the coat and skin of animals, offering natural solutions to common issues like dryness, dullness, and irritation.
Many herbs contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that support healthy skin, promote a shiny coat, and aid in healing various conditions.
Whether applied topically or used as supplements in their diet, herbs provide soothing, nourishing and healing benefits without the harsh side effects of many chemical treatments.
Here are some of the main benefits of different herbs for animal coat and skin health.
Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)
Aloe vera is well-known for its cooling and moisturising properties. It’s great for soothing irritated or sun-damaged areas and can help in healing minor cuts or hot spots.
Best part to use: Interior pulp of fresh leaves.
Why is it good: Aloe Vera has a cleansing and healing effect to open wounds and cuts so if you animal is quite accident prone, Aloe Vera is a definite product to have in your tack room or at home. Aloe Vera also encourages the regrowth of skin and hair.
Fun fact: Most of Aloe Vera is transported around the world as a dry powder. This is because aloe contains large quantities of water, which is expensive to transport, therefore, the aloe is dehydrated close to its site of cultivation and then reconstituted once it reaches its destination.
Burdock Root (Arctium lappa)
Rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, burdock root supports skin hydration and can help reduce dryness, making it a good choice for animals with dry or flaky skin.
Best part to use: The root, which is usually harvested in its first year of growth when it is soft and rich in active compounds.
Why is it good: Burdock root is known for its detoxifying properties and ability to support skin health. It is rich in antioxidants, such as quercetin and luteolin, which help neutralise free radicals and reduce inflammation.
This makes it particularly beneficial for conditions like eczema, acne, and dry, flaky skin. It also contains inulin, a prebiotic fiber, that promotes digestive health, which in turn can reflect positively on skin health, as poor digestion can often lead to skin issues.
Fun fact: Burdock root inspired the invention of Velcro. In 1941, a Swiss engineer named George de Mestral observed how burdock burrs (the seed heads) clung to his clothing and his dog’s fur.
He studied the structure under a microscope and used it as the model to create Velcro, the hook-and-loop fastener we use today.
Herbs to supports overall skin and coat health
Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
Known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties, calendula can soothe irritated skin, reduce itching and promote faster healing of minor wounds or abrasions.
Best part to use: Flower heads and petals.
Why is it good: Calendula is a supreme herb for the skin traditionally used for burns, cuts, inflammation, bites, rashes and wounds. Containing high levels of nitrogen and vitamin A, Calendula can also be used internally to help support and strengthen the immune system.
It promotes skin regeneration and reduces swelling and redness, which is why it's often found in skin creams, balms, and lotions for both humans and animals.
Calendula also has antioxidant properties, helping to protect the skin from damage caused by environmental stressors.
Fun fact: Calendula was once called "poor man's saffron" because its vibrant orange petals were used to colour and flavour soups, stews, and other dishes.
Though it doesn't taste like saffron, its petals were a popular, more affordable substitute for giving food a rich, golden hue.
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
Soothing and anti-inflammatory, chamomile helps reduce skin irritation and can improve coat shine when used as a rinse or supplement.
Best part to use: The flowers.
Why is it good: Chamomile contains natural anti-inflammatory, soothing, and antioxidant properties. When used topically, it can help reduce skin irritation, rashes, and minor wounds.
It is also gentle and calming, making it an effective rinse to enhance coat shine for pets. When ingested as a supplement, chamomile has calming effects and can help with digestive issues.
Fun fact: Chamomile has been used for over 2,000 years in herbal medicine, and ancient Egyptians revered it so much they dedicated it to the sun god, Ra.
Chickweed (Stellaria media)
Chickweed is highly soothing and moisturising for the skin. It has anti-inflammatory, cooling, and emollient properties, making it effective in treating minor skin irritations, itching, rashes, and even eczema.
It can be used as a poultice, salve or rinse to promote skin health and improve coat shine by reducing irritation and dryness.
Best part to use: Aerial parts
Why is it good: Chickweed is one the finest herbs for the skin and has numerous actions. An infusion made from the aerial parts of the plant can be used externally it is great for cooling inflamed skin and helping to reduce irritations from insect bites and seasonal allergens.
Fun fact: Chickweed is known by the botanical name Stellaria media, which literally translates from Latin as "star in the midst."
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
Dandelion is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like zinc and iron, which help improve the overall health of the skin and coat. It supports detoxification, promoting a clear, healthy coat.
Best part to use: The leaves, roots, and flowers.
Why is it good: Dandelion is rich in vitamins (A, C, and K) and minerals (such as potassium and calcium), making it excellent for supporting overall skin health and enhancing coat condition.
The leaves and roots have detoxifying properties, helping the liver and kidneys eliminate toxins, which can improve the skin's appearance. It can be used internally as a supplement or applied externally in a rinse to soothe minor skin irritations and enhance coat shine.
Fun fact: Every part of the dandelion is edible and medicinal, and it's been used for centuries in traditional medicine to support digestion and detoxification.
Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)
Echinacea is known for boosting the immune system and aiding in the prevention of infections, which can contribute to healthier skin and fewer skin problems related to a compromised immune system.
Best part to use: The roots, leaves, and flowers.
Why is it good: Echinacea is well-known for its immune-boosting properties and can help promote skin healing by reducing inflammation and fighting off infections. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects make it useful for treating minor wounds, skin irritations, and promoting overall skin health.
When applied topically, it can soothe irritated skin, while when taken internally, it supports the immune system, helping the body fight off infections that may affect the skin.
Fun fact: Native Americans used echinacea for hundreds of years as a natural remedy to treat various ailments, including snake bites and infections.
Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum)
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseed helps nourish the skin and coat from the inside out, promoting a glossy, smooth coat.
Best part to use: The seeds
Why is it good: Flaxseed is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help promote a healthy coat and support skin health by reducing inflammation and dryness.
The seeds are also high in fibre, which aids digestion, contributing to overall health that reflects in the skin and coat. Ground flaxseed can be easily added to food as a supplement, or flaxseed oil can be applied topically for added moisture.
Fun fact: Flaxseed is one of the oldest cultivated crops, dating back over 6,000 years, and was highly valued for its fiber, which was used to make linen!
Natural flea and tick repellents
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Lavender has natural anti-fungal and insect-repellent properties. It also calms irritated skin and repels insects, which can contribute to a healthier, more comfortable coat.
Best part to use: The flowers.
Why is it good: Lavender is renowned for its calming and soothing properties. It has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities, making it beneficial for treating minor skin irritations, cuts, and burns.
When used in baths or as a rinse, lavender can help relax and soothe both skin and mind. Its pleasant aroma can also promote relaxation and reduce stress in pets.
Fun fact: Lavender has been used for centuries in aromatherapy and as a natural remedy, and it was even used by the ancient Romans for bathing and fragrance!
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon)
Often used in essential oil form, lemongrass has natural insect-repelling properties, making it effective against fleas, ticks, and other pests. It also provides antiseptic benefits to soothe skin irritated by bites.
Good herbs to use for inflammation
Liquorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
This herb acts like a natural corticosteroid, reducing inflammation and calming allergic reactions in the skin, making it ideal for animals with dermatitis or allergic skin conditions.
Best part to use: The root.
Why is it good: Liquorice root has powerful anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help alleviate skin irritations, rashes, and eczema. It contains glycyrrhizin, which has antimicrobial effects and can aid in skin healing.
Liquorice root can be used topically in creams or infused oils, or taken internally as a supplement to promote skin health and support overall wellness.
Fun fact: Liquorice root has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years, and its sweet flavour comes from compounds that are much sweeter than sugar—making it a popular ingredient in candies and herbal teas!
Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)
Known for its liver-supporting properties, milk thistle helps detoxify the body, which indirectly supports healthy skin and coat by clearing up skin issues related to poor liver function or toxin buildup.
Best part to use: The seeds.
Why is it good: Milk thistle is well-known for its liver-supporting properties, thanks to its active compound, silymarin.
A healthy liver can improve skin health by aiding in detoxification, which may help reduce skin issues such as acne and dermatitis. Additionally, milk thistle has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can promote overall skin health and healing. It can be taken as a supplement or used in topical preparations.
Fun fact: Milk thistle has a striking purple flower and distinctive white-veined leaves, making it not only beneficial but also a beautiful addition to gardens and herbal collections.
Nettle (Urtica dioica)
Nettle is rich in vitamins and minerals that support skin health and is often used to reduce allergic reactions or skin inflammation.
Best part to use: The leaves and roots.
Why is it good: Nettle is packed with vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals (like iron and calcium), making it excellent for supporting skin and coat health. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe skin irritations, allergies, and even arthritis.
Nettle can be used as a tea, supplement, or in topical applications to promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.
Fun fact: Despite its sting, nettle has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cuisine, and it’s also a favourite among gardeners as a natural fertiliser.
Our herbal product suggestions
Bye Bye Itch for horses, ponies and donkeys is formulated to maintain and support:
- Skin and cellular integrity, being rich in essential fatty acids
- Encourage natural resistance to allergens and skin irritation
- The cleansing of toxins from the body
Bye Bye Itch is designed to be fed to horses and ponies in the months prior to and throughout the 'itching' season. It can be given at a reduced rate through the winter months to give additional support. Use in conjunction with our Bye Bye Itch Lotion for optimum results.
Top Coat for dogs is formulated to maintain and support:
- Healthy coat and skin
- nNatural resistance to seasonal allergens
Top Coat is a fine cut dry supplement containing herbs such as marigold and nettle to help keep your dog's coat and skin in prime condition all year round.
Use in conjunction with our soothing Phytobalm Cream for any abrasions or irritations.