PRESCRIPTION HERBAL THERAPY
Herbal medicine is the foundation of modern pharmaceuticals and can be used to promote optimal health and treat a wide variety of issues in our equine athletes. Herbals are often combined with acupuncture treatments and are prescribed based on the patient's assessment and diagnosis. They can aid in needle-shy horses or horses that are not responding to Western medication. Herbal therapy can also be used as a practical alternative to Western medication in performing sport horses that undergo drug testing as the recipes are drawn only from natural sources.
As with any medication, herbal medicine should not be taken lightly and a consultation with Dr. Godman is needed before herbal medication can be prescribed. Dr. Godman only prescribes Herbal Medications from Dr. Xie's Jing Tang Herbal which are Made in the U.S.A. Certified cGMP in Manufacturing, Packaging, Warehousing and Distribution by National Animal Supplement Council (NASC).
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Your Questions, Answered
WHAT IS CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE?
Chinese herbal medicine is a holistic approach to healing. Along with acupuncture, it comprises a system of diagnosis and systemic treatment commonly known as Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine or TCVM.
Within the treatment system of TCVM, illness is seen as a disharmony between an animal and their environment and it seeks to restore that harmony for health. Traditionally, TCVM was seen as an extension of nutrition, with herbs being added to food to improve their effects on the body.
Today it has evolved into a treatment system of complex formulas of herbs with specific uses. The group of herbs in a formula complement each other and allow the formula to work with minimal side effects and in a way that supports the health and balance of the body.
WHAT TYPES OF ILLNESS CAN BE TREATED BY CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE?
Chinese medicinal herbs are used in horses for a variety of conditions. These may include, but are not limited to:
Anhydrosis
Allergies
Lameness
Osteoarthritis
Tendon/Ligament Injuries
Neurologic Disease
Metabolic Disorders
Laminitis
Kidney Disease
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Liver Problems
Heart Problems
Anxiety/Behavioral Problems
Respiratory Disease
Skin Disorders
Urinary/Bladder Disorders
Cellulitis
Reproduction
geriatric health complications.
TCVM herbs can also be used in support of cancer treatments, including chemotherapy. Herbs prescribed by your veterinarian are sourced from reputable companies and are tested for contamination, to ensure the plant species are correct, and to confirm their purity.
HOW LONG WILL TREATMENT LAST
Herbal treatments tend to be gentler than conventional medications and may take longer to see clear results. Depending on the problem for which treatment is prescribed, it may take a minimum of two weeks for improvements. Often a short course is all that is necessary for acute problems.
However, chronic conditions may require several months of treatment to restore balance and wellness to the body. Herbs are often combined with changes in diet and lifestyle as well as acupuncture to improve overall benefits. As your horse's condition improves or changes, different formulas may be added or discontinued.
CAN HERBS BE GIVEN WITH MY HORSE'S REGULAR MEDICATIONS?
Yes, herbs prescribed by a trained veterinarian can be used with conventional drugs.
ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?
Properly chosen and sourced Chinese herbal medicines do not have “side effects.” They do have effects and after starting a new herbal formula, if these effects persist, are unwanted or unhelpful (such as decreased appetite, soft stools, or mild nervousness), these new symptoms will guide your veterinarian to change the dosage or the formula itself.
The most common changes (although still not prevalent) can include diarrhea, or a decrease in appetite. In any case, contact Dr. Godman if you notice any changes in your horse.
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