Pet Herb Library

Astragalus membranaceus

An adaptogenic immune-modulating herb safe for long-term use. Used for chronic immune support, cancer adjunct therapy, and vitality in aging pets. Unlike echinacea, safe for extended use.

Bupleurum chinense

Core TCM veterinary herb; liver-mover and harmonizer in formulas like Xiao Yao San and Minor Bupleurum. Treats liver stagnation, hepatitis, and fever in integrative practice.

Calendula officinalis

The premier wound-healing herb for pets. Used primarily topically for cuts, hot spots, skin irritation, and ear infections. Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and promotes tissue repair.

Uncaria tomentosa

Peruvian inner bark vine with immunomodulating, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties; used in canine and equine arthritis, Lyme disease support, and chronic immune conditions.

Matricaria chamomilla

One of the safest and most versatile herbs for pets. Mild sedative, digestive soother, and anti-inflammatory. Used as a calming tea, skin rinse, or added to food.

Galium aparine

Premier lymphatic mover and gentle diuretic that drains congested lymph nodes and supports urinary flow. One of the safest and most reliable alteratives for acute swollen glands across virtually all species.

Symphytum officinale

Classic "knitbone" topical wound, bruise, and sprain herb rich in allantoin; used EXTERNALLY ONLY in modern veterinary herbalism due to pyrrolizidine alkaloid hepatotoxicity.

Zea mays

Gentle demulcent diuretic made from corn stigmas; soothes inflamed urinary tract lining and is safe for dogs, cats, horses, and small mammals with cystitis or bladder irritation.

Taraxacum officinale

A gentle tonic for liver and kidney support. Root supports the liver; leaf acts as a natural diuretic rich in potassium. Safe for most species and excellent for older pets.

Taraxacum officinale

Bitter cholagogue root that stimulates bile flow, supports hepatic detoxification, and aids digestion of fats. Distinct from leaf (diuretic) and flower (mildly hepatic); root is the premier liver and gallbladder tonic.

Inula helenium

Warming expectorant lung tonic with antimicrobial inulin-rich root; traditionally used in horses (hence "horse-heal") and dogs for chronic wet cough, bronchitis, and post-kennel-cough recovery.

Eleutherococcus senticosus

Classic Soviet-researched adaptogen used to enhance stamina, stress resilience, and recovery without the stimulating edge of Panax ginseng. Supports working dogs, performance horses, and convalescent animals of all species.

Linum usitatissimum

Omega-3 rich seed (ALA), lignans, and soluble fiber supporting coat quality, skin health, and mild bowel regulation in dogs, cats, horses, and small mammals.

Solidago virgaurea

Anti-inflammatory kidney and urinary tract tonic; an excellent aquaretic for dogs, cats, and horses with chronic cystitis, UTIs, or early-stage kidney insufficiency.

Melissa officinalis

Gentle, lemon-scented nervine with notable antiviral activity against herpesviruses. Unique among the mints for tolerance across small exotic species including rabbits and birds when used in moderation.

Glycyrrhiza glabra

An anti-inflammatory and adrenal support herb. Short-term use only due to potential for fluid retention and blood pressure elevation. Often used to enhance palatability of herbal blends.

Hericium erinaceus

Neurotrophic medicinal mushroom that stimulates nerve growth factor (NGF) and supports cognition, peripheral nerve repair, and gut mucosa. Emerging use in senior cognitive decline and IBD protocols across species.

Althaea officinalis

Cooling, mucilaginous demulcent that coats and soothes dry respiratory and urinary tissues. Leaf is distinct from root in having stronger upper-respiratory affinity and gentler action for dry, irritated coughs.

Althaea officinalis

A soothing demulcent similar to slippery elm. Excellent for urinary tract support, GI inflammation, and respiratory irritation. Very safe for all species.

Urtica dioica

A nutrient-rich herb with natural antihistamine properties. Excellent for allergy support, urinary health, and as a nutritional supplement. Rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins.

Olea europaea

Broad-spectrum antimicrobial leaf rich in oleuropein, used for immune support, chronic low-grade infection, and mild blood pressure elevation in companion animals (Animal Essentials Super Immune ingredient).

Passiflora incarnata

A gentle calming herb, milder than valerian. Good for dogs with mild anxiety, restlessness, or sleep difficulties. Often combined with chamomile for a calming blend.

Plantago major

Gentle demulcent and vulnerary herb that draws toxins from bites, stings, and wounds while soothing inflamed mucous membranes. A safe, ubiquitous lawn weed used across all species for skin and gut healing.

Rubus idaeus

Classic female reproductive tonic that tones uterine smooth muscle and prepares the dam for easier whelping, kindling, or foaling. Astringent tannins also support GI health and mild diarrhea.

Ulmus rubra

A soothing demulcent that coats and protects the GI tract. One of the safest herbs for all pet species. First-line herbal support for diarrhea, vomiting, and GI inflammation.

Valeriana officinalis

A well-known calming herb used for anxiety, noise phobia, and restlessness in dogs and horses. May cause paradoxical excitability in some animals. Cats are attracted to it like catnip.

Hamamelis virginiana

Astringent topical bark and leaf used as a hydrosol/distillate for insect bites, hot spots, minor cuts, inflamed ears, and anal gland irritation in companion animals and horses.