Pet Herb Library

69 detailed pet herb profiles with species-specific safety ratings, weight-based dosing, and administration guides.

Evidence:AllABCT

Showing 11 of 69 herbs

Bupleurum

Bupleurum chinense

BGood EvidenceApiaceae

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.

Cordyceps

Cordyceps militaris

BGood EvidenceCordycipitaceae

Adaptogenic mushroom renowned for enhancing stamina, oxygenation, kidney function, and cardiac performance. Cultivated Cordyceps militaris provides equivalent cordycepin and adenosine content without wild-harvest concerns.

Elecampane

Inula helenium

BGood EvidenceAsteraceae

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.

Passionflower

Passiflora incarnata

BGood EvidencePassifloraceae

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.

Peppermint

Mentha piperita

BGood EvidenceLamiaceae

Aromatic carminative cooling the GI tract, relieving gas, spasm, and nausea; essential oil form is UNSAFE for cats, rabbits, and birds despite herb tolerance.

Plantain

Plantago major

BGood EvidencePlantaginaceae

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.

Poria

Wolfiporia extensa

BGood EvidencePolyporaceae

TCM damp-draining fungus "Fu Ling" supporting spleen qi and gentle diuresis; widely used in canine, feline, and equine formulas for edema, digestive weakness, and mild anxiety.

Pumpkin Seed

Cucurbita pepo

BGood EvidenceCucurbitaceae

Cucurbitacin-bearing seed with mild anthelmintic (tapeworm, roundworm) action, urinary and prostate support; nutritive source of zinc and essential fatty acids for all pets.

Raspberry Leaf

Rubus idaeus

BGood EvidenceRosaceae

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.

Rose Hips

Rosa canina

BGood EvidenceRosaceae

Vitamin C and bioflavonoid-rich fruit that supports joint cartilage, immune function, and antioxidant status. Especially critical for guinea pigs and primates who cannot endogenously synthesize vitamin C.

Slippery Elm

Ulmus rubra

BGood EvidenceUlmaceae

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.