Lemon balm for horses: Natural support for nerves and well-being

Lemon balm ( Melissa officinalis ), also known as balm, is a time-honored medicinal herb with a wide range of uses not only for humans but also for animals such as horses. Thanks to its calming properties, it can help horses reduce nervousness and restlessness. It also supports digestion and contributes to general well-being.

In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about the benefits of lemon balm for horses, its ingredients, and possible applications in horse feeding.

Lemon balm – a valuable medicinal herb

The leaves contain valuable essential oils, flavonoids, and tannins, which can have a positive effect on your horse's health. Their calming properties, in particular, make them a popular feed supplement for horses suffering from stress or nervousness.

Properties of lemon balm

Supports the nervous system and helps with restlessness

Horses are sensitive animals that react quickly to changes in their environment. Competitions, transport, or unfamiliar situations can trigger stress and nervousness. The essential oils contained in lemon balm, especially citral and citronellal, have a calming effect on the central nervous system.

Promotes digestion and can relieve gastrointestinal complaints

Lemon balm is known for its digestive and antispasmodic properties. It stimulates the production of gastric juices and can thus help optimize digestion. The plant can provide valuable support, especially for horses prone to sensitive stomachs or flatulence.

In addition, the calming effects on the gastrointestinal tract can relieve cramps and thus prevent digestive disorders.

Contains valuable ingredients such as essential oils, flavonoids and tannins

The healing power of lemon balm is based on a unique combination of valuable ingredients. Essential oils such as citral and linalool have a relaxing effect, while flavonoids possess antioxidant properties and strengthen the immune system. The tannins it contains can also positively influence the intestinal flora and help protect the gastrointestinal tract.

Tastes pleasant and is well accepted by most horses

Not every horse likes the taste of herbs, but lemon balm has a pleasant, slightly lemony aroma. Most horses therefore readily accept it – whether in the form of dried leaves, as a tea, or in special herbal blends. Because of its high level of acceptance, lemon balm can be easily incorporated into daily feeding without your horse refusing to eat.

How can lemon balm help horses?

Many horses suffer from nervousness, whether due to transport, competitions, or other stressful situations. Lemon balm can offer gentle support in these cases. The calming essential oils help balance the nervous system and promote inner peace.

Lemon balm can also provide valuable support for gastrointestinal complaints. Its ingredients have antispasmodic properties and can regulate the production of gastric juices, which is especially important for horses with sensitive stomachs.

Lemon balm in horse feeding – How to use it correctly

You can add lemon balm leaves to your horse's feed as dried herbs, or brew them as a tea and add them to the feed. There are also special products containing lemon balm, such as oils or feed supplements, that can be easily incorporated into your horse's diet.

Recommended dosage:

• Dried lemon balm leaves: approx. 20–50 g per day (depending on horse size)

• Lemon balm oil: mix just a few drops into the feed

• Lemon balm tea: pour cooled over the feed

What products containing lemon balm are available for horses?

There are several products on the market that contain lemon balm and are specifically designed for horses. These include:
🔹 Dried lemon balm leaves as a feed supplement
🔹 Lemon balm oil for external or internal use
🔹 Herbal mixtures with other calming plants such as chamomile or valerian

Conclusion: Lemon balm as natural support for your horse

Lemon balm is a valuable medicinal herb that can support your horse in many ways—whether it's calming nerves or promoting digestion. It's a gentle yet effective addition to the diet and can sustainably improve your horse's well-being.

Rely on the power of nature and give your horse more peace and balance with lemon balm!