Peppermint for horses – The green power for digestion, respiratory system and summer care

Are you looking for natural support for your horse—whether for digestion, the respiratory system, or to relieve sweet itch? Then it's worth taking a closer look at a time-honored herb: peppermint. Long valued in naturopathy, it's also becoming increasingly important in modern horse nutrition.

Peppermint is more than just a refreshing scent in the stable. Its essential oils, delicate leaves, stems, and versatile active ingredients make it a true all-rounder for horse health.

In this article, you will learn why peppermint is so valuable for horses, how to use it correctly, and in which situations it can be particularly helpful.

Peppermint – an underestimated medicinal plant

Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) is a cross between spearmint and water mint. Its high menthol content, combined with tannins and flavonoids, gives it a powerful effect on the body and well-being – not only in humans but also in horses. Peppermint has been considered a medicinal plant for centuries and is now used specifically in horse feed.

Its effect on the stomach, intestines, and respiratory tract has proven particularly effective in horses. At the same time, its pleasant taste and freshness provide additional stimulation for horses that tend to be picky eaters. In some horses, peppermint can even stimulate the appetite—ideal for horses that occasionally refuse food or are under stress.

Soothing for the stomach and digestion

Many horses sooner or later suffer from indigestion, flatulence, or a sensitive stomach. This is precisely where peppermint can help.

Its antispasmodic properties have a calming effect on the gastrointestinal tract, promote digestion, and can relieve flatulence. Peppermint has proven particularly effective for horses prone to colic or sensitive to feed changes.

Pouring lukewarm tea made from dried peppermint leaves over food is a simple way to gently support digestion. Alternatively, you can mix dried peppermint leaves directly into the food—they retain their essential oils and can exert their effects in a targeted manner.

Fresh airways thanks to essential oils

It's not just the intestines that benefit from mint's active ingredients. Peppermint is also used for respiratory problems. Its essential oils—especially the menthol it contains—have an expectorant, liberating, and refreshing effect. Especially during the cold, damp months, when many horses struggle with coughs or congested airways, peppermint can be used as a supplement or offered as a tea.

Horses generally respond well to the minty scent. Its essential components can help open the bronchi and facilitate breathing – completely naturally and without chemical additives.

Help with summer eczema, itching and insect bites

In summer, many horses suffer from sweet itch, itching, or constant insect bites. Peppermint is a natural helper here, too. Diluted peppermint oil, applied externally, can have a cooling and itch-relieving effect. It soothes irritated skin, and its intense fragrance keeps annoying insects away.

Mix a small amount of oil with a skin-friendly carrier oil (such as almond oil) and apply it to affected areas – natural care can be that simple. However, it's important to remember: You should never use essential oils undiluted and avoid sensitive skin areas such as mucous membranes or open wounds.

How to use peppermint in feeding

The possible uses in horse feeding are diverse. You can feed dried peppermint leaves either on their own or as part of a herbal blend—ideally in combination with other stomach-friendly herbs such as fennel or chamomile.

The herb also works excellently in a warm mash. Horses usually accept it gratefully, as peppermint is not only healthy but also has a refreshing flavor.

For an adult horse, the recommended feeding rate is approximately 10–20 g of dried mint per day – ideally in courses over a few weeks to maximize the benefits. Make sure the leaves are not contaminated or over-processed to preserve all their valuable nutrients.

When should you be careful?

Despite its beneficial properties, peppermint isn't always suitable for every horse. For pregnant mares or horses with existing stomach ulcers, you should consult your veterinarian before using it.

In very high quantities, peppermint can interfere with the absorption of nutrients or cause irritation – so it is better to use it selectively and consciously.

What peppermint products are available for horses?

Today, you can find peppermint in many high-quality products for horses – from simple herbal teas to special skin care for eczema sufferers. The refreshing oil is also often found in natural fly sprays.

If you pay attention to quality and choose products from controlled production, you can be sure that your horse is getting only the best.

Conclusion: Peppermint – the best support from nature

Peppermint is a real insider tip in the horse world. It combines health benefits with a pleasant taste, supports digestion, helps with respiratory problems, and provides relief from itching and insect pests in the summer. Whether as a tea, dried leaves, or as part of a herbal blend – with peppermint, you can harness the power of nature for your horse.

If you want to promote your horse's natural health, try peppermint.