Holistic Options for Treating EHV-1
While there are no conventional treatments for the disease, those of
us who practice holistic horse health care have a few options should
our horses start showing signs of infection. ImmuSun from Simplexity
Health is a form of beta-glucan, and this product can help trigger the
immune system of the horse to be on high alert. I take this product
myself at the first sign of a cold sore or respiratory infection. The
dose for a person for immune support is one capsule a day. For a
horse, two capsules per day works well. I double the dose if the
infection has already progressed.
Vitamin C is also helpful for immune support in the face of viral
infection. I like Citrus C/Q as a natural source of vitamin C. The
tinctures of Lemon Balm and Scullcap can help fight the virus.
Homeopathic remedies to keep in mind for acute neurological symptoms
include aconite and belladonna. Body work such as network
chiropractic, Bowen, or equine touch can be helpful. Acupuncture is an
option if a horse has symptoms and it is safe to be close to him. A
quiet, low stress environment is also important.
As always, the best defense is a good offense. Educate yourself and
stay up on the latest information, don’t travel with your horse or
bring in new horses without ensuring that there is a low chance of
infection, support your horse’s immune system, and have a plan in
place if the worst happens and your horse becomes infected. Pray for
all the horses currently affected that they may recover quickly and
this outbreak will end.