The Popularity of CBD grows by the day. people who use it can testify to its many benefits. This gives CBD an edge over conventional medicine. CBD is being tried for different forms of medicine including Veterinary medicine. This is what led us to find out how CBD works for Horses.
In animals, CBD handles managing behavior challenges and chronic pain. But we know little about how CBD functions in horses and the health benefits it offers for them. Horses are sensitive and emotional but very intelligent. Thus, those who care for horses keep a close eye on their health and well-being.
What Is CBD?
CBD is short for “cannabidiol”, one of more than 80 different cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. CBD and THC are the two most studied, and this is where many misunderstandings stem from.
Cannabis sativa L. (genus, species, and subspecies) is the “umbrella term” for the plants known as hemp and marijuana. Marijuana is particularly high in THC, the cannabinoid that creates a psychoactive “high.” CBD does not create this effect.
CBD is not marijuana. Although both hemp and marijuana belong to the Cannabis genus, their genetic composition distinguishes them to produce different amounts of THC. Hemp-derived CBD is high in CBD and very low in THC (less than 0.3%).
Legality for Use of CBD
Though CBD is legal in all 50 US states, thanks to the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill4, federal law does not preempt state law, and there are still some restrictions within various states. as many cities throughout the country prohibit alcohol sales, there are local and state laws that restrict industrial hemp products. But bottom line, it is legal to buy and consume hemp-derived CBD products. The FDA does not regulate it so it behooves you to choose a reputable company that is willing to disclose the source, extraction method, and analysis of their products.
Effects Of CBD On Horses
The endocannabinoid system is a part of most mammals’ bodies. Horses, dogs, cats, humans- they all have an endocannabinoid system, and it generally works the same way in most bodies. The endocannabinoid system (the ECS) is a regulatory receptor system that interacts with cannabinoids- both Phyto cannabinoids (cannabinoids from plants) and endocannabinoids (cannabinoids already present within the body).
This interaction among the ECS and the cannabinoids help to maintain homeostasis within the body, and many of the essential systems.
This homeostasis is synonymous with health, for if the essential functions and systems are in balance, then they are in good health. Having a healthy endocannabinoid system is necessary for the health of the body. These cannabinoids, such as CBD, can assist in maintaining a healthy endocannabinoid system.
Health Benefits Of CBD for Horses
Most research on CBD on animals we’re done on Cats and dogs. There is no enough evidence on the advantages of CBD for horses. But horse owners have proved that the use of CBD for their horses has made them more agile and improved. Basic benefits include;
- Pain and Inflammation Management
Horses with chronic injuries and illnesses suffer from pain and inflammation. CBD oil will interact with the nervous system and trigger signals that reduce pain. It also reduces the impact of all these on the immune system to decrease inflammation. Such relief is all your horse needs.
- Regulating Stress, aAnxiety, and Mood
Horses that have a strong bond with their owners might suffer stress and anxiety when they subject them to certain conditions. The owner can administer CBD to ease anxiety when leaving it behind or when the horse has become aggressive for some reason.
- Digestion
Horses that eat the recommended diet may not have digestion problems. But this is not always the case. When there is a digestive problem, CBD oil might help according to recent research
- Relief Of Chronic Laminitis
Because of CBD’s ability to stabilize blood pressure, people are using CBD to manage Chronic Laminitis in their horses. In most cases, CBD can lower blood pressure levels. This results in proper blood flow to essential areas such as the laminae. CBD can also give your horse some reprise from the pain. So, you can seek other medications for this serious condition.
Best CBD Products for Horses
As you may already have noticed, there is a wide array of CBD products on the market. This increase is due to the rise in popularity (and research into) CBD and cannabis in general. You will be able to find almost any product you can think of, from balms to suppositories and treats to oils. But when it comes to horses, which product is the best?
CBD OIL is one of the most versatile products you can administer to your horse with ease. Most CBD oils come with a dropper, making it easy to administer precise dosages to pets.
Correct Dosage Of CBD for Horses
So now you have decided that you want to give your horse CBD, you need to know how much CBD oil to give to your horse.
There Are Two Main Questions Most People Consider:
– The amount administered will depend on the severity of the condition
– The amount will depend on the age and weight of the horse
But, when you are considering the dosage, it is important to bear in mind that there is not yet enough research. This confirms and put in place the above considerations into recommended dosages.
The Best Way To Dose CBD for Your Horse Is with The Stepwise Dosing Procedure:
– Begin with a low baseline dose
– increase the dosage in increments over a set time
– Determine the point where you witness the dose have a positive effect on the condition
Risks Involved in using CBD for Horses
The Veterinary community is beginning to accept CBD. But it can’t be in use for all animals. Researchers warn against using CBD for pregnant or nursing mares. We do not know how it would affect reproduction in breeding stallions.
While it’s non-intoxicating, CBD can’t be in use by some organizations that govern competition. This includes racing commissions and individual breed and show associations. It pays to do your research beforehand to ensure safety and compliance if you are competing with your horse.
