3 Essential Herbs for Your Dog

We all know that people can use herbs to stay healthy, but did you know some of the common plants in your herb garden may be good for your dog, too?

Comfrey

One of the easiest herbs to grow is comfrey, which was known in the past as knit-bone. This plant has many uses, but its primary benefit is its ability to help the body quickly heal from cuts, insect bites and even broken bones. To use this herb to help heal a cut on your dog's skin, take a fresh leaf and mince or blend it. (If you only have dried leaves, reconstitute them in cold water first). Place the poultice on the cleaned wound, and cover with a bandage for several hours or overnight. (This also works for human cuts and scrapes).

The chemicals in the plant have anti-inflammatory properties and increase circulation, which can help relieve the pain of arthritis - a common problem with older dogs.

Comfrey is a powerful herb, and should not be given to dogs that are pregnant or nursing - and it should not be given to any dog with liver disease or to any dog for an extended period of time. If your dog has a serious wound or a broken bone, be sure to contact her veterinarian before treating the problem yourself.

Calendula

Calendula is a plant often grown in the flower garden for its yellow or orange blossoms, which are edible. The flower petals have natural antibiotic and anti fungal properties, and can be used to treat skin irritations and wounds. Use only the blossoms - especially with cats, because a chemical in the leaves and stems may cause severe allergic reactions in you dog's feline friends.

Calendula and comfrey, used together with a few additional ingredients, can be used as a treatment for skin problems such as burns, cuts, and foot pad irritations.

Skin Healing Oil:

On a clean paper towel, lay out equal amounts of the following fresh herbs -

Calendula blossoms (not the stems or leaves)
Comfrey leaves
St. John's Wort blossoms

Allow the blossoms and leaves to wilt for several hours, place in the top of a double boiler, and cover with olive oil. Heat over boiling water for at least 40 minutes, remove from heat, and cool. Strain the oil through cheesecloth, and for each cup of oil, add:

¼ teaspoon tea tree oil
1 to 3 drops lavender essential oil

You can use the oil now, by pouring some on a sterile cotton pad and applying to the dog's skin.

Rosemary

Rosemary also has anti fungal and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used to wash external cuts, bites and abrasions on your dog's skin. Rosemary tea can also be used to treat ear infections.

Rosemary Ear Oil

This oil will help remove foreign matter and soothe irritations. To make, combing ¼ cup warm olive oil, 1 teaspoon ground cloves, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, and 1 teaspoon rue leaves. Allow the oil and herbs to steep for several hours, and then refrigerate up to 2 weeks.

Use a cotton swab dipped in the Rosemary Oil to clean your dog's ears.

Comfrey, calendula and rosemary are three easy-to grow herbs that belong in any dog lover's herb garden. They won't replace the care of your local veterinarian, but for minor scrapes and irritations, these herbs can provide welcome relief.