Let Honey Heal Your Horse's Wounds

There’s nothing pleasant about a nasty wound on your horse! What’s even more stressful, is the frightening task of helping it heal correctly. With a range of products on the market, it can be hard to decide what is best for your equine companion. If you’re one of the many who like to treat your horse as naturally as possible, Manuka honey might be your solution!

Manuka honey is found in beehives in Australia and New Zealand. The bees visit manuka and jelly bushes for their nectar. It is filled with antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties that support rapid healing of cuts and wounds. There is an increased growth of healthy tissues, as well as improved skin surface growth. The honey also slows proud flesh.

In particular, leg wounds are slow to heal, but with use of this honey you can expect as much as 27% faster healing times. The average untreated wound could take as long as 64 days to heal, rather than 47 days with the use of Manuka honey, according to Dr. Andrea Bischofberger at the University Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Camden.

It is relatively safe for horses with limited side effects. It’s best to apply the honey twice per day in smaller amounts. There’s no need to put large globs on that will collect dirt. Flies are no more attracted to the wound than they would usually be, but the honey doesn’t act as a repellant either. It might be wise to apply a small bit of fly repellant around the wound. Occasionally, horses will try to lick it off. In this case, a small bandage might be necessary.

While regular honey does have some medical benefits, Manuka honey is far superior. Even when diluted, the honey has still shown to maintain its effectiveness. It can be expensive to purchase, but as an alternative means to helping your horse heal, it is worth it!