People have been using Ribwort Plantain since ancient times, and for good reason! Thanks to its natural expectorant properties, you’ll still find it as a key ingredient in many cough syrups today. But this medicinal powerhouse isn’t just for us humans—it’s also a fantastic natural remedy for animals. For horses specifically, Ribwort Plantain works wonders as an anti-inflammatory and cough suppressant.
Ribwort Plantain for Horses
This member of the plantain family loves to grow along sunny roadsides, in meadows, or out in the fields. You can spot it by its long, pointed leaves that grow in a rosette close to the ground. These leaves are packed with health-boosting compounds, including:
- Mucilage (great for soothing throats)
- Tannins
- Silica
- Saponins
- Iridoid glycosides (which provide antimicrobial and antiviral benefits)
If your horse is struggling with a nagging cough, Ribwort Plantain is a go-to. The mucilage in the herb creates a protective layer over the throat’s mucous membranes, calming that urge to cough. Plus, it helps relieve pain and can even help stop minor bleeding.
For larger breeds (around 1,300 lbs), you can mix about 1 to 2 ounces (30-60g) of the herb right into their feed. Smaller horses and ponies only need about half that amount. If you want to give their respiratory system an extra boost, try mixing it with other healing herbs like thyme, fennel, or linden blossom. A herbal blend featuring Ribwort Plantain is a great way to protect your horse from colds during the winter, especially when they first move into a dusty stable, which can really irritate their airways.
Using Plantain Topically
When horses are out on pasture every day or hitting the trails, minor scrapes and nicks are bound to happen. Ribwort Plantain is excellent for quick first aid. Just crush or knead the leaves until the juices start to flow, then apply the “mash” directly to the wound and secure it with a bandage. Used this way, the plant acts as an:
- Antibacterial
- Antiseptic
- Hemostatic (stops bleeding)
- Wound-healing aid
Harvesting and Using Your Own
During the summer, you might notice your horse munching on Ribwort Plantain in the pasture. Let them go for it! It’s generally very well-tolerated and good for them. To make sure you have some on hand for the winter cough season, you’ll want to harvest and dry it during the summer months. Simply cut the leaves after the flowering period and let them dry in a breezy, sunny spot. If you don’t want to buy it pre-dried, it’s incredibly easy to grow in your own garden.
Once you have your dried leaves, just crumble them into their feed as a preventative measure during the winter, or brew them into a “cough tea” for your horse whenever they need a little extra TLC.