This is a blend intended to aid the metabolic activities within the glandular and digestive systems. For your easy keeper, it will aid in keeping them at a healthier weight by supporting the break downs of sugars before they become absorbed into the body. This blend is great for horses out on pasture that seem to gain too much weight or when feeding several horses together, maybe the horse that seems to stay overweight when the rest of the herd stays at a perfect weight. This blend is also very effective for the horse that you seem to have to starve to keep its weight down, even when regularly ridden and can slowly be moved up to a scoop morning and night, so they can have a regular diet. This is also good for a horse that cannot process sugars. This would be a great starting point and remember even your grass hays have sugars in them.
Weaknesses Possibly Supported with this Blend:
horses that are overweight
horses sensitive to sugars
horses that gain weight extremely fast when put out on pasture
horses that can’t lose weight
horses considered to be easy keepers
horses that tend to have tender front feet in the summer on pasture
horses with a lack of energy
horses that may have metabolic symptoms
Possible Support by Herb:
Ashwagandha - is an adaptogenic herb and helps the body maintain homeostasis, even in moments of emotional or physical stress along with supporting against disease and damaging environmental factors. One of the great aspects of adaptogen herbs is they may help with thyroid problems. Ashwagandha has been shown to support sluggish thyroid. In a study published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine found that Ashwagandha has thyroid - enhancing properties and in the lab testing found that some of these patients experienced T4 increases also. Research also shows it may be helpful in supporting adrenal function and help overcome adrenal fatigue. Your adrenals are endocrine glands that are responsible for releasing hormones, specifically cortisol and adrenaline, in response to stress. An animal study published in Reports of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology found that when it was given to fructose-fed rats, it inhibited the fructose -induced increases in glucose, insulin resistance and inflammation. This data suggests it may be helpful in improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammatory markers. Benefiting many other body systems including the immune, neurological, muscular, endocrine and reproductive systems.
Bladderwrack - rich in minerals and thought to have the highest antioxidant activity of any flavonoid in edible seaweeds. Supports healthy synovial fluid, cartilage and joint health. May promote healthy energy levels and are rich in magnesium, calcium, iodine, zinc, sulphur, potassium, selenium, phosphorous and is a rich source of B vitamins. Also supports digestion, gut health, immune system, respiratory system, glandular system, structural and muscular system.
Chickweed Herb - Supports gut, digestive, kidney, bladder, skin and intestinal support due to its antioxidants, fiber and essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A and C, calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc. Some animal studies suggest it may have certain anti-obesity effects and may support weight loss by delaying intestinal absorption of dietary fat and carbohydrates. Also considered to have mild, natural diuretic effects that support the health of the kidneys and bladder including bladder infections and kidney-related issues, while decreasing fluid retention and swelling. Containing a compound called saponins, which studies suggest fight bacteria, inflammation and have astringent properties. Also benefits the skeletal health due to the supply of calcium and magnesium. Its source of vitamin C and zinc support overall immune system health and protect against coughs, asthma, allergies and bronchial issues.
Cinnamon - helps support lower blood sugar levels and is well known for its blood sugar lowering properties and has beneficial effects on insulin resistance through several mechanisms. First it has been shown to decrease the amount of sugar that enters your bloodstream after a meal. It does this by interfering with numerous digestive enzymes, which slows the breakdown of carbohydrates in the digestive tract. Then a compound in cinnamon may mimic the effects of insulin to improve the uptake of sugar into the cells. Studies have confirmed the beneficial effects of lowering fasting blood sugar levels and improve hemoglobin A1c, a marker of long-term blood sugar control. Also rich in antioxidants that protect your body from oxidative damage caused by free radicals which also help with inflammation.
Gymnema Sylvester - may help fight sugar cravings and reduce blood sugar levels, fight inflammation and aid weight loss. Research shows it can reduce the ability to taste sweetness and make sweet foods less appealing and can also block receptors in the intestines and thus sugar absorption, lowering post meal blood sugar levels. Gymnema’s role in insulin secretion and cell regeneration may also contribute to its blood sugar lowering capabilities. Higher insulin levels mean the sugar is cleared from the blood at a faster rate.
Licorice Root - is used in tandem with other herbs to enhance their effects and essentially guide the other herbs here they would be most beneficial. In 2013, this was reviewed by the Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Researchers also have discovered many of its effects observed to be anti-inflammatory, have an effect on metabolism. Also supports the digestive system and aids in leaky gut, and inflammation in the lining of the intestines that can cause ulcers. In the medical journal Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, licorice was found to help the body more efficiently regulate cortisol, the stress hormone which gives the adrenals a break and is one of the main adaptogen herbs to help improve stress response. As an antispasmodic, it can have a positive effect on cramps both abdominal and muscles as well.
Nopal - Rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, and may help lower blood sugar levels and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. It is high in fiber, which can aid digestion and promote a feeling of fullness and aid in weight loss. Containing thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin B6, all of which are vital components of metabolism and act as co-enzymes that are important in metabolic actions. A healthy organ system and hormonal balance help in losing weight and promoting healthy muscle gain which is important for toning the entire body.
Rhodiola - helps reduce stress, fatigue, and anxiety while also potentially improving mental performance and physical endurance. It is an adaptogen, which means it may help the body adapt to stress, fatigue and overall wellbeing.
Rosemary - is a rich source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds which help boost the immune system and improve blood circulation. Supporting the digestive system, improves memory, relieves muscles pain and spasms, eye health, stimulates hair growth, supports the circulatory and nervous system and also supports the brain including brain aging.