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Rethinking NSAIDs for Horses: Herbal Alternatives For Horses That Work


Choose Bute or Turmeric for Horses

As more information becomes available, horse owners are becoming increasingly aware of the long-term side effects associated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Common Equine NSAIDs:

  • Phenylbutazone (Bute)

  • Flunixin meglumine (Banamine)

While most discussions focus on gastrointestinal side effects like gastric ulcers and colon inflammation (right dorsal colitis), there’s another risk you should know about:

Long-term NSAID use can lead to kidney damage — specifically, renal papillary necrosis, where the inner portion of the kidney deteriorates, reducing its filtering ability.


Are There Herbal Solutions?

Yes!

We’re kicking off a series exploring herbs that may help you reduce or eliminate the need for NSAIDs, minimizing long-term health risks for your horse.

Herb Highlight: Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Turmeric is a powerhouse herb with numerous benefits, but today we’re focusing on its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

Turmeric vs. Bute:

Research has shown that Turmeric is as effective as Phenylbutazone when treating acute inflammation, and about half as effective for chronic inflammation.

Yes — you read that right!Turmeric has been shown to significantly reduce edema, joint stiffness, and swelling.

Why Turmeric May Be Better

Unlike NSAIDs, which block both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes (causing side effects), Turmeric mostly inhibits COX-2 — the enzyme responsible for pain and inflammation.

Why that matters:

  • COX-1 plays a critical role in protecting the stomach lining and ensuring proper blood flow to organs.

  • Turmeric supports gut and kidney health by sparing COX-1 activity.

Even Better News?

At the right dose, Turmeric may actually help prevent gastric ulcers — offering both pain relief and GI protection.

Looking for a Safe, Herbal Anti-Inflammatory?

Check out our LIFESPAN product — a veterinarian-formulated blend packed with anti-inflammatory herbs, including Turmeric.

Support your horse’s joint health naturally — and safely.

Stay Tuned for Part II of Our Herbal Series!

From our staff equine veterinarian and herbal specialist — because your horse deserves better.



References:

  • Srimal, R. C., & Dhawan, B. N. (1973). Pharmacology of diferuloyl methane (curcumin). Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 25(6), 447–452.

  • Rao, T. S., Basu, N., & Siddiqui, H. H. (2013). Anti-inflammatory activity of curcumin analogues. Indian Journal of Medical Research, 137(4).

  • Kohli, K., et al. (2005). Curcumin: A natural anti-inflammatory agent. Indian Journal of Pharmacology, 37(3), 141–147.

  • Yadav, S. K., et al. (2013). Turmeric (curcumin) remedies gastroprotective action. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 7(13), 42–46.


 
 
 

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