The Animal Herbalist

22/08/2024

This is actually terrifying!
No processed food will ever beat real whole food especially for our furry friends

Written by Rodney Habib Pet Health Media

Question to you?

Do you think it's ethical for an ultra-processed food manufacturer to partner up with a national medical association⚕️? Like cigarette🚬 companies back in the day sponsoring doctors👨🏻‍⚕️.

In other words, would it be okay if coca-cola🥤worked alongside the American Medical Association to examine what is means to be healthy and to help find solutions?

In the pet nutrition🐾 world we know: "The British Veterinary Association and Mars Petcare (makers of Royal Canin & Pedigee) are working together to examine the links between pet nutrition, human behaviour, and healthy body weight in pets."

Together they’re working on several projects to identify the problem and work towards potential solutions as posted on the BVA website.

While I was on the west coast a few days ago, I wrangled up a bunch of veterinarians and asked them the same question. I'll post their views in a few days.

According to Dr. Andrew Knight, veterinary Professor of Animal Welfare: “The Mars-BVA partnership represents a significant conflict of interest. Veterinary associations have a responsibility to ensure their positions are evidence-based, up-to-date and not influenced by conflicts of interest.”

https://www.bva.co.uk/about-us/corporate-partnerships/mars-petcare-partnership/

16/08/2024

Trixie 💕🕊
It is with a very heavy heart that we had to recently say goodbye to the toughest clients we have had. Trixie's owner came to us at the start of the year with a heartbreaking diagnosis of lymphatic cancer in her beloved 13 year old maltese x poodle, the vets informed her that she only had a few weeks, maybe months.

Lymphatic cancer affects the immune system and lymph nodes so it can be extremely hard to treat and can easily spread into other areas. Our plan was to make Trixie as pain-free and comfortable as possible with an extract of Meadowsweet and immune and joint support as she was struggling to get up on the couch and overall very exhausted. We also spent time going through test results as many are filled with medical jargon to give an understanding of what those results mean and what to look out for

The weeks turned into months and months into half a year, buying more time for memories and special moments for Trixie's family.

I believe that herbal medicine can work alongside traditional veterinary practices with client care and wellbeing our first priority

28/06/2024

Spreading the word about the use of Australian Bush Medicine as an alternative worming treatment for sheep and other small ruminants

21/05/2024

Extra crispy this morning ❄️

16/02/2024

Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis): Nature's Multi-Talent

Marshmallow, scientifically known as Althaea officinalis, is a powerhouse of natural goodness. Extracts from its roots and flowers offer a diverse range of health benefits:

🌿 Antimicrobial Marvel: Marshmallow boasts antibacterial and antifungal properties against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Additionally, it exhibits antiviral, anti-yeast, and anti-complement activities, making it a smart choice for battling infections (Bahramian et al., n.d).

🌱 Inflammation Fighter: Marshmallow is a champion in reducing inflammation, making it effective against various conditions, including hyperlipidemia, gastrointestinal ulcers, and respiratory issues. It achieves this by inhibiting the synthesis and release of inflammatory cytokines (immune system messengers) (Bahramian et al., n.d).

💪 Immunomodulatory Magic: Marshmallow root extract enhances phagocytic and macrophage activities, along with boosting T lymphocyte numbers, making it an excellent choice for adaptive immune support (Bahramian et al., n.d).

🤧 Respiratory Rescue: Marshmallow proves invaluable in soothing inflamed tissues, reducing swelling, and easing respiratory congestion and dry coughs. It has been historically advised for conditions like cough, pneumonia, asthma, and more (Kianitalaei et al., 2019).

🤱 Nurturing Nature: For nursing mothers, marshmallow enriches breast milk, adding an extra layer of care for both mother and baby.

In essence, marshmallow stands as a versatile botanical ally, offering a spectrum of benefits from immune support to respiratory relief and forms part of our elixir. 🌸✨

References
Alieh Kianitalaei, Zohre Feyzabadi, Shokuhsadat Hamedi, Marzieh Qaraaty. Althaea Officinalis in Traditional Medicine and modern phytotherapy J Adv Pharm Edu Res 2019;9(S2):154-161.

15/02/2024

🌟 Unlock the Power of Iodine for Metabolic Wellness! 🌟
Did you know that iodine plays a pivotal role in maintaining the body's metabolic health? Here's why it's a true metabolic superhero:

✨ Thyroid Harmony:
Iodine is the secret ingredient for crafting thyroid hormones.
These hormones, T3 and T4, are the metabolic maestros, orchestrating energy production and nutrient utilization.

✨ Energize Your Metabolism:
Adequate iodine levels keep your metabolic engine revving.
A balanced metabolism means steady energy, effective nutrient use, and a harmonious weight balance.

✨ Fueling Energy Production:
Iodine is your ally in turning food into energy.
It ensures the body efficiently breaks down carbs, fats, and proteins for that lasting energy boost.

✨ Nutrient Efficiency:
With iodine on your side, the body becomes a nutrient-utilizing pro.
Get ready to extract maximum energy and goodness from meals.

✨ Temperature Regulation Magic
Iodine-influenced thyroid hormones help maintain body temperature.
Keep that internal thermostat in check for overall metabolic bliss.

✨ Growth, Development, and Beyond
Iodine is a must for growth, especially during critical phases like infancy and pregnancy.
It supports the development of the central nervous system, ensuring a strong foundation for life.

✨ Immune Support
There's a potential link between iodine and a resilient immune system.
Ensure your body's defence mechanism is ready to tackle whatever comes its way.

✨ Harmony in Hormones:
Iodine is a key player in synthesizing hormones across the endocrine system.
Enjoy hormonal balance, paving the way for metabolic stability.

Incorporating iodine into your pets' diet is very simple. Simply sprink some of our 'Salt & Pepper' seasoning over their main meal for an incredible iodine boost &PepperSeasoning 🌿🌐

14/02/2024

🌬️ Breathe Easy Elixir: Unleash the Power of Nature for Respiratory Wellness! 🌿🐾

Is your furry friend facing respiratory challenges? Our Breath Easy Elixir, enriched with nature's finest ingredients, offers a holistic solution for a breath of fresh air. Let's delve into the magic of its key components:

✨ Mullein - Nature's Respiratory Ally
Centuries of Wisdom: Verbascum, known as Mullein, has been a folk medicine staple for ages.
Respiratory Marvel: Inhibits the growth of pathogens, making it effective for bronchial congestion, bronchitis, dry coughs, and more.
Canine Health Champion: Specifically beneficial for managing kennel cough, addressing inflammation, and inhibiting the growth of respiratory pathogens.

✨ Thyme - Respiratory and Gut Guardian
Gut Harmony: Treats gut dysbiosis, maintaining balance in gut microbiota.
Lung Love: Fights lung infections and clears sinus congestion.
Vitamin Powerhouse: Rich in vitamins A and C, essential for healthy mucus membranes, skin, vision, and immune resilience (Hammoudi et al., 2022).

✨ Marshmallow - Nature's Soothing Embrace:
Antimicrobial Marvel: Combats bacteria and fungi, offering a robust defence against infections.
Inflammation Fighter: Reduces inflammation in various conditions, including respiratory challenges.
Immunomodulatory Magic: Enhances immune activities for adaptive support.
Respiratory Rescue: Soothes inflamed tissues, reduces swelling, and eases respiratory congestion and dry coughs (Kianitalaei et al., 2019).

Give your pet the gift of easy breathing with our Breath Easy Elixir. Because their well-being is our priority! 🐾✨

🛍️ Order Now: Embrace respiratory wellness the natural way! 🌬️🐶

13/02/2024

🌟 Unlocking the Immune System Magic! 🦠

Ever wondered how your (and your pets') body fights off invaders? Meet the superheroes - White Blood Cells! 🦸‍♂️🦸‍♀️ Let's break it down:

🔍 Detection Heroes: White Blood Cells have a special radar for trouble - they detect invaders like bacteria or viruses in your body.

🤜 Engulf & Neutralize: White Blood Cells surround and engulf invaders through a process called phagocytosis. They trap the baddies in a bubble (phagosome) and unleash powerful enzymes to neutralize the threat.

🧹 Clean-Up Crew: Once the enemy is destroyed, they are also the clean-up crew, disposing of the defeated invaders and leaving the body safe and sound.

🚀 Power-Ups: By introducing herbs and supplements into the diet that are designed to support your immune system enables them to act faster and with more accuracy 💪

Spread the knowledge! Share to empower your friends with the immune system's secret weapon: White Blood Cells and Phagocytosis! 🌐🩸

12/02/2024

🌿 Tranquil Elixir by The Animal Herbalist🐾✨

Discover a revolutionary solution to ease your pet's anxiety and foster a sense of tranquillity with our expertly crafted Tranquil Elixir

✨ Peppermint Powerhouse
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and beyond (Zhao et al., 2022).
- Pharmacological Shield: Protects gastrointestinal, liver, kidney, skin, respiratory, brain, and nervous systems.

✨ Chamomile Bliss
- Calming Elixir: Frequently used as a mild sedative for nerves and anxiety (Srivastava et al., 2010).
- Digestive Relaxant: A trusted remedy for gastrointestinal disturbances, promoting overall digestive health.
- Cardiovascular and Immune Support: Enhances cardiovascular conditions, stimulates the immune system, and offers protection against cancer.

✨ St. John's Wort Uplift
- Neurotransmitter Boost: Acts as a reuptake inhibitor of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.
- Beyond Antidepressant: Anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects contribute to overall well-being.

✨ Lemon Balm Magic
- Rich Medicinal History: Praised by Paracelsus over 2000 years ago for nervous system rejuvenation.
- Modern Validation: Mild sedative, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and more (Kennedy et al., 2002).
- Anti-Depressive and Cardiovascular Protection: Supported by recent studies confirming its phytotherapeutic impact (Safari et al., 2023).

Simply add 20 drops to your pet's food for a dose of daily calm

08/02/2024

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) - Ancient Wisdom, Modern Benefits

With a medicinal history dating back over 2000 years, has been recommended for its remarkable rejuvenating properties. Paracelsus (pioneer of the 'medical revolution' of the Renaissance) praised it as a remedy for ailments related to the nervous system, advocating its use to completely revivify individuals.

Modern research aligns with this historical acclaim, highlighting lemon balm as a mild sedative, spasmolytic (relieving spasms of smooth muscle), and antibacterial agent (Kennedy et al., 2002). Furthermore, studies suggest many health benefits, ranging from anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to anti-depressive and anti-diabetic effects (Scholey et al., 2014; Safari et al., 2023).

Lemon balm not only contributes to overall brain health but also exhibits anti-depression, anti-anxiety, and cardiovascular protective effects. Recent findings even confirm its phytotherapeutic impact by reducing stress-related biomarkers (Safari et al., 2023).

Lemon Balm plays a key role in our Tranquil Elixir that helps soothe and relax our furry friends

References
Scholey A, Gibbs A, Neale C, Perry N, Ossoukhova A, Bilog V, Kras M, Scholz C, Sass M, Buchwald-Werner S. Anti-stress effects of lemon balm-containing foods. Nutrients. 2014 Oct 30;6(11):4805-21. doi: 10.3390/nu6114805. PMID: 25360512; PMCID: PMC4245564.

Kennedy DO, Scholey AB, Tildesley NT, Perry EK, Wesnes KA. Modulation of mood and cognitive performance following acute administration of Melissa officinalis (lemon balm). Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2002 Jul;72(4):953-64. doi: 10.1016/s0091-3057(02)00777-3. PMID: 12062586.

Safari, M., Asadi, A., Aryaeian, N. et al. The effects of melissa officinalis on depression and anxiety in type 2 diabetes patients with depression: a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled clinical trial. BMC Complement Med Ther 23, 140 (2023).

07/02/2024

Here at The Animal Herbalist, we are always improving our products. Our dog rolls were a huge hit but we have made some small changes; the same great and local ingredients but now available in 1kg vacuum-sealed packs to retain freshness and defrosts quickly.

$17 each or Weekly Supply available
Small Dog (under 10kg, 250g serve) - $34
Medium Dog (10-25kg, 500g serve) - $65
Large Dog (over 25kg, 1kg serve) - $100

Packs can be frozen for up to 3 months and once opened refrigerated for 3 days

Beef, lamb & pork mince, beef heart, organic carrots, parsley, turnips, oat bran
Recommend including our 'Salt & Pepper Seasoning' and raw bones for a complete and nutritionally balanced meal. Order 2 x weekly packs and receive a FREE 'Salt & Pepper' Seasoning (limited stock so be quick!)

Pickup Yapeen or an additional $15 for delivery
Order through the website or contact through direct message
https://www.theanimalherbalist.com.au/product/canine-vitality-dog-food/11?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=2

01/02/2024

Mullein: A Natural Remedy for Respiratory Infections, Including Kennel Cough
Scientifically known as Verbascum, has been a staple in folk medicine across cultures for centuries. Recent research has shed light on the various therapeutic properties of mullein, particularly recognized for its inhibitory effects on the growth of pathogens associated with respiratory infections. Mullein was found to be effective in managing irritating coughs with bronchial congestion, addressing various respiratory problems such as bronchitis, dry coughs, whooping cough, tuberculosis, asthma, and hoarseness.

Mullein in Canine Health – Kennel Cough
Kennel cough, a common respiratory infection in dogs, can be caused by various pathogens, including Bordetella bronchiseptica, and secondary infections by Gram-negative bacteria like Pseudomonas sp., Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. As a demulcent, mullein helps relieve inflammation in the respiratory tract, soothing irritation and promoting healing. Additionally, its antiviral and bacteriostatic actions play a crucial role in inhibiting the growth of pathogens responsible for respiratory infections.

Our Breathe Easy Elixir is in pre-order and launching next week! Add 20 drops into your dog's food daily for a preventative approach against Kennel Cough

References
Blanco-Salas et al., 2021, ‘Searching for Scientific Explanations for the Uses of Spanish Folk Medicine: A Review on the Case of Mullein (Verbascum, Scrophulariaceae), doi: 10.3390/biology10070618
Turker AU, Gurel E. Common mullein (Verbascum thapsus L.): recent advances in research. Phytother Res. 2005, doi: 10.1002/ptr.1653.
Tonozzi, C., 2022, 'Kennel Cough: Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis' https://buff.ly/3HK0Vjf

31/01/2024

'Salt & Pepper' Supplement Seasoning
Combining seaweed and farm-raised chicken eggs gives your pet an egg-cellent source of calcium and iodine. These minerals increase motility in joints and improve their coats. Desexing animals removes one of the major endocrine organs and places extra pressure on the thyroid. Leading to an increased susceptibility to skin conditions, allergies and obesity if not supplemented with iodine. Seaweed is an excellent source of iodine and other essential vitamins and minerals.

Simply season our 'Salt & Pepper' Supplement Seasoning over their main meal for a convenient and nutritious daily boost. Suitable for all companion and hobby farm animals.

Adequate intake of calcium is especially important for animals that are growing, pregnant, aging and active.

References
Rovenský J et al., 2003, 'Eggshell calcium in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis,' Int J Clin Pharmacol Res. 23(2-3):83-92. PMID: 15018022.

30/01/2024

One of my majors for my Veterinary Science degree was Immunology and it quickly became one of the most fascinating systems in the mammalian system. There is a whole army including special ops whose sole purpose is to keep the body alive. With multiple lines of defence, speciality units and tactics to destroy any foreign body that breeches the barriers.

My focus is that through targeted nutrition we can support the immune system to be more effective and efficient at killing pathogens (viruses, bacteria, fungi) and detecting cancer

One of my favourite resources is 'Immune: A Journey Into the Mysterious System That Keeps You Alive' by Phillip Dettmer. Animals have a very similar system in which they fight foreign bodies, therefore if we can support phagocytosis (white blood cells' ability to engulf bacteria) and natural killer cell detection (yes that is a real cell), they have a better chance of fighting off bacteria, naturally.

Every Tuesday, we will dive a little deeper into the Immune System and ways we can support this incredible world living inside us

29/01/2024

Meet Raven’s Future Partner 🐾✨ picking him up on Sunday, any name suggestions??

23/01/2024

Who doesn't adore watching their fur babies dash around with endless energy? 🐶✨ But let's talk about a silent hero in our pets' daily adventures – their joints. Ever noticed them slowing down or dealing with achy joints? It could be inflammation quietly making its presence known.

Inflammation is like a ninja, often sneaking up without us noticing – characterized by redness, swelling, heat, pain, and a touch of "I just don't feel like playing today" from your furry friend. It's the body's way of saying, "Hold up, something's not right here!".

Just like us, the more they use those joints, the more pampering and attention they deserve. Whether it's a noticeable scrape or those sneaky internal twinges from all the fetching and playing, inflammation is just part of our pet's life.

🌟 Introducing the Joint and Immune Elixir! 🌟

This high-potency elixir is not just a remedy; it's prevention in a bottle. It's your pet's shield against the silent battles happening within. Packed with goodness to soothe those joints and support the immune system. Turmeric might just be their new best friend. It's said to assist in tackling exercise-induced inflammation and muscle soreness, giving the body the boost it needs for a speedy recovery and enhanced performance (Hewlings & Kalman, 2017).

So, let's keep those tails wagging and those paws dancing with the Joint and Immune Elixir. Because a happy pet is a healthy pet!

10/11/2023

Our little 3 week old bunnies enjoyed their first afternoon outside in the clover patch 🍀 These little darlings have been growing so fast with some gorgeous coat colouring and density. We have increased their iron intake with sprouted sunflower seeds to help support their growth

23/10/2023

Our 9 day old darlings ✨ Raven’s first litter was delivered last Saturday with 4 beautiful little pebbles