To give your dog herbs, you can use the fresh or dried variety. Add a sprinkle of herbs to your dog’s food for best results. You can mix them into your dog’s food as a safe way to give them a little nutrition boost. Some of these herbs can help the body’s immune system fight off some of the diseases that are commonly associated with aging.
Oregano
Although it is known more for being a culinary spice than a healing agent, oregano is a good herb for dogs. High in antioxidants and flavonoids, oregano is also a microbial. This herb can help dogs with digestive problems, diarrhea and gas. It has also been shown that oregano has antifungal properties. Derived from oregano, oregano oil has recently earned some media attention for its use in chicken feed. Many livestock farmers are using it to replace antibiotics to keep their poultry and livestock disease-free. Phenols in oregano oil known as carvacrol and thymol have the ability to kill harmful bacteria and microbes. For dogs, you can apply oil of oregano topically or it can be taken orally or diffused. Try giving your dog 2 to 3 drops, three times a day.
Basil
Another herb known for helping make foods delicious is basil. It is also approved as a helpful herb for dogs. It is known for its antioxidant, antiviral and antimicrobial properties. Basil has been known to help alleviate the effects of arthritis, which also affects dogs. The essential oils found in basil contain valuable compounds which can benefit your dog, just as they can for you. Basil also has large amounts of beta-caryophyllene which is known to be helpful in treating inflammatory bowel disease. It contains anti-fungal and insect-repelling capabilities. Just sprinkle a little fresh basil over your dog’s food from time to time for a nice health boost.
Parsley
A source of flavonoids, antioxidants and vitamins, parsley is another herb that is great for dogs. It contains Vitamin C, Vitamin K, carotenoids, B vitamins and iron. It also contains an oil called limonene that is known to kill bad mouth bacteria. It is often added to dog treats as a breath freshener. It also works wonders to soothe the stomach. It can be a great way to boost the immune system. To give parsley to your dog, chop it up and mix a small amount of it with the dog’s food.
Aloe Vera
Whether used internally or externally, aloe vera is very good for your dog. Its medicinal value has been appreciated since ancient times. It helps to heal wounds and even stomach ulcers in people. Aloe vera has an antiseptic property that helps to prevent the growth of bacteria. Applied topically, the natural aloe vera gel coming from the plant can be used to treat burns, scrapes and minor irritations. If your dog has gas, constipation and infections, you can give them aloe vera internally to calm it down.
Cinnamon
One of the best sources of antioxidants, cinnamon has a lot of great benefits for your dog. Cinnamon is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. It works to help fight sepsis and diabetes in dogs. Cinnamon can help to remove the aflatoxins that are present in your dog’s food. It is an excellent source of calcium, fiber and manganese. It is a natural anti-clotting agent, and antimicrobial. Cinnamon is also great for helping to fight halitosis or bad breath in dogs. You can easily sprinkle a bit of it into your dog’s food.