Christine Barwell

Why use Essential Oils?

Essential oils offer a holistic approach to improve the emotional and physical well-being of the horse. They have many varied healing properties, working in a very gentle way by supporting the body’s own innate ability to heal itself.

In its natural habitat horses would seek out whatever plants they needed to balance their emotional or physical systems. Nowadays, however, this is no longer possible and so the horse relies on us to take care of its well-being.

Essential oils contain the important life force that is found within nature and which is missing from the production of scientifically produced alternatives. It is this life force energy which creates balance, whether that be stimulating, sedating or healing. An example of this is the oil Rose, which can calm a mare showing marish tendencies or help bring a mare into season.

Horses are extremely sensitive to smell. This is paramount to their survival, being used in the selection of food, mother and foal bonding, greeting and assessing other members of the herd, and, being prey animals, used in conjunction with hearing to detect predators. Knowing instinctively which essential oil they (horses) need at any given moment is what makes Equine Essential Oil Therapy so fascinating. Horses will only choose those oils which will support its desire for balance, emotionally and/or physically. In doing so they use their very refined sense of smell to determine which oil, or oils, they need.

Using Kinesiology and a sample of the animal’s hair, the correct oils can be ascertained very quickly. Thus each animal is treated as an individual and receives only those oils which are indicated at any given time. Occasionally, and after a period of time, it may be necessary to alter the combination of oils being given. This is because the body will deal with the problems presenting in a very specific way according to the needs of the animal at the time. It can be likened to peeling an onion, when the outer layer has been dealt with (removed) then the next layer becomes visible and presents itself for healing.

Another point of note is that horses will only accept the oils for as long as is deemed necessary  knowing intuitively when to stop. Occasionally, having turned away from an oil for a period of time, a horse will go back to a particular oil after the initial benefits have been activated within the body. A horse will know exactly how much and for how long a particular oil is needed and in the case of more than one oil, will also know in which order they should be assimilated.

What is Equine Essential Oil Therapy?

Essential oils are concentrated herbal medicines that horses (and other animals) respond to exceptionally well. Each oil carries the characteristic smell of the particular plant from which it is derived and also it’s healing properties.

The pure essential oils are obtained from a wide assortment of plants, which have been distilled or cold-pressed from flowers, fruit, bark and roots.

The use of essential oils goes back many thousands of years and there is evidence that many ancient civilisations were aware of, and made use of, their therapeutic properties. Indeed, as late as the mid nineteenth century all remedies, for a variety of problems, both physical and emotional, were derived from plants.

You will be given precise instructions on how to offer the oils to your horse, for how long, how much to give and what to be aware of before, during and after application.  The following information is provided simply to give an insight into the use of the oils.

You should test the horse’s response to each separate oil before application.

For a very keen response the selected oil(s) can be applied to the nostrils, and/or poll area, or can be licked off your hand – taking the necessary precautions. Your horse will decide which is the best method for him and it may be that a combination or just one method is indicated. The oils can also be offered in a hollowed out (small) piece of carrot or apple once you have ascertained the horse’s interest.

Twice a day for a very keen interest.
Once a day when interest is moderate 
Discontinue if horse loses interest (turns away)

For conditions of an external nature such as:
Aches and sprains, arthritis, mud fever sweet itch and wounds.  
Apply twice a day for 3-5 days and then once a day or as required.

• Behavioural Problems, Fears and Phobias
• Dermatitis and other Skin Problems
• Mud Fever, Sweet Itch, Thrush
• Bites, Cuts, Sores etc.
• Immune System and General Health, Respiratory and Digestion
• Hormone Imbalance
• Allergies

Contact  E-mail  

The initial consultation, muscle test and the first essential oils, including p& p will cost £40.00, payable in advance.

Combination Mixes
Whilst combination mixes are available for every day use they can still be tailored to individual needs when required.  Contact E-mail

Aches and Sprains Gel
Relieves aches, sprains and bruising on horses and humans. Ideal for that unexpected knock or injury that does not require veterinary attention. Contains essential oils to help reduce inflammation and swelling, promote circulation to the area, and helps break down lactic acid build up thus supporting the healing process. In an easily absorbed gel base. Equally effective on humans.                
Note: Not to be used on broken skin. 
Cost: from £10.00 (incl. p & p) 
To order now by E-mail

Arthritis Gel
Relieves the effects of arthritis. Contains essential oils which help soothe the area by promoting circulation and reducing inflammation. In an easy to use gel base.
Note: Not to be used on broken skin. 
Cost: from £10.00 (incl. p & p) 
To order now E-mail

Mud Fever Gel
Helps relieve the symptoms of mud fever. Contains essential oils that assist in clearing any infection that may be present, assist in skin repair and promote hair growth. In an easy to use Aloe Vera gel base. 
Cost: from £10.00 (incl. p & p)
To order now E-mail

Fly Spray
Fly repellent spray. Contains essential oils known to be unpopular with anything that flies.  
To order now E-mail

Made to Order Gels
A variety of gels can be made up for specific wounds or skin complaints in accordance with the needs of the individual animal.   
To discuss your requirements E-mail

If you think that Equine Essential Oil Therapy can help your horse or you wish to discuss any aspect of essential oil therapy, please contact Christine  by phone or by E-mail

Important Note
It is not intended that Equine Essential Oil Therapy should replace proper Veterinary care. Please refer to your Veterinarian if you are at all concerned about the welfare of your horse. Veterinary approval must be sort before embarking upon treatment using essential oils.