Introduction to Hemp in Equine Nutrition
Hemp is gaining popularity as a nutritional supplement for horses. This versatile plant has a rich history of use in animal diets. Understanding the benefits of feeding hemp to horses is essential for any horse owner.
Nutritional Value of Hemp
Hemp is a rich source of essential nutrients. It contains:
Essential Fatty Acids: Hemp is packed with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which are vital for overall health.
High Protein Content: The protein in hemp provides essential amino acids necessary for muscle development and repair.
Vitamins and Minerals: Hemp is abundant in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, all crucial for wellness.
Health Benefits of Hemp for Horses
Hemp offers numerous health benefits for horses. Here are some key advantages:
Improved Coat Condition: The Omega fatty acids in hemp contribute to a shiny and healthy coat.
Enhanced Joint Health: Hemp's anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce joint pain and stiffness.
Support for Immune System: Antioxidants found in hemp strengthen the immune response.
Behavioral and Psychological Benefits
Hemp can also positively impact a horse's behavior:
Calming Effects: Hemp may help reduce anxiety and stress in horses.
Improved Focus and Concentration: Nutritional support from hemp can lead to better behavior during training and riding.
Digestive Health
Hemp supports digestive health in several ways:
Gut Health: The soluble fiber in hemp helps maintain a healthy digestive system.
Colic Prevention: Regular inclusion of hemp in the diet could reduce the incidence of digestive issues.
The Rise of Hemp in the Horse Industry
In the horse industry, the use of hemp is on the rise. Hemp is a plant with a wide array of applications, from medicine to fabric and ropes. Vital Equine focuses on unlocking the equine nutritional benefits from hemp seeds. Our hemp seed products for horses are all-natural and have not been chemically or genetically manipulated.
Hemp seeds are the most nutrient-dense part of the plant. They contain approximately 20% protein, 6% carbohydrates, and 73% healthy fats. They are rich in calcium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, and vitamins A and E.
Only the seeds of the plant contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid that the body cannot produce, so it must be consumed through diet.
Key Health Benefits of Hemp for Horses
Let’s delve deeper into the advantages of hemp for horses. Your mare or foal will be amazed by the results:
Good Source of Energy: Hemp is a superfood that can help with joint pain and inflammation.
Digestibility: It is easily digestible in the hindgut, making it convenient for horses.
Improved Stamina: Perfect for late-gestation pregnant mares with a lower appetite but higher energy requirements.
Calmer Behavior: When fed as a supplementary energy source to cereal grains, it stimulates calmer behavior in horses.
Allergy Relief: Hemp can help horses with allergies and skin problems.
Support for Cushing's Disease: It may assist horses with Equine Cushing's Disease (PPID) and insulin resistance.
Weight Management: Highly digestible, it can be a cost-effective way to supplement their diet with extra calories without making them fizzy.
Digestive Health: It can help horses maintain or gain weight while healing digestive disorders.
Metabolic Function: Promotes metabolic function and vitality.
Respiratory Health: Acts as a natural expectorant and bronchodilator.
Performance Support: Helps reduce heart rate during exercise and provides high-performance support.
Reproductive Aid
Hemp oil's nutrient-dense vitamins may aid in the health of horses' reproductive systems. Omega-3 fatty acids can boost hormone concentration, which aids in fertility and the growth and development of the horse embryo. Hemp has nutrients that support milk production, providing energy and stamina to both the mare and the stallion. A stallion with sufficient stamina can breed with multiple mares and produce healthy sperm.
Hemp Seed Protein
Hemp can be added to your horse's feed as a protein powder to boost protein levels. This protein powder can help horses gain muscle, similar to its effects on humans. While horses can obtain protein from their daily meals, certain hemp products can enhance protein and vitamin absorption. Hemp protein powder is an excellent plant-based protein source, outperforming soybeans gram for gram.
A foal's diet should contain 12-18% crude protein. Adequate protein levels support the growth and development of young horses. A fully matured horse typically requires less protein, ranging from 8 to 12%.
Hemp Essential Fatty Acids
In the plant kingdom, hemp seed oil has the highest level of polyunsaturated fats and one of the lowest levels of saturated fats. It is an efficient source of nutritional energy, as it is cold-pressed from the seeds at low temperatures, preserving all its nutrients. Only a few spoonfuls are needed each day.
Hemp seed oil is a fantastic addition to your horse's diet. It must be refrigerated in warmer weather, which may be inconvenient depending on your stables. It could be easier to feed the seeds, but they should also be kept cool. In the summer, you can store a few days’ worth at the barn and the rest at home in air conditioning.
Hemp Oil for Hair and Tail Health
The long mane and tail of a horse are often the first things people notice. The journey to healthier hair begins from the inside. Giving your horse an oral dose of hemp oil daily can work wonders.
Hemp oil contains vitamin E, which strengthens and adds shine to the hair. The fatty acids in hemp promote hair development. Proper mane and tail care, along with hemp oil, will create a lustrous shine. Hemp oil can be applied directly to specific areas and massaged or brushed in to enhance shine and growth.
Science supports these claims! Veterinarian researchers recommend administering hemp in the off-season for performance horses to help with pain, anxiety, and post-operative recovery.
Directions for Use
Hemp Oil: 20-30ml of hemp oil is usually fed twice a day. High-performance horses may require 50-90ml twice a day.
Hemp Feed: 250g-500g per day may be necessary for extremely hard-working, sore, injured, or lighter-weight ponies.
For rescued, skeletal, or badly injured horses that need their diseases relieved and nutrition restored after neglect or injury, up to 1.5kg per day may be necessary. Feed rates can be reduced as desired until they reach maintenance levels.
Conclusion
In conclusion, incorporating hemp into your horse's diet can lead to numerous health benefits. From improved coat condition to enhanced joint health, the advantages are clear. Explore the potential of hemp for your equine companions today!
Hemp is not just a trend; it’s a natural choice that supports your horse's overall well-being. By choosing hemp, you are making a confident, informed decision for your horse's health.
