Hops for horses: Natural support for rest and digestion

Hops (Humulus lupulus) are far more than just an ingredient in brewing beer—they are a versatile medicinal plant with beneficial effects for horses. Hops can be a valuable addition to horse feed, especially in stressful situations, for gastrointestinal complaints, or to support the nerves.

In this article, you will learn why hops are so valuable for horses, which active ingredients are crucial, and how best to feed them.

What is hop and why is it interesting for horses?

Hops is a perennial climbing plant whose flowers—the so-called hop cones—contain many valuable compounds. The most well-known active ingredients are the bitter acids humulone and lupulone, which are primarily known for their calming and digestive properties.

While hops are responsible for the typical aroma and bitterness in beer brewing, they can be used in horse feeding as a single feed or in combination with other herbs such as valerian root.

The effect of hops on horses

Hops have a number of positive effects on the organism of horses:

1. Calming effect and nerve support

Hops can help horses calm down, especially during stressful situations such as transport, competitions, or changing stables. The bitter substances they contain have a relaxing effect on the nervous system and promote inner balance. Especially in combination with valerian root, hops can improve your horse's resilience and promote greater composure.

2. Supports digestion

Horses are sensitive to changes in diet or stress, which often leads to gastrointestinal problems such as mild colic or digestive tract disturbances. Hop flowers contain active ingredients that regulate intestinal activity and promote the growth of healthy intestinal bacteria. This can prevent mild colic and support general digestion.

3. Natural strengthening of the immune system

The bitter substances and bitter acids contained in hops not only have a soothing effect on the nerves and digestion, but also have antibacterial properties. This makes hops a valuable medicinal plant for horses prone to infections or gastrointestinal complaints.

How can hops be used in horse feed?

Hops can be fed in different forms, depending on the effect you want to achieve:

• Dried hop flowers or hop cones : These can be added to the feed and are particularly good for soothing and supporting the digestive tract.

• Hops extract or powder : A concentrated form that can be used specifically during stressful times or for digestive problems.

• Hops as a component of herbal mixtures : Often combined with other calming or digestive herbs such as valerian root, chamomile or fennel.

Dosage and application

The correct dosage depends on the horse's size and individual needs. As a rough guide, you can give your horse 5 to 15 grams of dried hop flowers Mix into the food. If you are unsure or have existing health problems, you should consult a veterinarian or nutrition expert.

Hops as a natural alternative to synthetic sedatives

Many horse owners resort to chemical sedatives in stressful situations – but nature can offer a gentle and sustainable solution. Hops have the advantage of not only having a relaxing effect, but also supporting digestion and strengthening the immune system. Furthermore, it is well-tolerated as a single feed and can be fed long-term without side effects.

Conclusion: Hops – More than just a component of beer

Whether as support for the nerves, to promote digestion or to generally stabilize well-being – hops are a valuable addition to your horse's diet.

Thanks to its calming and digestive properties, it helps your horse adapt better to stressful situations and remain more resilient. If you're looking for a natural and proven medicinal plant that can help your horse in a gentle way, hops is an excellent choice.