Clay is a natural element that has been used by humans and animals since the beginning of time. Animals will eat clay, drink water from a hole filled with clay and roll into it for various reasons.
Aromatherapy is an excellent natural therapy for horses and dogs, not for cats though. Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils as a therapy to certain physical and mental ailments. When essential oils penetrate the bloodstream, they release their components that act on the various systems of the body and promote self-healing.
Animals react well to it and it is easy to use as long as you know which essential oils to use on your pets.
Herbology is the use of plants for healing and their therapeutic value. Herb plants produce and contain a variety of chemical compounds that act upon the body and are used to prevent or treat disease and promote health and well being.
This method describes the making of a herbal tincture that you can then use on your pet.
You will need:
jar with a lid (around 500ml)
80-100 proof alcohol like Brandy or Vodka
dried or fresh herbs
a big bowl
cheese cloth
dark glass bottle(s)
Fresh herbs:
You will need 1 part of fresh herbs for 2 parts of alcohol.
Chop the herbs and pack them in the jar. Cover with alcohol. Ensure the liquid has filled the jar completely. you might need to push down the herbs a little to allow this.
More herbs you pack in the jar, the greater the tincture will be.
Dried herbs:
You will need 1 part of dried herbs for 4 parts of alcohol.
Pack the herbs in the jar and fill it with alcohol. You might need to wait a little and keep filling it as the herbs absorbs the liquid.
Storage:
Seal the jar and store it in a dark place like a cupboard for about 4 to 6 weeks.
Straining:
After the allowed time, strain the herbs by putting a cheese cloth over a bowl. You might need to squeeze all the liquid out of the herbs.
Pour the liquid in dark glass bottles and label them with the name of the herb or herbs and the date. Tinctures last for many years if stored away from sunlight and in a cool place.