Herbal Recipes

Here are some simple recipes that will help certain issues that your pooch may have:

Turmeric paste can aid joint care and mobility. Fabulous for our senior pooches or pooches that have some form of inflammation, like arthritis.
Nettle tea is great for pooches who suffer with allergies as it rammed full of natural antihistamines.
Herbal frozen treats are great to play with in the summer months and can help freshen breath.
Chamomile and Lavender and wonderful for relaxing anxious dogs.
Digestive relief tea does exactly what it says on the tin and will calm the digestive system.
Dandelion tincture helps support the liver and aids the immune system.

Remember to consult a professional before giving any herbs to your pooch. Also, start small and watch for adverse reactions.

Turmeric Paste

Ingredients:

1/2 cup of turmeric powder

1 cup of water

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/4 cup of coconut oil

Method:

Combine the turmeric powder and the water in a small saucepan over a low heat. Stir constantly until it forms a paste. Add the black pepper and coconut oil and mix well. Allow the paste to cool before storing in a glass jar in the fridge.

Give your senior dog a small amount of the paste with their food.

Nettle Tea

This recipe is as easy as making a cup of tea!!

Ingredients:

1 cup of dried nettle leaves OR 2 cups of fresh nettle leaves.

4 cups of water

Method:

If you are using fresh nettles, wash them before use to remove any dirt or debris.

Bring a small saucepan of the water to boil.

Add the nettle leaves and turn the heat to low. Let the leaves simmer for 10 to 15 minutes and then remove the saucepan from the heat.

Strain the tea and let it cool completely before giving to your pooch.

You can give 1/4 to 1/2 a cup daily depending on their size and health. I find the easiest way to administer the tea is to pop it in their drinking water or on their food.

Herbal Frozen Treats

A lot of dogs love to play with ice cubes especially in the summer months so why not make them as healthful as you can?! Here is a selection of herbs you can add to the water before you freeze them.

Parsley to freshen breath.
Mint to soothe tummies and also freshen breath.
Ginger helps with inflammation.
Chamomile can help with anxiety.
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in joint mobility.
Dill can help with digestion.

Chamomile and Lavender Cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup of oat flour

1/2 cup of rolled oats

1/4 cup of dried chamomile flowers

1/4 cup of dried lavender flowers

1/4 cup unsweetened apple sauce

1/4 cup of water

Method:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees (180C)

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper

In a bowl, combine all dry ingredients.

In a separate bowl, combine the applesauce and water.

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, stirring until a dough forms. If it's a bit dry add a splash of water.

Roll out the dough on a floured surface to approx 1/4 inch thick. Cut out desired shapes and put them on the baking sheet.

Bake for approx 15 to 20 minutes or until they are lightly golden brown.

Allow the cookies to cool before giving them to your pooch.

Digestive Relief Tea

Another cup of tea reciep, this time for digestive relief.

Ingredients:

1 part dried peppermint leaves

1 part dried fennel seeds

1 part dried chamomile flowers

Add these together and mix thoroughly.

To make the tea, take 1 to 2 teaspoons of the herb mixture and add to a cup of hot water. Let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes, then strain out the herbs.

Allow the tea to cool completely before offering it to your pooch.

Dandelion Tincture

Harvest fresh dandelion roots, leaves and flowers making sure that they are free from pesticides and other chemicals.

Wash everything thoroughly and chop them into small pieces.
Place the chopped dandelion into a clean glass jar.
Por enough high-proof alcohol (such as vodka or brandy) over the herbs and ensure they are completely covered.
Shake the jar well and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 4 to 6 weeks. Shake it occasionally.
After the steeping period is over, strain the liquid through a fine cheesecloth into a new clean jar.
Your dandelion tincture is now ready to use.
Get professional advice on dosage levels as alcohol can be toxic for dogs..