We are always on the lookout for better ways to keep our pet patients healthier, and happier, for longer. Increasingly, this means taking an integrative approach that combines conventional treatments with natural options, such as CBD, herbal remedies, and adaptogens.
Adaptogens, in particular, are making their way into more and more veterinary practices. As natural substances that help the body adapt to stress and normalize bodily processes, they have shown promising benefits for pet patient health, with the likes of cordyceps mushrooms, Astragalus, and Valerian root already widely used. Lately, however, it is three lesser-known, if no less potent, adaptogens – licorice root, Siberian ginseng, and ashwagandha – that have tongues, and tails, wagging.
Let’s explore how these three adaptogens work, what their pet health benefits are, and how to incorporate them into your practice.
Adaptogens: A Quick Recap
Adaptogens are herbs that help bring balance to various systems within the body. Unlike stimulants or suppressants, adaptogens:
- Work by harmonizing physiological responses.
- Are safe when used long-term.
More specifically, many adaptogens work by helping to regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Here’s how this works to benefit our furry patients:
- Balances Hormones: By regulating hormones, they help deal with several diseases, as well as promote overall health.
- Boosts Immune Function: By enhancing the body’s ability to cope with stressors, they help boost overall immune health, and offer some relief from stress itself.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Many adaptogens can modulate inflammation, making them great remedies for joint and tissue issues.
Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Overview: Licorice root – especially in its deglycyrrhizinated (DGL) form – helps maintain healthy inflammatory responses and other immune-boosting properties. DGL also has flavonoids and other compounds that exhibit similar benefits relative to inflammatory responses and antioxidant effects.
For Pets: DGL can be particularly beneficial in managing inflammatory conditions and boosting immune health. It also offers protective benefits for the liver and can help soothe gastrointestinal issues. Little wonder that DGL is included in pet health supplements – like ThorneVet’s Immune Support Formula – to help modulate inflammation and support the overall health of pets, particularly those with chronic health issues.
Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus)
Overview: Not to be confused with Panax ginseng, Siberian ginseng is well known for its ability to enhance physical stamina and strengthen the immune system.
For Pets: Traditionally used to combat stress and fatigue, this adaptogen works by up-regulating the activity of the body’s immune cells. Siberian ginseng is an excellent choice for stressed pets or those recovering from illness.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Overview: Ashwagandha root extract, revered in Ayurvedic medicine for more than 3,000 years, is gaining recognition for its many benefits in veterinary medicine. KSM-66 Ashwagandha pure root extract is a highly regarded and potent form that:
- Supports the adrenal glands
- Reduces anxiety
- Enhances overall immune function
For Pets: KSM-66 Ashwagandha helps manage stress-related behaviors and improves overall well-being. It also has recognized antioxidant properties further supporting immune health.
The Take-Away
For vets looking to expand their therapeutic toolkit, understanding and utilizing these three lesser known adaptogens can provide a potent pet health boost. The simplest place to start? ThorneVet’s Immune Support Formula: a carefully crafted blend that leverages the synergistic effects of deglycyrrhizinated licorice, Siberian ginseng, and KSM-66 Ashwagandha (among 18 other ingredients), to offer a multi-faceted approach to pet health.
AUTHOR PROFILE
Dr. Keith Weingardt is a 1999 graduate of Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. He completed acupuncture certification from the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society in 2004 and certification in herbal medicine at the Chi Institute of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine in 2006. He has started successful integrative veterinary practices in San Diego, CA and Portland, OR. He is a dedicated herbalist and enjoys working with the plants of the Pacific Northwest. Currently, he works as a consultant for ThorneVet, specializing in product development and continuing education.
