Essential Oils Around the Barnyard

Essential Oils Around the Barnyard

 

Its been over a year since I first began to research how to incorporate essential oils and recipes using them into my life. Since I began I have replaced many of our cleaning products, over the counter remedies and cosmetics with essential oils and blends.

My first thought now when I get a skin wound or cut is to grab a few essential oils and mix with some fractionated coconut oil, to make an ointment with natural antiseptic properties. If I overindulge in yummy food and end up with a stomach issue, I have discovered and used oils for that, also. Sore muscles and joints are also treated with oil blends for relief.

Naturally, I began to look into replacing animal health care products with essential oil concoctions that I make at home. There are some differences to be aware of as not all oils are appropriate or safe for use on animals. Animals cannot always communicate that there is a problem, and some oils may burn skin (called Hot Oils) or upset a problem and make it worse. I want to share with you the ones I have determined are safe to use on my animals and that I have tried with success.

 

Frankincense

One of the oils that is safe for most creatures including humans and animals is Frankincense. This essential oil really packs a big punch in the case of inflammation, and healing properties. I find it reduces the soreness of wounds too, probably because of the antibacterial properties. 

Tea Tree Oil

An ancient essential oil,  tea tree oil, possesses anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. Because of these properties Tea Tree Essential Oil is effective against hoof rot, rain rot and other mild hoof problems. Simply add the 30 drops of Tea Tree essential oil to 16 ounces of filtered water and spray on the affected  hooves. Repeat as you would treat with any other anti fungal treatment. 

Lemon

Cleaning your tack and tools around the barnyard can be a non toxic task when you use cleaning products made from essential oils and water. Lemon is a powerful cleaning essential oil, and smells refreshing, too. Lemon essential oil has antibacterial properties so it also helps disinfect what ever you are cleaning. 

 

Some General Guidelines

When you are using essential oils around your animals, always make sure you are using diluted strengths. Some oils, such as peppermint or oregano are considered “hot” oils and can burn skin. Always research the oil and its uses before using on any animal or child and make sure that you dilute the oil with an oil such as fractionated (liquid) coconut oil or liquid almond oil before applying. 

 

 I hope that this information will encourage you to try using essential oils for cleaning, disinfecting and healing around your barnyard too. If you would like more information, you are welcome to leave a comment here, or email me at garmanjanet@gmail.com. 

 

Disclaimer :  Please always consult your veterinarian before you use any homemade remedy on your animals if you feel there is any question as to it’s safety for that animal. I am not a veterinarian and post these recipes as a way of sharing information that I have had success with in my own animals and farm and home.