Dandelions in Horse Forage
Dandelions evoke a range of emotions in people, especially when their bright yellow flowers emerge in the spring. For some, these plants are an unwelcome sight, disrupting the uniform appearance of a freshly mowed lawn with their irregular growth. Others, however, appreciate the cheerful color and the whimsical, puffy seed heads that dandelions produce, finding beauty and delight in their presence.
Beyond their visual impact, dandelions play a significant role in horse pastures. Horses are naturally drawn to these plants, seeking them out and consuming them with enthusiasm, as noted by Archer (1973). The appeal of dandelions to horses is not just about taste; these plants are also a valuable source of micronutrients. Research by Fairbairn & Brynmor (1959) highlighted that dandelions contain beneficial levels of iron, manganese, copper, and cobalt. Their study concluded that dandelions rank among the most nutritious forage plants available, making them an excellent addition to the diet of grazing horses.
In addition to their nutritional value, dandelions have a long history of use as natural remedies for various ailments. According to Lans et al. (2006), dandelions have been used to address digestive issues and to help lower blood pressure. The same authors also describe a traditional practice in which dandelions are given to horses for three days following races. This is believed to help reduce swelling in the legs and alleviate difficulties with urination, demonstrating the plant’s versatility and importance in animal care.
Dandelions are a great thing to see in horse pastures in spring. They provide nutrients and can be used as remedies. The plants are readily eaten by horses. Dandelions are one of the many wonderful plants that horses will seek out, just like they would in the wild.
References:
Archer, Marytavy. "The species preferences of grazing horses." Grass and Forage Science 28.3 (1973): 123-128.
Cointreau, Maya. Equine Herbs & Healing: An Earth Lodge Guide to Horse Wellness. Lulu. com, 2005.
Fairbairn, C. B., and Brynmor Thomas. "The potential nutritive value of some weeds common to North‐Eastern England." Grass and Forage Science 14.1 (1959): 36-46.
Lans, Cheryl, et al. "Ethnoveterinary medicines used for horses in Trinidad and in British Columbia, Canada." Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 2.1 (2006): 31.