When the summer heat hits hard, we’re all looking for ways to keep our horses cool, comfortable, and healthy. One of my favorite go-to tools for summer horse care? Peppermint essential oil! It’s not only refreshing but also offers some practical benefits when it comes to equine wellness.
Here are two easy ways you can use peppermint essential oil for summer horse care:
☀️ Quick Cool Down
Add 2-3 drops of peppermint essential oil to a bucket of cool water and give your horse a relaxing sponge bath. It’s a quick and natural way to help lower their body temperature, soothe tired muscles, and keep them feeling fresh.
Caution: If your horse has been working hard, make sure to avoid the large muscle groups. Applying cold water when a horse is just coming off heavy exertion and sweating heavily may lead to a condition called tying up. Instead, just sponge the large veins of the neck (jugular) and the lower limbs to start.
💧 Encouraging Hydration
Is your horse drinking less water in the heat? Try adding a few drops of peppermint essential oil to a 5-gallon bucket of water to encourage hydration. Not only do horses love the taste, but peppermint can also support a healthy digestive system—especially important when the risk of colic is higher in summer.
🌿 Want More Natural Essential Oil Tips?
Access my FREE Barn Essential Oils 101 Class and learn how to build a safe and healthy, natural routine using tried-and-true methods with essential oils at your barn. You’ll get exclusive tips, product suggestions, tons of recipes and more!
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This information is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or condition, nor is it meant to replace regular veterinary care. Always remember to consult your veterinarian before beginning any treatment plan on your horse!
Lisa Generali-Perez is a Certified Equine Massage Therapist (CEMT), with multiple certifications from several different equine bodywork schools. She incorporates her knowledge and experience with Parelli Natural Horsemanship, equine bodywork, using essential oils for animals and as a veterinary technician to provide her clients with the resources they need to make informed decisions for their horses. She encourages and facilitates network building between equine health care professionals, working together to find the best combination of therapies to meet the needs of the “whole horse”.