Herbs are an excellent addition to your dog's everyday diet and wellness routines. Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties, these natural remedies support digestion, boost immunity, reduce stress, and promote overall wellness. So boost your dog’s health with the power of nature. However, consulting your vet before adding any new herb to your dog's diet is crucial.
- Turmeric [Haldi]
- Cumin seeds [Jeera]
- Carom seeds [Ajwain]
- Asafoetida [Heeing]
- Coriander [Dhaniya]
- Mint [Pudina]
1. Turmeric [Haldi]
Add a small amount of turmeric powder directly to your dog’s food. Start with a smaller dose and gradually increase it over time. For better absorption, mix turmeric with coconut oil. For additional benefits, add a pinch of black pepper.
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Start Gradually
Always introduce turmeric slowly to monitor your dog's reaction and avoid potential digestive problems. -
Mix Directly with Food
Sprinkle turmeric powder directly onto your dog's regular food for easy administration. -
Consider a Golden Paste
You can also prepare a turmeric paste by mixing turmeric powder with water and coconut oil. Now top up their food with this paste. -
Black Pepper Boost
Adding a small amount of black pepper can significantly increase turmeric's absorption in your dog's body. -
Consult Your Vet
Some dogs may experience gastric upset or an allergic reaction to turmeric. So before introducing turmeric to your dog, always consult your veterinarian to ensure it is suitable for them and discuss the correct dosage.
2. Cumin Seeds [Jeera]
Dogs can eat cumin seeds in small amounts as a flavoured supplement to their food or homemade treats. Cumin offers several health benefits like boosting digestion, aiding in weight management due to its metabolic boost, and providing necessary antioxidants. Other potential benefits also include immune system support and improved digestion due to its digestive enzymes. However, it is important to note that dogs can only tolerate small quantities of cumin and too much cumin can cause stomach upset and digestive issues in dogs.
3. Carom Seeds [Ajwain]
Carom seeds, also known as ajwain seeds, are beneficial for dogs in several ways, including:
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Digestive Health
Ajwain seeds can help to ease indigestion, bloating, and gas. They can also treat peptic ulcers and sores in the stomach, oesophagus, and intestines. -
Non-toxic
Ajwain seeds are generally non-toxic to dogs and are safe for pet-friendly homes. -
Muscle Health
Carom seeds are considered a warming herb that can benefit a dog's muscle health. -
Antioxidants
Carom seeds are rich in antioxidants that can help fight cancer.
4. Asafoetida [Heeing]
Adding a small amount of asafoetida to a dog's diet may potentially help with digestion by acting as a carminative, reducing bloating and gas, thanks to its ability to stimulate digestive enzymes and bile flow, making it beneficial for dogs experiencing occasional digestive upset or flatulence. Key potential benefits of asafoetida for dogs:
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Aids digestion:
Asafoetida is known for its digestive-stimulating properties, which can help with gas, bloating, and discomfort in the stomach. -
Reduces appetite loss:
By improving digestion, it may help dogs with a decreased appetite eat more readily. -
Anti-spasmodic effect:
May help alleviate stomach cramps or spasms due to its antispasmodic properties. -
Potential anti-inflammatory effects:
Some studies suggest asafoetida may have anti-inflammatory properties which could be beneficial for dogs with certain digestive issues.
However, it's important to use it in very small quantities due to its strong odor and potential for irritation, and always consult your veterinarian before adding any new supplement to your dog's diet.
5. Coriander Leaves [Dhaniya]
Coriander, also known as cilantro, can have several health benefits for dogs, including:
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Digestion: Coriander can ease nausea, flatulence, and diarrhea. It can also soothe stomach upset and digestive issues.
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Parasites: Coriander has antiparasitic effects that can help control worms and parasites.
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Blood clotting: It is rich in vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting.
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Cell growth: Coriander leaves are also rich in folate, which supports cell growth.
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Immune system: Coriander is high in antioxidants, vitamin A, and vitamin C, which support a healthy immune system.
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Skin: Coriander is high in vitamin K, which also promotes healthy skin.
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Bones: Coriander is a good source of magnesium, calcium, manganese, and potassium, which strengthen the bones.
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Breath: Coriander freshens up your dog's breath.
You can add coriander to your dog's diet by sprinkling ground coriander over their meal, making homemade treats, or using cilantro pops. However, you should never give coriander to pregnant or lactating dogs, as it may cause uterine spasms or stimulate milk production.
6. Mint [Pudina]
Mint can be added to your dog's diet by sprinkling a little fresh or dried mint over their food o making homemade biscuits with mint. It has several health benefits for dogs, including:
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Freshens breath: Mint's cooling effect on the tongue eliminates bad breath
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Aids digestion: It regulates digestion, similar to how mint tea is used by humans
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Anti-inflammatory: Mint has anti-inflammatory properties
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Antioxidants: Mint is a rich source of antioxidants that protect against cell oxidation and free radical damage
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Nutrients: Mint is enriched with vitamins A and C, as well as calcium, magnesium, iron, copper, and zinc
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Seasonal allergies: The rosmarinic acid in mint relieves seasonal allergies
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Nasal decongestant: The natural menthol in mint acts as a nasal decongestant
However, not all mint varieties are safe for dogs. Pennyroyal mint is toxic to dogs and should be avoided completely. Feeding too much mint can also cause gastrointestinal distress. If your dog eats mint and experiences vomiting, diarrhea, or weakness, you should call your vet immediately.
Remember:
Before introducing any of these spices to your pet, always consult your veterinarian. Your dog can be allergic to any of these ingredients. Thus, seek veterinary advice on the right quantity based on their age, breed and body weight. All these spices are healthy for your dog’s health but you should always feed them in moderation.
