Heather – an herb without extra energy

Heather (Calluna vulgaris) is used in feeding when you want to add herbal plants alongside the basic diet without extra energy. It is not a sweet, green or stimulating plant, but a bitter herb that is used thoughtfully as part of a varied diet.

Heather is not a "revved-up energy" herb. On the contrary, it is often chosen in situations where the horse is already receiving sufficient energy, but you want to add an herbal supplement to the diet without making the overall ration any more energising.

When is heather used?

Heather is typically used:

• when the horse is already well fed and doesn't need an extra boost

• when sweet or green herbs are not desired

• as part of an herbal course, not as a continuous daily supplement
  

Heather from barren landscapes

Heather is bitter and its taste and structure differ clearly from green leafy plants. In nature, it represents plants from harsher growing environments, which horses encounter for example on forest pastures.

For this reason, heather is used in small amounts and with consideration.

Tannins and astringent nature – what does it mean in feeding?

Heather flowers naturally contain tannins, which give the plant its astringent and bitter taste. This means that heather:

• is not loosening

• is not juicy or sweet

• belongs to the "drier" category of herbs

Therefore, heather is used in different situations than green leafy plants or energy-rich herbs.

Flavonoids and other natural compounds

Heather naturally contains flavonoids, flavone glycosides, organic acids and other compounds naturally found in plants. These are a natural part of heather and influence the plant's taste and properties.

Dosage:

Horse (approx. 500 kg):
2 tbsp – 0,5 dl (approx. 10–20 g) per day

• 1 tbsp ≈ 5 g

• Mix into the regular feed

Please note

Not suitable for pregnant mares.
Natural products are always used as part of the overall diet.