Healing with Herbs
Sylvia Orr, a member of our society, who had a great suggestion for a column, recently approached me. She wanted to know what she could do for one of her Westies that she thought might be having an inner ear problem, and she wanted to avoid giving antibiotics. So, with her suggestion, I thought I'd devote some space just for the purpose of teaching about some common and natural treatments to try for various health issues. Do bear in mind that I follow the philosophy of holistic medicine, where each animal is viewed as a unique individual and therefore, what might work for one, may not be the right "treatment or remedy" for another. Holistic healing focuses on the balance of mind, body, spirit, and environment. Allopathic medicine (your typical veterinary care today) simply treats the symptoms. Always remember, however, that if you are in doubt about a medical problem, contact your holistic or allopathic veterinarian first. All herbal products can be purchased at either health food stores or on the Internet at various places such as Avena Botanicals.
EYES
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes and soft tissue surrounding the eye. The problem occurs when fungi, bacteria, or other foreign substances come in contact with these tissues and tearing fails to eliminate the irritation elements. Most cases are acute and are caused by dust, plant material, or other irritants. Oregon Grape, a plant, is a member of the barberry family. The part used are the roots. Primary medicinal activities include anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory so Oregon grape is effective in treating conjunctivitis where it fights infection and reduces inflammation. A bitter yellow alkaloid called berberine is primarily responsible for the strong anti-microbial activity of the Oregon grape.
Holistic healing focuses on the balance of mind, body, spirit, and environment. |
In fact, these properties have been shown to be more effective than some forms of prescription antibiotics, when used against various forms of staphylococci. Berberine has also been shown to be active against E. coli and giardiasis, a parasitic infestation of the digestive tract that is difficult to remedy.
Dilute 4 drops of the alcohol tincture or liquid herbal extract (Herb Pharm), or 8 drops of a root decoction, into 1 ounce of sterile saline (available anywhere where contact lens supplies are sold). Use a clean/sterile ounce dropper bottle, preferable amber in color. If you have a used one, wash it out thoroughly and then boil in water for 5-10 minutes (not the rubber on the dropper, however). Place a few drops of the dilution into the infected eye(s), taking note of any discomfort that may result from the berberine or the alcohol content of the tincture. If the solution appears to irritate the eyes, dilute it with more saline and flush the eyes with plain saline before applying more solution. Add the drops twice a day for 2-5 days and monitor the eyes each day to be sure they are improving. If you see no improvement within two days, or worsening, do not delay to consult your veterinarian. My 12 - year old Westie, Jimmy, developed an acute conjuncivitis in this right eyes within three days, his eye was back to normal. I also supported his immune system challenge during this time and his recovery was completed without using antibiotics, other drugs or a trip to the vets. If healing can be accomplished without having to use antibiotics or spending a good bit of money at the vets, then it's a win-win situation, in my opinion.
Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) is an anti-inflammatory and astringent and used for conjunctivitis and other minor eye irritations. I use it for eyestrain myself, especially after long hours on the computer. Use the alcohol free herbal extract (Nature's Answer). Add half a dropper to ½ ounce of sterile saline. Shake well before use. Add two drops to eyes two to three times a day. Do not use on dogs during pregnancy or lactation.
To avoid eye irritation during bathing, add some boric acid lubricating eye ointment that you can obtain at any drug store or add a drop of mineral oil to each eye with a clean dropper. Do not use baby oil as it has perfume in it.
The two herbs mentioned are only the tip of the iceberg of herbs used for various eye problems. Try to purchase and use only certified organic herbs for the best results. There are many other herbal recipes for eyewashes and treatments. To have them at your fingertips, the book to have in your library is "Herbs for Pets", by Mary L. Wulff-Tilford and Gregory L. Tilford, internationally known herbalist. Their book is available on amazon.com and is a wealth of education.
{Christine Swingle has been a breeder/exhibitor of Westies, under the Bonnie Brier prefix, since 1964. Since 1996, she now raises her Westies the Natural Rearing way, which focuses on long-term wellness and well being through feeding a species-appropriate raw food diet (ARF), supporting natural immunity and using safer and natural alternatives to conventional drugs and chemicals.}
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