I. Introduction
Hemp products are becoming increasingly popular among horse owners who are seeking natural solutions for their equine companions. Hemp oil and hemp granules are two of the most common forms of hemp products used for horses. While both offer similar benefits, there are some key differences between the two that may make one more suitable for your horse than the other. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of using hemp horse granules over hemp oil for horses. By the end of this post, you’ll have a better understanding of what hemp horse granules are, their unique benefits, and why they may be the better choice for your horse’s health and well-being. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or new to the equine world, understanding the benefits of hemp horse granules can help you make an informed decision about your horse’s health and give them the best care possible.
II. What are hemp horse granules?
Hemp horse granules are a natural, plant-based supplement made from hemp seeds that are ground into small granules. These granules are rich in essential fatty acids, protein, and other nutrients that are important for your horse’s overall health and well-being. Hemp granules for horses are typically made from industrial hemp, which is a strain of the Cannabis sativa plant that is specifically bred to have low levels of THC, the psychoactive compound that produces a “high” in humans and animals. Because hemp granules contain only trace amounts of THC, they are non-intoxicating and safe for horses to consume. Hemp horse granules are often used as a dietary supplement to help support a horse’s immune system, improve digestion, and promote overall wellness.
III. The Benefits of Hemp Horse Granules
Hemp horse granules offer a variety of benefits for horses, including:
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Hemp granules contain high levels of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. This makes hemp granules a great choice for horses with inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis.
- Digestive support: Hemp granules are rich in fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion in horses. The high fiber content also makes hemp granules a great choice for horses that are prone to colic.
- Immune system support: Hemp granules are rich in antioxidants, which can help support your horse’s immune system and reduce oxidative stress.
- Joint health: Hemp granules contain glucosamine and chondroitin, which are important for maintaining healthy joints in horses.
- Calming effects: Some horse owners report that hemp granules have a calming effect on their horses, making them a useful supplement for horses that are anxious or easily stressed.
- Coat health: Hemp granules are rich in essential fatty acids that can help promote a healthy coat and skin in horses. The fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy hair growth.
- Cardiovascular health: Hemp granules are rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which have been shown to support cardiovascular health in horses.
- Energy: Hemp granules are a great source of protein and carbohydrates, which can provide energy for horses that are in heavy work or training.
- Nutrient absorption: The high fiber content of hemp granules can help improve nutrient absorption in horses, which can promote overall health and well-being.
- Anti-anxiety effects: In addition to their calming effects, some horse owners report that hemp granules have anti-anxiety effects that can help horses relax and feel more comfortable in stressful situations.
In the next sections, we’ll take a closer look at these benefits and explore why hemp horse granules may be a better choice than hemp oil for horses.
IV. Hemp Horse Granules vs. Hemp Oil
While both hemp horse granules and hemp oil are derived from the hemp plant, there are several key differences between the two supplements.
- Nutrient density: Hemp granules contain a higher concentration of nutrients, including protein, fiber, and minerals, than hemp oil.
- Digestibility: Hemp granules are more digestible than hemp oil because they are less concentrated and contain more fiber.
- Palatability: Hemp granules have a mild, nutty flavor that many horses enjoy, while hemp oil has a strong, sometimes unpleasant taste that some horses may refuse.
- Ease of use: Hemp granules are easy to measure and feed to horses, while hemp oil can be messy and difficult to measure accurately.
- Shelf life: Hemp granules have a longer shelf life than hemp oil, which can become rancid quickly and lose its potency.
- Portability: Hemp granules are more portable and easier to take on the go than hemp oil, which requires special handling to prevent spills and leaks.
- Consistency: Hemp granules provide a consistent dosage per serving, while hemp oil dosages can vary depending on the concentration of the product.
- Digestive health: Hemp granules contain prebiotic fiber that can help support digestive health in horses, while hemp oil does not have this benefit.
- Cost-effectiveness: Hemp granules are often more cost-effective than hemp oil because they are less concentrated and require less product per serving.
- Formulation: Hemp granules are often formulated with other beneficial ingredients like probiotics, vitamins, and minerals to provide additional health benefits, while hemp oil is typically a standalone product.
By understanding these differences, horse owners can make an informed decision about which supplement is best for their horse’s unique needs.
In the next sections, we’ll take a closer look at each of these differences and explore why hemp horse granules may be a better choice than hemp oil for horses.
V. Hemp Horse Granules and Joint Health
One of the most significant benefits of hemp horse granules is their potential to support joint health in horses.
Hemp granules contain high levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and support overall joint health. These fatty acids can also improve skin and coat health, making hemp granules a great supplement for horses with skin and coat issues.
In addition to omega fatty acids, hemp granules also contain antioxidants, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. This can be particularly beneficial for horses that are prone to joint issues, as well as those that engage in high-intensity activities.
A 2018 study published in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science found that horses supplemented with hemp oil experienced improved joint mobility and reduced pain compared to horses that did not receive the supplement. While this study focused on hemp oil, hemp granules may offer similar benefits, particularly because of their higher nutrient density and digestibility.
By supporting joint health and reducing inflammation in the body, hemp horse granules may help horses perform at their best, particularly as they age or engage in demanding activities.
VI. Using Hemp Horse Granules as a Digestive Aid
Horses are prone to digestive issues, and hemp horse granules can help support a healthy digestive system.
Hemp granules are rich in fiber, which can help regulate the digestive system and improve gut health. The prebiotic fiber found in hemp granules can also promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which can help reduce the risk of digestive issues like colic and diarrhea.
In addition to fiber, hemp granules contain amino acids and other nutrients that can support overall digestive health. These nutrients may also help reduce inflammation in the gut and prevent the development of certain digestive disorders.
Hemp horse granules can also help support liver health, which is critical for proper digestion and toxin removal in the body. The liver is responsible for breaking down and eliminating toxins, and by supporting liver function, hemp granules can help keep the body free of harmful substances that can lead to digestive issues and other health problems.
By incorporating hemp horse granules into their horse’s diet, owners can help promote a healthy digestive system and reduce the risk of common digestive issues.
VII. Hemp Horse Granules and Allergies
Horses, like people, can suffer from allergies, which can manifest as skin irritations, respiratory issues, and digestive problems. Hemp horse granules can be a beneficial supplement for horses with allergies.
Hemp granules are rich in nutrients that can support a healthy immune system, including vitamins E and B, magnesium, and zinc. By supporting immune system health, hemp granules can help reduce the frequency and severity of allergic reactions.
Hemp granules also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a common symptom of allergies, and by reducing it, hemp granules can help alleviate symptoms like skin irritation, itching, and respiratory issues.
In addition to omega-3 fatty acids, hemp granules also contain gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that can help reduce inflammation and promote skin and coat health. GLA has been shown to be particularly effective in reducing symptoms of atopic dermatitis, a common skin allergy in horses.
By incorporating hemp horse granules into their horse’s diet, owners can help reduce the frequency and severity of allergic reactions and promote overall immune system health.
References:
- “Hemp Seed in Horse Diets.” EquiMed. https://equimed.com/nutrition/what-to-feed-your-horse/hemp-seed-in-horse-diets.
- “Nutrition of the Senior Horse.” Merck Veterinary Manual. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/equine/aging-in-horses/nutrition-of-the-senior-horse.
- “Hemp Oil vs Hemp Meal: What’s the Difference?” The Horse. https://thehorse.com/136900/hemp-oil-vs-hemp-meal-whats-the-difference/.
- “Feeding Oils to Horses.” Kentucky Equine Research. https://ker.com/equinews/feeding-oils-horses/.
- “The Benefits of Antioxidants for Horses.” Equine Wellness Magazine. https://equinewellnessmagazine.com/the-benefits-of-antioxidants-for-horses/.
- “The Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Horses.” The Spruce Pets. https://www.thesprucepets.com/the-benefits-of-omega-3-fatty-acids-for-horses-1885996.
- “The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Horse Nutrition.” Kentucky Equine Research. https://ker.com/equinews/role-vitamins-minerals-horse-nutrition/.
- “Hemp Seed for Horses: A Look at the Benefits.” Horse Rookie. https://horserookie.com/hemp-seed-for-horses/.