Applied Equine Zoopharmacognosy Workshop at Whitethorn Farm

Whitethorn Farm at the base of Knocknashee

​Last weekend we held the first Equine Zoopharmacognosy Workshop at Whitethorn Farm. It was an absolute resounding success, with participants from a wide range of the equestrian world – including veterinary, supplement manufacturers and medicinal herbalists.
Participants journeyed from as far as Wexford and Cork to spend two days learning the theory and practice of Applied Zoopharmacognosy. The first day kicked off with a presentation giving an insight as to how and why and on why horses self-medicate. This was followed by a demonstration with a mare Tizzy, that we have worked with previously.  She selected mostly supporting constitutional herbs.

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Sandy selecting from Kate

​The second day, following a short presentation, the students worked on two horses to actively gain an appreciation of the process. The first pony, Sandy had ‘riggish’ behaviour and was very quick to engage and become involved.  His modus operandi became established very quickly by selecting oils and then turning his back on us and processing.  Vetiver and Vanilla were his favourite which are selected for aggression and hormonal imbalances.

 Gordon, our second participant, was a little more sensitive and trickier, selecting oils and herbs for cleansing –lemon, lime and nettles.  He also selected Lavender and Mimosa – both oils for nervous horses - although Mimosa is often selected for grief too.

Gordon, between the Lemon and Lime

Debbie recording the chosen selections

The open discussion encouraged participants to engage in free-flowing thought, questioning and probing the concept of horses self-selecting.  By the end of the weekend, as can often happen at these workshops, all were firm buddies !

 Of course, we also had plenty of craic and all in all it was a great start to what will hopefully be a long line of learning experiences in the form of workshops at Whitethorn Farm !