You put a lot of time, money, and care into your mares and foals, so as a horse breeder, you really want to do all you can to ensure your mares' and foals' health. In addition to a good diet and proper vet care, one thing you may want to consider is adding various herbal supplements to your mares' routines. Here are a few specific herbal supplements that tend to work well for broodmares and their foals.

Fennel Seed

Fennel seed is an herb that is known to help stimulate milk production in mares. It can also help soothe the digestive tract, which may encourage mares to eat more, thereby providing better nourishment for them and their nursing foals. Usually, it is not recommended to supplement with fennel seed while the mare is still pregnant. Rather, you would begin giving this supplement as soon as the mare foals. It's a good choice for any mares who have had trouble nursing in the past and for first-time dams whose milk production you are not sure of.

Raspberry Leaf

Raspberry leaf is a good supplement to start feeding your broodmares prior to breeding. It helps regulate their hormone levels in general, which may make mares more comfortable during their estrus cycles. Mares who are given this supplement may be easier to handle for breeding, which reduces the risk of injuries both to human handlers and to the stallion. You can continue giving raspberry leaf supplements once a mare is pregnant. It will help maintain the tone of the uterus to ensure an easier delivery.

Rosehips

Rosehips are a good herbal source of many nutrients that mares need during pregnancy. They provide the B vitamins thiamine, niacin, and riboflavin, and they're also a good source of antioxidants to help ward off infection. You can begin feeding rosehips prior to breeding and continue through pregnancy and lactation.

Hawthorne Leaf

Hawthorne leaf is an herb known for its ability to support and improve circulation. When give prior to breeding, it can help ensure a healthy uterine lining. During pregnancy, it can help ensure the placenta develops a healthy blood flow, which is important for a healthy foal. Hawthorne leaf can also help with milk production, especially when a mare first begins lactating.

Supplementing your breeding mares' diets with one or more of the above herbs can be a simple way to promote better health overall. Contact a company that sells equine supplements for breeders to learn more.

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