I just read an article that stated “Don’t feed Willow, Birch, Poplar, Alder or the herb Meadowsweet if your rabbit is on Metacam (Meloxicam). To me it makes sense and you may want to err on the side of caution. Please read this article here.
Healing Herbs have been used by humans in some cultures for millennia and is now starting to gain a resurgence and popularity within our own. So why not use herbs for our pet rabbits too? While studies of healing herbs are mainly done on humans, the truth of the matter is that animals in the wild, rabbits, instinctively know what they need to eat to help them heal or to feel better.
The domesticated rabbit has been taken out of it’s natural surroundings for hundreds of years now and might not even know what it would need when it is feeling ill. Looking at the properties of healing herbs, one could gather how they might be used as a preventative measure to promote a pet rabbits health and well being.
It’s important to offer herbs in moderation and ensure they are free from pesticides or other contaminants. After purchasing herbs, make sure to give a thorough washing. Introduce new herbs gradually and monitor your rabbit’s response and digestive tolerance. Remove any uneaten portions promptly to prevent spoilage.
Herbs in any form can be given however it is preferable to give fresh herbs as they contain the water content to dilute things such as calcium. Looking for a great enrichment idea? Create a forage box by mixing dried herbs with hay! This will keep your bun occupied for hours!
While some healing herbs can offer benefits, they should not replace a rabbit’s primary diet of high-quality hay, fresh vegetables, and a small amount of pellets. For example, a 4 pound rabbit can have 2 cups (or 2 adult handfuls) of fresh greens per day. Herbs can be included in your greens. And as always, if you suspect an illness in your rabbit, please contact your vet.
Healing Herbs
The following healing herbs are your typical garden variety. Although there are many more healing herbs (wild, flowering and weed) I did not include them in this article… that will be another post. Some of these, if not most, you may be familiar with by using them in your day to day cooking. Maybe you never even thought of them as “healing herbs”, but just simply as delicious. Your bunny will feel the same once he or she starts to eat them! These herbs can be grown quite easily whether it is in a garden, in clay pots on a balcony or patio or even in a windowsill. And don’t forget to use my pro-tip #6!
Basil
Basil is a good source of essential nutrients, including vitamins A, B6, C, and K, as well as several important minerals, such as iron, calcium, and magnesium. It is an anti-inflammatory which can help to alleviate symptoms of arthritis. Basil may help reduce gas and bloating while aiding in digestion. It is believed to have adaptogenic properties, which means it may help with stress. Because it is an antibacterial, it can help kill bacteria in the mouth helping to prevent infections making it a good choice for rabbits with abscesses or tooth issues. Basil also helps to stimulate appetite and is great for the skin and fur!
Cilantro/Coriander
Cilantro is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C and K, potassium, iron, copper and folates. It is an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial making it great for the immune system! Cilantro may help soothe digestive discomfort by reducing gas and bloating and helps alleviate symptoms of UTI’s. Cilantro also contains geraniol which is known to help prevent tumors. This is one of the healing herbs I recommend giving regularly.
Dill
Dill is high in protein & fiber, rich in vitamins A, C and K, folate, calcium, and minerals iron, magnesium, potassium and sodium. It improves digestion & can eliminate bloating. It is an antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory. Dill is believed to have calming and stress-reducing effects making it ideal for skiddish rabbits. Dill is also great for upset tummies.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal contains berberine, which kills many forms of bacteria. It is an immune boosting anti-inflammatory great for rabbits that get infections of any kind. It is a natural antibiotic and aids in healing bladder infections.
Lavender
Lavender is widely recognized for its calming and soothing properties. Lavender is a good source of vitamins A & C, calcium, magnesium and iron. It helps with circulation, nervousness and exhaustion. It is an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and lends itself in supporting the immune system and protecting against infections. The flowers act as a mild tranquilizer making this is a great herb for buns who are stressed out.
Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm is an antibacterial and antiviral herb. It helps with bloat, gas, diarrhea and stress.
Mint
Mint, more specifically peppermint, is a good source of iron, magnesium, potassium, copper, manganese, and vitamin A. Mint may help aid in digestion by relieving gas and bloating, and relaxing the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract. And it helps to firm up loose stools! This herb helps to control appetite, making it useful for rabbits that are overweight. Because of it’s refreshing flavor, it naturally freshens the breath. Being an anti-inflammatory, it can soothe gum irritation as well as help alleviate the symptoms of arthritis. Mint is also a natural analgesic (pain reliever) and anti-convulsant making it a good herb for rabbits that have had a seizure. NOTE: If your rabbit has a seizure or has had a seizure, it is imperative to see your exotic vet. This is not to be used in place of medical treatment. Also avoid prolonged use and do not give to babies.
Oregano
Oregano is full of essential nutrients such as vitamins A, C and K, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium and calcium. It is an antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory herb making this great to use for recovery after surgery to prevent secondary infections. It aids in digestion, stimulates appetite and purifies blood. Like Cilantro, this herb also contains geraniol which helps prevent tumors. This is my second favorite of the healing herbs to give regularly. NOTE: although my rabbits enjoy this herb fresh, they do not care for it dried.
Parsley
Parsley is a low-calorie herb that packs a nutritional punch. It’s an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, E & K, and folate. It also contains small amounts of calcium, potassium, and iron. The herb helps to enrich the blood. Parsley, is good for the stomach, helping to aid in digestion as well as inflammation of bladder and kidneys. It’s an anti-inflammatory, a natural diuretic and an immune booster. NOTE: Parsley does contain a relatively high level of oxalates which could potentially affect the liver over time so this should be an occasional herb.
Plantain
Plantain leaves are high in vitamins A & C. They are antimicrobial and antispasmodic which makes it a great herb for healing cuts, fevers, and diarrhea. The leaves help with UTI’s and gastric inflammation. You can feed the leaves directly or press the juice from them to syringe feed. It is a great herb for the mucous membranes. Plantain is another of the healing herbs to be fed regularly.
Rosemary
Rosemary contains vitamins A, B6 & C, folate, calcium, iron, magnesium and manganese. It has antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Rosemary stimulates the appetite and kidneys, aids in digestion by alleviating symptoms of bloating, enhances circulation and helps with wound healing. It can also help with depression.
Sage
Sage is a good source of potassium, iron and vitamin K. It is an antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory. NOTE: This is a digestive and uterine stimulant and should be used sparingly and with caution.
Tarragon
Tarragon is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, B6, C & K, and calcium. It is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Tarragon stimulates the kidney which is helpful in deworming. This herb can also be used to aid in digestion.
Thyme
Thyme contains vitamins A & C, potassium and magnesium. It has antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also an antispasmodic, disinfecting fungicide making this another herb to be fed regularly. Thyme can aid in digestion and helps with coccidia (intestinal parasites) and diarrhea. NOTE: if your rabbit has parasites it is important to see your exotic vet and get proper treatment.
Watercress
Watercress is an aquatic herb grown for salads so this is a perfect green to give your bun! It is rich in nutrients such as vitamins A, B6, C, E & K, folate, calcium, iron, thiamine, potassium and iodine. With all of it’s nutrients, this is one of the best healing herbs to give! It helps to stimulate appetite as well as aid in digestion. Cress is known to help purify the blood. If you ever wanted to dabble in hydroponic gardening, this is the herb for you to grow for your buns!
Freshness Counts
Choosing Herbs: did you ever stop to think about what herbs you are buying or where they are from? There are regular, organic, seasonal and locally grown from farmer’s markets. Plus you have the option of growing your own! No matter which way you choose to get your healing herbs, as always fresh is best!
Cleaning Herbs: since we have no way of knowing if pesticides have been used when purchasing from the market, it is extremely important to thoroughly wash your herbs before giving them to your bun. I do this as soon as I get home from the store or even when I pick them from my garden. I have found the best way to was them is to trim the stems for a fresh cut, submerge them in my salad spinner with a splash of vinegar for a few minutes then rinse 2-3 times and spin away!. I then place a layer of paper towels on a sheet tray and spread the herbs out to dry. If I am prepping a lot of herbs, I will do it in layers.
Storing Herbs: once the herbs are dry, roll them up in a paper towel and place in a large Ziplock bag in the fridge. The herbs can last several days this way. (doubtful you will be storing for long, lol, they will be gone in no time) Alternatively, you can place the herbs in a mason jar with some water in the bottom and store in the fridge.
!!Toxic Herbs!!
It’s important to remember that rabbits are delicate animals, and not all herbs are safe and some are downright toxic. You can find a list of poisonous plants here.
If you believe your bun has ingested an unsafe herb (or any plant), get to your vet immediately. ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center has round-the-clock availability in case you’re unsure about whether an herb is safe or not. Their phone number is (888) 426-4435.
Symptoms could include intestinal upset and inflammation, diarrhea, loss of appetite, fever or low body temperature, seizures, lethargy, weakness and depression.
Healing herbs, when included as part of your rabbits normal diet can help make an impact on them being able to live their best life! Just for fun plant some herbs in a terracotta pot and watch your bun nibble away!
