Living close to the ground, dogs
encounter a wide variety of irritants as part of their daily lives. Exposure to
lawn or pool chemicals, road salts, pollens, viruses and bacteria, or long-term
use of medications can cause some dogs to suffer from itching, swelling, skin
problems, and other minor illnesses. Over time these irritants can affect your
dog’s natural immunity.
When asked to develop a remedy
that could safely help dogs with immune system issues, I found several essential
oils that have historically been used to bolster the immune system and support the
lungs, liver and skin. While essential oils such as lemon, eucalyptus, tea
tree, cinnamon, bay and thyme can do that, I wanted to formulate something that
is both powerful and gentle. Three essential oils really stood out – niaouli,
ravensare and frankincense.
Niaouli (Melaleuca viridiflora) is an Australian tree that is related to tea
tree. It has similar properties to tea tree, a much more pleasant scent, and is
gentler to the skin and mucous membranes. Niaouli has been used in remedies for
first aid, and to soothe skin disorders such as herpes, roundworm, sores and
abscesses. It is helpful with viral, fungal and bacterial infections, including
those that affect the ears and throat. As a natural antihistamine, niaouli can
help relieve allergic reactions, especially those affecting the skin and ears.
Ravensare (Ravensara aromatica) is a tree that is related to the bay laurel
and is native to Madagascar. It is a gentle yet powerful antiviral and
antibacterial that can help support the immune system. Ravensare has been used
in remedies to relieve flu, sore throat, bronchitis, fibromyalgia, mononucleosis,
chronic fatigue and shingles. Some canine practitioners have used ravensare to
help dogs with compromised immune systems or during the vaccination cycle.
Frankincense (Boswellia
carterii) has been an important commodity both socially and economically.
It was used for thousands of years in incense, perfumes, and embalming agents,
and more recently studied for its antitumoral activity. Frankincense is
nontoxic and nonirritating to tissues, and because of its anti-inflammatory,
antiseptic, antifungal and astringent properties, it’s been used in
preparations for wounds, acne and boils, and to relieve dry, chapped or
maturing skin. Frankincense can help support the lungs and immune system to
relieve colds, flu, bronchitis and asthma. It has also been shown to slow and
deepen respiration, which allows feelings of calmness, comfort and serenity – simply
inhaling the scent of frankincense can be soothing during unsettling times.
Using pure essential oils of
niaouli, ravensare and frankincense, either singly or in combination can help
your dog (and you!) find relief from itching, sneezing and other symptoms
related to environmental irritants. Earth
Heart’s formulation of these three essential oils is called Guard Well (instructions and ingredients here), and is
currently available as a water-based mist or diffusion blend.
As with any home remedy, it is important to know and
follow the use and safety guidelines, and to recognize when it is time for
professional help from your veterinarian. Here’s to a sneeze-free, itch-free
year using (safely diluted) essential oils!
