What is animal herbal self selection?

Wild animals naturally forage and have been observed seeking out and selecting substances on which to self-medicate.  This can be the selection of not only plants and foliage, but also minerals, which can be found in soils and clays.  On taking up substances and/or plant constituents this could relieve their issue or address an imbalance in their body.  This is known as zoopharmacognosy, and this method of self-selection also applies to, and is observed in, domesticated animals.

At a self-selection consultation session a range of dried and/or fresh plants, hydrosols and gentle essential oils are offered.   We also look to bring a range of seasonally foraged plant materials, and those that can be grown in your garden/field.  At this session the body language and behaviour of the animal is observed to see whether or not they are interested in the product choices offered.  If interested the animal may eat, smell or even  have them applied topically or roll in them. 

These sessions offer support for animals for a range of issues, including emotional and  behavioural, as well as physical concerns such as inflammatory issues which could affect joints, stomach etc.  Additionally skin, eye, ear, respiratory and immune issues, to name a few, could also benefit.   Alternatively a range of detox or mineral rich products could be offered for selection if you feel your animal has no specific issues.

However where an issue is present that you contacted us about, animals do not always select herbs and oils initially to support this.  At the consultation you will be given information about this and the self-selection process.  Advice and support will also be given on how best for you to offer or apply any products that have been selected by your animal in order to maintain their future well-being.

Want to see what other professionals

make of  zoopharmacognosy, just click the link:

A Zoopharmacognosy Experiment

Dogs First - Dr Conor Brady

Essential oils are generally extracted through the process of steam distillation from plant matter such as bark, flowers, fruit, leaves and roots. During the process steam passes through the plant matter breaking up the micro particles of the plant separating out the volatile (essential oil), from the non-volatile (hydrolat or hydrosols) elements. The (essential) oils are then collected as they accumulate on the surface. The water based hydrosols  contain natural constituents but in a more diluted form.  Other forms of extraction include CO2 and solvent extraction (absolutes), and expression or cold-pressing.   

There is wide variation in shelf life of essential oils which is linked to  their constituents, with citrus and pine essential oils having a shorter shelf  life.   Essential  oils should be checked reglarly for oxidation, which  can affect smell, viscosity  and appearance (cloudy).

The concentrated essential oils contain the characteristic odour and chemical constituents of the plants, such as phenols, monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes . The concentration of these constituents will vary depending on the essential oil.  We are aware of essential oil sensitivities in cats and tailor our sessions accordingly.

Offering essential oils to animals allows them to have access to, and to self-select, constituents they may not have contact with in their domestic setting.  Many essential oils have calming and relaxing properties, thus potentially reducing stress levels, which in turn supports and promotes physical well-being.   

When an essential oil is inhaled between 30 - 70% (on average 50%) of chemical constituents within the oil are absorbed via mucous linings of the respiratory pathways into the bloodstream, and ultimately into the brain by crossing the Blood Brain Barrier. Inhalation could therefore be beneficial for both emotional issues (such as anxiety, depression) and respiratory issues as they have a more immediate effect. Oils with analgesic or sedative effects will also have a faster reaction time and stronger effect with neurotransmitters sending messages to the affected areas (ie, reduce pain, sedate). 

 
The olfactory system, or sense of smell, is linked to the limbic system of the brain which deals with, amongst other things, memory and emotions, and as such some odours may trigger an emotional response. Inhalation of supportive essential oils could release memories and thus restore balance and well being, as ultimately the emotional state affects the physical state.  Essential oils are therefore supportive for a range of emotional, behavioural and physical issues. 

If you are interested in arranging a self-selection session, which includes the use of essential oils and hydrosols with your animal, please click on the link below for our prices.  If you wish to go ahead please contact us to arrange an appointment, and complete the consultation prior to the session (also available on the link below).  You will also need to contact your vet to ensure they are willing for the session to go ahead.   

We only use essential oils that are ethically sourced and  from companies that guarantee their purity.  We would recommend applying this criteria if looking to purchase oils for use in the home.

There are several types of diffusers on the market and the amount, and frequency, of essential oil that is dispersed into the environment varies with each of these.  The two main methods of dispersing the essential oils are by  using  a nebulising diffuser, or an ultrasonic diffuser. The nebulising diffuser disperses the essential oil into the air in a fine spray and thus the oil is still in its concentrated form. The ultrasonic diffuser again disperses a fine mist, but the difference is water is dispersed along with the essential oil and this therefore dilutes it. 

 
If using a diffuser with essential oils  in the home  your animal should not be left unattended.  Only use for a limited amount of time (to ensure no build-up of vapours); with ventilation and the ability for your animal to leave the room at any and all times, being necessities too. 

Their behaviour should also be monitored whilst in the vicinity of a diffuser as they will indicate whether they like or dislike the oil - more information regarding this can be discussed  at a self-selection  session. 

Cats, however, lack certain liver enzymes which assist in the metabolism of many essential oil constituents - " ... cats are quite susceptible to toxicity from nutmeg oil and tea tree oil.  But, a small amount of any essential oil, and a moderate amount of most, will not harm your cat."   (Tisserand Institute).  

Nevertheless essential oils  that contain phenols are best avoided around cats (particularly  wintergreen, anise, birch, basil, fennel, thyme, clove, and oregano) which contain higher levels (50%+).