What is Osteoarthritis in Horses?

Osteoarthritis in horses is a degenerative joint condition characterized by the gradual breakdown of articular cartilage, which protects the ends of bones during movement. Over time, this cartilage becomes thinner, increasing friction between bones and leading to inflammation of the surrounding tissues.

Common consequences include:

• Joint stiffness
• Pain during movement or flexion
• Lameness
• Reduced physical activity
• Decline in overall mobility and well-being

While osteoarthritis is more common in senior horses, it can also affect sport horses, recovering horses, or those under regular physical stress, especially when working on varying or hard surfaces.

Why Support Horse Joints Naturally?

Natural approaches target both the causes and symptoms of joint discomfort without systematically relying on aggressive medications.

Certain plants and natural ingredients have long been used for their beneficial effects on the musculoskeletal system. As part of ongoing support or alongside veterinary treatment, they help to:

• Relieve joint stiffness and tension
• Support cartilage and connective tissues
• Improve flexibility and mobility
• Reduce discomfort and inflammation

Plants and Ingredients for Joint Comfort

Several natural ingredients are used in Arbalou formulations for their well-known benefits on equine locomotion:

• Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum)
  A traditional anti-inflammatory plant used to reduce joint discomfort and improve mobility.
• Meadowsweet
  Rich in natural salicylates, known for its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Horsetail & Bamboo
  Naturally high in silica, supporting the regeneration and strength of cartilage, ligaments, and tendons.
• Algae & specific extracts
  Included in certain formulas to enhance overall joint flexibility and support.

Natural Solutions by Arbalou Soins

La Boutique de l’Arbalou offers a wide range of natural equine joint supplements, tailored to meet the specific needs of horses experiencing joint issues or requiring preventive support.

-Arbalou Herbal joint

A plant-based formula designed to support joint comfort. Free from harpagophytum, it contains silica-rich plant extracts ideal for maintaining cartilage, ligaments, and overall mobility.

-Arbalou Phytoflex

A complete formula combining plants and algae to support the entire locomotor system. Helps reduce stiffness, improve flexibility, and maintain comfort, especially in older, arthritic, or heavily worked horses.

Other Natural Plant-Based Solutions

Formulas containing boswellia, blackcurrant, and other botanical extracts are also available to support daily joint comfort based on individual needs.

Prevention & Long-Term Joint Care

Taking action before symptoms appear is one of the most effective ways to preserve joint health over time.

A balanced approach combining targeted supplementation, proper workload management, weight control, and a suitable environment helps prevent premature joint wear and maintain optimal quality of life.

Regular supplementation can be particularly beneficial for:

• Senior horses, to support age-related changes
• Sport horses, exposed to high joint stress
• Young growing horses, to support joint development with high-quality chondroprotectors
• General prevention, even without visible symptoms

Important Recommendation

While herbal supplements and natural products are highly beneficial for prevention and support, a veterinary consultation is recommended in cases of persistent or severe discomfort.

Arbalou Expertise for Horse Joint Health

Using natural supplements for horse joints is a gentle and effective way to support mobility, reduce discomfort, and maintain long-term locomotor health.

With formulations inspired by phytotherapy and adapted to equine physiology, La Boutique de l’Arbalou provides reliable solutions to improve joint comfort at every stage of your horse’s life.