b'NUTRITIONpositive results on stress and anxiety. In McDonnells lab research teams have conducted several alpha-casozepine stud-ies and found that supplementation helps lower horses stress levels under normal management situations and might help horses retain newly learned tasks. 2AshwagandhaAshwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an herb thats been used in both humans and animals as a natural antidepressant. 3Anecdotal evidence suggests it can reduce stress and tension by reducing the fight-or-flight cortisol (the stress hormone) response. Some owners have reported a decrease in stereotypies such as cribbing and weaving after supplementing their horses diets with ashwagandha. The herb might also help reduce pain, such as from ISTOCK.COMathletic injuries or arthritis. Scientists have not yet performed peer-reviewed studies, however, to confirm this. Anecdotal evidence suggests the herb ashwagandha can reduce stress and tension by reducing the horses fight-or-flight cortisol response.Valerian RootValerian root is another common herbof synthetic sedatives or tranquilizers, sooccurs in relatively large amounts in found in calming products. In humans itavoid giving it to a horse that will needchamomile, is what brings about both the can soothe edginess, reduce anxiety, andtranquilizer for procedures such as dentalcalming and sedative effects observed. work as a sleep aid. In horses it has alsowork or body-clipping. Although there are several flowers in been used as an antispasmodic (for treat- the family, the German and English ing colic). However, some equine associa- Chamomile varieties are the ones most commonly tions have banned this ingredient, so itAnother common herbal remedy isused for calming purposes. In humans might not be an option if you compete. Inchamomile, which is of the Asteraceaechamomile is used to treat insomnia and addition, valerian can enhance the effectfamily. Apigenin, the plant nutrient thatanxiety. It has also worked as both an At ADM Animal Nutriion, we believe in the Forage First philosophy, supported by over 100 years of feed manufacturing excellence. Every day, we source the cleanest, most nutriious ingredients for our premium Forage First horse feeds so you can feed the very best to the one you love the most. ADMequine.comEquine Help Line: 800-650-8254 AN.Equinehelp@adm.comTheHorse.com|The HorseApril 202035'