Inflammation is at the root of many equine health conditions—from arthritis and soft tissue injuries to metabolic syndrome and laminitis. While NSAIDs like Bute or Equioxx are effective, long-term use can come with side effects like gastric ulcers or kidney strain.
That’s where natural anti-inflammatory supplements come in. They may not replace prescription medications, but they can support horses with chronic inflammation, especially when used under veterinary supervision. Below, we explore research-backed options including turmeric, omega-3 fatty acids, Boswellia, and Devil’s Claw.
This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any supplement, especially if your horse is on medication or has a chronic condition.
1. Turmeric
Turmeric, a bright yellow spice, is making its way into many horse feeding routines. The active ingredient, curcumin, has proven anti-inflammatory effects and is used in horses with arthritis, metabolic syndrome, laminitis, ulcers, skin irritations, among others .
Research says that the top benefits from feeding turmeric to your horses are:
- Beneficial anti-inflammatory properties
- Metabolic health (supports insulin sensitivity)
- Plays a role in protecting cartilage integrity.
- Helps lessen ulceration severity
- Improves recovery and enhaces training by reducing inflammation
Curcumin is tricky for the body to absorb. Mixing turmeric with fresh ground black pepper (about six turns on a hind grind dispense) and/or 15 ml oil source (like flaxseed oil) improves its uptake. I always start with a small amount, usually just a teaspoon, but a dose up to 2.4 g per day of turmeric is suggested as safe.
Tips for Using Turmeric
- Start slow, adding about a teaspoon to the feed and slowly increasing if your horse tolerates it up to 2.4g per day.
- Add 15 ml linseed oil and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper for better absorption.
- Watch for digestive sensitivity and stop if you see loose manure or signs of discomfort. Although it was initially thought to cause gastric irriation, this theory has been disproven.
Smart & Simple™ Turmeric Pellets (SmartPak Equine)
Rating: ★★★★☆
An easy way to add natural anti-inflammatory support to your horse’s diet to maintain healthy joints and help manage the discomfort from normal daily exercise and activity. Provides 10,000 mg of turmeric in a mess-free pellet.
Pros:
✔ Easy to feed
✔ Clean ingredient list
✔ Supports joint and immune health
✔ Great product, great price
Cons:
✘ No piperine for enhanced absorption
✘ Best fed with a fat source (you can add pepper and linseed oil yourself)
Turmericle® Powder by Stance Equine
Rating: ★★★★☆
A potent blend of turmeric, powdered coconut oil, black pepper (piperine), and resveratrol designed to enhance bioavailability and support joint, digestive, and immune health.
Pros:
✔ Includes black pepper & coconut oil for better absorption
✔ Also contains resveratrol for added antioxidant benefits
✔ Great for horses needing broad-spectrum anti-inflammatory support
Cons:
✘ Powder form can be messy
✘ Strong smell may reduce palatability for picky eaters
TurmeriGold by Getty Equine Nutrition
Rating: ★★★★★
A veterinarian-recommended blend of organic turmeric, ground black pepper, and coconut oil—designed for maximum absorption and anti-inflammatory support. No synthetic additives.
Pros:
✔ Human-grade, organic ingredients
✔ Pre-blended with fat and piperine for optimal bioavailability
✔ Supports joints, digestion, skin, and immune function
Cons:
✘ Paste-like texture may be unfamiliar at first
✘ Needs refrigeration after opening
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3 fatty acids, found in oils like fish oil and flaxseed oil, offer natural support against inflammation. These good fats help balance the body’s inflammatory response and are used by many owners to help with:
- conditions like arthritis, skin allergies, or even muscle soreness.
- hearth health and brain function
I’ve seen clear results when supplementing older horses with stiff joints; movement gets easier, and discomfort after work is less obvious. But I actually supplement fish oil to every horse I ride, it is just so worth it.
Fish oil offers EPA and DHA, while flaxseed oil provides ALA. Both types help, but fish oil works more directly because horses convert ALA less efficiently, additionally flaxseed oil can degrade much quicker, needing special care for storing the product.
It is important for you to check that the omega 6 and omega 3 balance is correct, many fish oil products actually contain a significant proportion of soybean oil, which is higher in omega-6 fatty acids; excessive omega-6 intake may promote inflammation
Let me show you some products:
EO-3™ Omega-3 Supplement by KER
Rating: ★★★★★
A highly concentrated marine-derived omega-3 oil rich in EPA and DHA, designed to support joint, metabolic, immune, and reproductive health in horses.
Pros:
✔ Research-backed by KER
✔ Excellent omega-3 source for reducing inflammation
✔ Palatable apple flavor
Cons:
✘ Liquid form may be messier than pellets
W-3 Oil by Mad Barn
Rating: ★★★★★
A plant-based omega-3 oil blend with microalgae-sourced DHA and natural vitamin E. Supports inflammation, immune function, and skin health—without the fishy smell.
Pros:
✔ Less fishy smell
✔ Includes vitamin E for antioxidant protection
✔ Great for metabolic, joint, and respiratory support
Cons:
✘ Liquid format may require careful handling
✘ Contains flax and soy—check for sensitivities
Omega Horseshine®
Rating: ★★★★☆
A stabilized ground flaxseed supplement rich in ALA omega-3 fatty acids, designed to support skin, coat, hooves, immune function, and digestive health.
Pros:
✔ High-quality, stabilized flax—no rancidity issues
✔ Excellent for coat shine and hoof strength (10mg of biotin per serving)
✔ Rich in fiber for gut support
Cons:
✘ Lower DHA/EPA compared to marine-based oils
✘ Powder form can be messy for some feeders
IF :
- Your horse has inflammation, arthritis, or laminitis risk → Mad Barn W-3 Oil or KER W-3 Oil
- Your goal is coat improvement, reproductive support, or omega-3 supplementation on a budget → Mad Barn W-3 Oil or Golden Horseshoe Fish Oil
Best Practices for Supplementing Omega 3s
- Introduce the oil slowly to avoid digestive upset.
- Use high quality, cold pressed oil and store it in a cool, dark place to prevent spoilage.
- Always pair fish oil with sufficient vitamin E to prevent oxidative stress.
- Check with your vet if your horse is on other medications or a special diet.
3. Boswellia Serrata
Boswellia, an herbal resin, is used globally to manage joint and muscle discomfort. Boswellic acids, its active compounds, are believed to limit the enzymes behind swelling and pain. Many equine joint supplements include Boswellia because it’s gentle on the stomach and unlikely to cause side effects seen with some medications.
I give Platinum Performace CJ, that has boswellia content included as part of the formula. It is a very recommended and highly reviewd product that my vet always asks me to give my showjumpers, specially the ones that are going to be jumping higher.
Let me show you products that use Boswellia Serrata:
Platinum Performance® CJ
Rating: ★★★★★
An elite all-in-one supplement for joint, muscle, and total body health. Combines omega-3s, glucosamine, MSM, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and Boswellia serrata—a powerful natural anti-inflammatory.
Pros:
✔ Contains Boswellia serrata for joint comfort
✔ Supports joints, soft tissue, hooves, skin, digestion, and more
✔ Trusted by vets and backed by research
Cons:
✘ Higher cost than basic joint supplements
✘ Powder form—may need slow introduction
SmartComfort Pellets by SmartPak
Rating: ★★★★☆
A well-rounded joint and comfort formula featuring Boswellia serrata, turmeric, devil’s claw, and yucca—targeting everyday inflammation, stiffness, and discomfort.
Pros:
✔ Combines multiple natural anti-inflammatories
✔ Includes MSM and omega-3s for joint support
✔ Pellet form is easy to feed
Cons:
✘ Not recommended for pregnant mares or horses on NSAIDs
✘ Contains devil’s claw—check with your vet if competing
Devil’s Claw Plus Pellets by SmartPak
Rating: ★★★★☆
A targeted herbal formula combining devil’s claw, Boswellia serrata, and yucca to support joint comfort and manage occasional stiffness and discomfort in active or older horses.
Pros:
✔ Natural support for inflammation and mobility
✔ Includes Boswellia for added anti-inflammatory benefit
✔ Pellets are easy to feed
Cons:
✘ Not for pregnant mares or horses on NSAIDs
✘ Devil’s claw may be banned in some competitive events
How to Use Boswellia
- Performance horse with joint wear and tear? → Platinum CJ (comprehensive with fish oil and Boswellia)
- Older horse with osteoarthritis? → Equithrive Joint (backed by trials, focus on inflammation)
- Horse with chronic laminitis or navicular syndrome? → Herbsmith Sound Horse (natural herbal pain management)
4. Devil’s Claw
Devil’s Claw is a South African plant with a reputation for helping horses with chronic stiffness, joint pain, or even mild laminitis. The active compounds, called harpagosides, are linked to a reduction in discomfort from everyday wear and tear or old injuries.
Many horses respond quickly to Devil’s Claw, especially those with mild arthritis. It shouldn’t be given to pregnant mares, horses with gastric ulcers, or those on blood thinners without a vet’s approval.
Devil’s Claw is prohibited in FEI/USEF competitions due to its COX-inhibitory (NSAID-like) action. Always observe appropriate withdrawal times if your horse competes.
To Remember
- Follow the feeding instructions and weigh out each portion for accuracy.
- Stop use at least 72 hours before competitions if you show under organizations that restrict its use.
- Always talk to your veterinarian before starting Devil’s Claw in horses with ulcers or metabolic issues.
It is harder to get in the US or Canada than in Europe. Let me show you:
SmartComfort Pellets by SmartPak
Rating: ★★★★☆
A well-rounded joint and comfort formula featuring Boswellia serrata, turmeric, devil’s claw, and yucca—targeting everyday inflammation, stiffness, and discomfort.
Pros:
✔ Combines multiple natural anti-inflammatories
✔ Includes MSM and omega-3s for joint support
✔ Pellet form is easy to feed
Cons:
✘ Not recommended for pregnant mares or horses on NSAIDs
✘ Contains devil’s claw—check with your vet if competing
Devil’s Claw Plus Pellets by SmartPak
Rating: ★★★★☆
A targeted herbal formula combining devil’s claw, Boswellia serrata, and yucca to support joint comfort and manage occasional stiffness and discomfort in active or older horses.
Pros:
✔ Natural support for inflammation and mobility
✔ Includes Boswellia for added anti-inflammatory benefit
✔ Pellets are easy to feed
Cons:
✘ Not for pregnant mares or horses on NSAIDs
✘ Devil’s claw may be banned in some competitive events
Hilton Herbs Multi-Flex
Rating: ★★★★☆
An herbal blend designed to support joint mobility and comfort. Features Boswellia serrata, meadowsweet, hawthorn, devil’s claw, and milk thistle for natural anti-inflammatory and circulatory benefits.
Pros:
✔ Herbal formula with Boswellia and devil’s claw
✔ Supports joints, circulation, and liver health
✔ Available in dry herb or liquid tincture
Cons:
✘ Devil’s claw may be prohibited in competition
✘ Strong herbal scent may deter picky eaters
5. Yucca: Plant Extract for Natural Comfort
Yucca schidigera is a desert plant that contains saponins and polyphenols, both tied to anti-inflammatory effects. Yucca extracts often appear in blends for horses that need extra joint or muscle support. Owners use yucca to help with:
- Arthritis or degenerative joint disease
- Soft tissue inflammation
- Laminitis (chronic cases)
- Poor manure consistency or mild gut dysbiosis
Dosage (general guideline for Yucca schidigera root or extract):
| Form | Typical Daily Dose (1000 lb horse) |
| Powdered root | 5–10 grams (dry weight) |
| Liquid extract (20%) | 5–15 mL/day (adjust based on brand) |
- Start with low end of the range, especially if combined with other herbs.
- Best administered with feed for better absorption and reduced GI irritation.
- Avoid long-term use at high doses due to potential saponin-related GI irritation.
Contraindications:
- Not recommended in pregnant mares (due to possible uterine stimulation).
- Horses with pre-existing GI ulcers should be monitored closely.
How I Use Yucca
- Add the recommended dose to regular grain and mix well.
- Use yucca as part of a rotation or in combination with MSM, turmeric, or omega 3s for broader support.
- Limit long term use and stick to your veterinarian’s advice if your horse is on prescription medication.
6. MSM (Methylsulfonylmethan): Sulfur Based Support for Tissues
MSM is a naturally occurring sulfur found in plants and is known for helping muscles, tendons, and joints recover from exercise. This supplement is often used for horses with:
- Osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease
- Muscle soreness and exercise recovery
- Allergic skin conditions
- Laminitis and hoof health (via collagen and keratin synthesis)
I don’t give MSM to my horses separately, because it is one of the key ingredients included in Platinum CJ. But I have used pure MSM like Uckele MSM Poweder, I was getting very good results and it is very easy to mix in their feed, but I was too lazy to be giving my competition horses their supplements separatedly. Most owner reviews report smoother gaits and a bit more flexibility within a few weeks of steady use.
Recommended Inclusion in the Diet
| Horse Type | Daily MSM Dosage |
| Maintenance / light work | 5–10 grams (5,000–10,000 mg) |
| Moderate arthritis | 10–15 grams (10,000–15,000 mg) |
| Acute inflammation | Up to 20 grams under vet supervision |
- Form: Powder or pellets (most bioavailable)
- Administer with feed, split into AM/PM if high dose
- Onset of action: 2–3 weeks for visible effects
- Safety: Build up to a full dose gradually. It rarely causes side effects. Long-term use is generally safe at recommended levels.
| Product | Ideal For | Comments |
| AniMed Pure MSM | Budget or single ingredient use | High-purity, low cost |
| Uckele MSM Powder | Long-term sulfur/joint support | No fillers, very consistent |
| Platinum Performance CJ | Full-body support | Best for athletes, broad ingredient spectrum |
| Equithrive Joint | Joint Inflammation | Excellent Reseach Backing |
| SmartPak SmartFlex Senior | Older horses with stiffness | Targeted to age-related inflammation |
For horses needing just MSM:
Animed Pure MSM or Uckele MSM Powder (cost-effective, high purity)
For athletic or older horses needing comprehensive joint support:
Platinum Performance CJ or SmartFlex Senior
For horses with chronic inflammation or joint disease:
Equithrive Joint (especially if showing lameness)
7. Arnica: Tropical Support for Acute Swelling
Arnica montana is well known for use in topical gels or sprays for acute injuries. Think bumps, bruises, or sore muscles. While it’s not something I feed, I keep arnica gel in my tack room for after strenuous rides or minor knocks, and I’ve noticed it helps reduce swelling and speed up surface recovery time. Always check the skin for any broken areas, since arnica shouldn’t go on wounds.
Applying arnica is easy; simply follow the instructions on the label, massage gently into the sore area, and track your horse’s response. I’ve also talked with professionals who say that while arnica works externally, it helps your horse feel more comfortable after an intense day.
How to Choose the Right Supplement for Your Horse
Choosing the right supplement really depends on your horse’s age, workload, and specific needs. I always talk with my vet before starting anything new and take a week or two to introduce new ingredients, one at a time. Doing this helps me spot any sensitivities or side effects early on.
- Check for third party testing to confirm quality and avoid hidden contaminants.
- Stick to one change at a time, so you can attribute any improvements or side effects to the right source.
- Consult with a vet, especially when dealing with chronic health problems or performance horses subject to competition rules.
- Look at your feeding program as a whole, and consider what might be missing in your horse’s nutrition that is causing or contributing to inflammation.
It’s a good idea to keep a simple journal of what you add or remove from your horse’s program, and note any observable changes or patterns. This extra step really helps you track down what works best for your horse.
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References:
Turmeric
- Farinacci, M., Gaspardo, B., Colitti, M., & Stefanon, B. (2009). Dietary administration of curcumin modifies transcriptional profile of genes involved in inflammatory cascade in horse leukocytes. Italian Journal of Animal Science, 8(sup2), 84–86. https://doi.org/10.4081/ijas.2009.s2.84
- Fletcher, S. P. S., & Gough, S. L. (2019). Pre-treatment with turmeric (Curcuma xanthorrhiza) reduces the severity of squamous gastric ulceration in feed-restricted horses. Journal of Animal Science Research. https://sciforschenonline.org/journals/animal-science-research/JASR125.php
- Starzonek, J., Roscher, K., Blüher, M., Blaue, D., Schedlbauer, C., Hirz, M., Raila, J., & Vervuert, I. (2019). Effects of a blend of green tea and curcuma extract supplementation on lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation in horses and ponies. PeerJ, 7, e8053. https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.8053
- Tinworth, K. D., Harris, P. A., Sillence, M. N., & Noble, G. K. (2010). Potential treatments for insulin resistance in the horse: A comparative multi-species review. The Veterinary Journal, 186(3), 282–291. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tvjl.2009.08.032
- Weisberg, S. P., Leibel, R., & Tortoriello, D. V. (2008). Dietary curcumin significantly improves obesity-associated inflammation and diabetes in mouse models of diabesity. Endocrinology, 149(7), 3549–3558. https://doi.org/10.1210/en.2008-0262
Omega 3 fatty oils
- O’Connor, C. I., Lawrence, L. M., & Hayes, S. H. (2007). Effect of dietary omega-3 fatty acid source on plasma and red blood cell membrane composition and immune function in yearling horses. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition, 94(4), 469–477. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1439-0396.2009.00941.x
- Santos, V. S., Lima, G. F. C., Souza, D. R., & Silva, R. C. (2021). Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in horses – a review. Revista Brasileira de Zootecnia, 50, e20210012. https://doi.org/10.37496/rbz5020210012
- Vineyard, K. R., Leise, B. S., Horohov, D. W., & McIlwraith, C. W. (2010). Effect of dietary omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on inflammatory markers in equine osteoarthritis. Veterinary Immunology and Immunopathology, 135(3–4), 161–167. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vetimm.2009.11.012
Boswellia
- Arfuso, F., Rizzo, M., Giannetto, C., Giudice, E., Cirincione, R., Cassata, G., Cicero, L., & Piccione, G. (2023). Dietary supplementation with Boswellia serrata, Verbascum thapsus, and Curcuma longa in show jumping horses: Effects on serum proteome, antioxidant status, and anti-inflammatory gene expression. Life, 13(3), 750. https://doi.org/10.3390/life13030750
- Kimmatkar, N., Thawani, V., Hingorani, L., & Khiyani, R. (2003). Efficacy and tolerability of Boswellia serrata extract in treatment of osteoarthritis of knee—a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Phytomedicine, 10(1), 3–7. https://doi.org/10.1078/094471103321648593
- Lee, J. K., Bae, J., & Kim, E. J. (2023). Evaluating the anti-osteoarthritis potential of standardized Boswellia serrata gum resin extract in alleviating knee joint pathology and inflammation in osteoarthritis-induced models. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 312, 116382. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2023.116382
- Roy, S., Khanna, S., Krishnaraju, A. V., Subbaraju, G. V., Kalidindi, S., Bagchi, D., & Sen, C. K. (2021). Boswellia serrata extract containing 30% 3-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid attenuates inflammatory mediators and preserves extracellular matrix in collagen-induced arthritis. Frontiers in Physiology, 12, 735247. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2021.735247
- Yu, G., Xiang, W., Zhang, T., Zeng, L., & Li, J. (2020). Effectiveness of Boswellia and Boswellia extract for osteoarthritis patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, 20, 225. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-020-02985-6
Devil’s claw
- Leibetseder, J., et al. (2001). Clinical use of Harpagophytum procumbens in horses with chronic laminitis. Praktische Tierarzt, 82(7), 612–616.
(Clinical improvement in lameness and pain scores with Devil’s Claw) - Schmidt, P. C., et al. (2003). Pharmacokinetics of harpagoside after oral administration in horses. Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics, 26(6), 433–437. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-2885.2003.00528.x
(Demonstrated measurable absorption and systemic effect of harpagoside in horses) - Wynn, S. G., & Fougere, B. J. (2007). Veterinary Herbal Medicine. Mosby Elsevier.
(Comprehensive reference on equine herbal therapies, including Devil’s Claw)
Yucca
- Cheeke, P. R., & Otero, R. (2005). Yucca schidigera extract as feed additive: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential in livestock. Animal Feed Science and Technology, 121(1-2), 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anifeedsci.2005.02.003
- Zhang, J., Wang, Y., Zhou, C., & Yang, L. (2014). Effects of Yucca schidigera extract supplementation on performance and immune response in horses. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 34(8), 1033–1037. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jevs.2014.04.010
MSM
- Marañón, G., Gutiérrez, J., & García, A. (2008). Effects of methylsulfonylmethane supplementation on equine joint inflammation. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 28(4), 183–193. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jevs.2008.01.009
- DuPreez, J. A., Lombard, M. J., & Conradie, P. J. (2002). Effect of methylsulfonylmethane on inflammation and oxidative stress in equine models. South African Journal of Animal Science, 32(2), 111–117. https://doi.org/10.4314/sajas.v32i2.3776
- Pearson, W., & Lindinger, M. I. (2001). The effects of methylsulfonylmethane on equine performance, joint comfort, and oxidative status. Equine Comparative Exercise Physiology, 2(3), 147–155.
Arnica
- Knuesel, O., Weber, M., & Suter, A. (2002). Comparative study of Arnica montana gel vs. ibuprofen gel in treating osteoarthritis of the knee: A controlled, double-blind study. Rheumatology International, 22(4), 109–115. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00296-002-0196-1
- Lee, S. G., Lee, E. B., Nam, T. S., You, S., Im, D., Kim, K., Gu, B., Nam, G.-y., Lee, H., Kwon, S. J., Kim, Y. S., & Kim, S. G. (2025). Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects of Arnica extract hydrogel patch in carrageenan-induced inflammation and hot plate pain models. Pharmaceutics, 17(2), 171. https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17020171