Marigold is rich in sulfur and is valued for its ability to treat gastric ulcers. Meadowsweet contains salicylic acid and is know as herbal aspirin. Meadowsweet has astringent actions and has proven especially useful in treating ulceration caused by such drugs as phenylbutazone. Mint contains flavinoids that act to relax the digestive tract. Mint is commonly used as a digestive aid in horses.
Horses also find the aroma and taste of mint to be particularly appealing.
Aniseed has estrogenic activity and can be used to help normalize estrus in mares. Mare exhibiting performance problems during estrus have benefited from receiving Chaste Tree. Licorice has estrogenic activity and has been used to help increase fertility in mares. Raspberry assists uterine contractions during foaling, aids in placental cleaning and reduces hemorrhage associated with the foaling process. In addition, sage is a relatively strong uterine stimulant and therefore should not be given to pregnant mares.