Clearly, this is an important consideration before feeding comfrey to horses. Comfrey also contains allantoin, and can be an effective analgesic when applied topically, as systemic absorption of PAs through the skin is minimal. But perhaps more common than the direct toxicities associated with natural health products is the indirect toxicity that may occur if a horse owner is delaying a more appropriate conventional treatment by attempting to diagnose and treat their horse without the aid of professional advice. It is a natural byproduct of Canadian society taking more control of, and responsibility for, their own health and that of their horses. But the dangers of this practise are very real.
Veterinarians are highly skilled professionals trained in diagnosing treating illness in animals.
Most horseowners simply do not have the expertise required to accurately diagnose a problem, much less treat it. Even simple compromises of a horse's health may become a serious and chronic problem if not addressed swiftly and appropriately. A horseowner may well be doing their animals more harm than good by relying on their own knowledge to treat symptoms with herbs. Herbal remedies are best used as a support to good health, and a complement to veterinary care. They can become very dangerous when they replace conventionl treatment without the advice of a professional veterinarian.