Slippery Elm and Marshmallow Root - Natural Ulcer Support

Gastric ulcers can be common in horses of varying breeds, ages and types, and can affect 1 in 3 equines. 

Although breed can predispose our equines to ulcers, often the way we manage our equines can be a risk factor for ulcers, such as restricted time out at pasture and increased time stabled during the winter.

To protect the stomach, the glandular mucosa is lined with a thick layer of mucus. This is the lower portion of the stomach which secretes stomach acid and enzymes to help start digestion. Once this mucosa layer is breached, painful ulcers appear (often graded by your vet) causing behaviours such as weight loss, depression, reduced performance, grumpy or agitation when girthing or rugging, colic symptoms, teeth grinding, and overall reduced appetite. 

Research into our botanical-based equine nutraceuticals such as Marshmallow Root, Slippery Elm, Liquorice, and Chamomile have demonstrated gastroprotective effects. 

This is due to the flavonoid fraction of these plants which can contribute to have a positive impact on healing and preventing gastric ulcers.

Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra) is widely used in equine supplements to manage and soothe the equine gastrointestinal tract particularly if ulcers are present. Research demonstrates its ability to coat and sooth the GI tract due to the primary active component being mucilage, a gel like substance. It can 

Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis), like Slippery Elm, is also beneficial due to its high mucilage content which forms a gelatinous consistency in the equine stomach. Its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties protect the stomach lining from acid exposure, preventing and promoting healing of existing ulcers and reducing irritation. 

Chamomile and Liquorice both soothe the digestive tract, with Chamomile having a calming effect on our more stressed or anxious horses, and Liquorice having anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer properties. Although these do not have a high mucilage content like Slippery Elm or Marshmallow Root, they are a huge benefit for many horses when preventing gastric ulcers. 

In summary, gastric ulcers are a common but often manageable condition, particularly during winter months when management changes, stress levels increase, and forage availability can be inconsistent. Supporting the stomach lining with targeted herbal supplements can play an important role maintaining stomach health.

What are gastric ulcers in horses?

Gastric ulcers are sores that develop in the lining of a horse’s stomach. They can affect horses of different ages, breeds and workloads, with factors such as limited access to forage, high-concentrate diets, stress, travelling and some long-term medications potentially increasing the risk.

What are the signs of gastric ulcers in horses?

Signs can vary between horses and may be subtle. Possible signs include reduced appetite, weight loss, changes in behaviour, reduced performance, sensitivity when girthing or being rugged, teeth grinding and signs of digestive discomfort. If you are concerned that your horse may have gastric ulcers, speak to your vet for advice.

Can Slippery Elm and Marshmallow Root be fed together?

Slippery Elm and Marshmallow Root are commonly used together in herbal approaches to equine digestive support. Both contain naturally occurring mucilage, making them a complementary combination for supporting a healthy gastrointestinal tract and stomach lining.

What can increase the risk of gastric ulcers in horses?

Several management factors may contribute to gastric ulcer risk, including prolonged periods without forage, high-concentrate diets, stress, intensive exercise, travelling and some long-term medications. Providing regular access to suitable forage and reviewing feeding and management practices can form an important part of supporting digestive health.

How can I support my horse's digestive health naturally?

A consistent feeding routine, appropriate forage intake, reducing unnecessary stress and avoiding prolonged periods without food can all help support normal digestive health. Natural ingredients such as Slippery Elm, Marshmallow Root, Chamomile and Liquorice can also provide nutritional support as part of a balanced diet.

Can herbal supplements replace veterinary treatment for gastric ulcers?

No. If you suspect your horse has gastric ulcers, veterinary advice should always be sought. Herbal supplements can provide nutritional support, but they should not be used as a replacement for veterinary diagnosis or treatment.