The whens, whys, and don'ts of feeding dandelion to horses.

The Benefits of Dandelion Leaves for Horses

Most people see dandelions in their paddocks, they think of weeds — but the leaves of the dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) are packed with nutrients and beneficial properties that can support your horse’s health.

Let’s take a closer look at the WHYS

💧 1. Natural Support for the Kidneys and Liver

Dandelion leaves are mildly diuretic, meaning they encourage healthy urine flow and help the body flush out excess fluids and toxins. This makes them useful for supporting kidney and urinary tract function, especially in horses that may be prone to fluid retention or mild stiffness.

They also help the liver, one of the body’s main detox organs. A healthy liver supports efficient metabolism, energy levels, and overall vitality — making dandelion leaves an excellent tonic herb.

🥬 2. Rich in Essential Vitamins and Minerals

Dandelion leaves are naturally high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron.

• Potassium helps balance the diuretic effect, ensuring your horse doesn’t lose vital electrolytes.

• Calcium and magnesium support muscle and bone health.

• Iron supports good blood health and oxygen transport.

• 
  

This makes dandelion leaves a wonderful natural supplement, particularly for horses on restricted grazing or older horses needing extra nutritional support.

🌼 3. A Gentle Digestive Tonic

Dandelion leaves can help stimulate the appetite and support healthy digestion. They gently encourage the production of digestive juices, helping your horse make better use of their feed and herbs.

Including a small amount of dried dandelion leaf in the feed can be helpful for fussy eaters or horses coming back into work.

🦠 4. Natural Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties

The antioxidants in dandelion leaves help combat oxidative stress, which can occur with exercise, aging, or environmental factors. These properties can also provide mild anti-inflammatory support, helping to keep joints and tissues comfortable — particularly in veteran or active horses.

⚠️ When Not to Feed Dandelion

While dandelion leaves are generally very safe, there are a few situations to avoid them:

• Do not feed to horses with known kidney issues unless advised by a vet.

• Avoid if your horse is already on prescribed diuretics, as this could overwork the kidneys.

• Always introduce gradually and use good-quality dried leaf or fresh (pesticide-free) plants.

  
  

🌱 How to Feed Dandelion Leaves

You can feed dried dandelion leaves as part of a daily herbal blend or on their own.

• Typical amount: 20–30g per day (roughly a small handful) for an average horse.

• Mix into feed or alongside other complementary herbs like nettles, clivers, or milk thistle for full detox support.

  
  

💚 In Summary

Dandelion leaves are far more than just a paddock weed — they’re a powerhouse of nutrition and gentle support for your horse’s liver, kidneys, and overall wellbeing. Whether your horse is in light work, recovering from winter, or just needs a natural tonic, dandelion leaves are a simple and effective herbal choice.

Want dandelion added to your horse's mix? Contact me HERE.

To purchase Dandelion, visit my shop HERE.

You can find dandelion in the following mixes: Hedge mix and Detox mix