Equine Species-Appropriate Diet: Feeding Horses as Nature Intended

At Wholehearted Harmony, we believe optimal health begins with feeding horses as nature intended. As non-ruminant herbivores, horses are biologically designed to process continuous forage, plant compounds, and naturally occurring minerals—not processed grains, soy, or artificial additives. Modern equine diets often ignore this, contributing to chronic inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, and digestive disturbance.

Herbs and whole foods have sustained both humans and animals for thousands of years. In the wild, horses instinctively practice self-selection, seeking out specific plants, roots, or minerals when their bodies need nutritional or physiological support. This behavior is now scientifically recognized as Zoopharmacognosy, a term coined by Dr. Eloy Rodriguez of Cornell University, describing animals’ innate ability to self-medicate through natural resources.

At its core, a whole food diet nourishes the body on a cellular level, supporting biological balance and natural healing—rather than simply masking symptoms.

What Does a Species-Appropriate Diet Look Like?

Forage as Foundation

A horse’s digestive tract is designed for constant intake of fibrous plant material. Inadequate forage disrupts gut motility, alters beneficial microbes, and increases the risk of gastric ulcers.

• Pasture & Hay: Provide constant access to high-quality, clean forage—free from pesticides, mold, and excessive sugars.

• Forage Pellets: A pelleted forage base—timothy, orchard, teff, alfalfa, or a combination—should form the core of your horse’s diet, especially when pasture isn’t available. Forage pellets simulate grazing while avoiding grains and fillers.

• Caution: If using a pelleted “non-grain” feed (often labeled as ration balancers or fortified pellets), always read the ingredient list carefully. Many contain hidden soy derivatives, which can disrupt hormonal balance and contribute to metabolic stress. Choose soy-free options whenever possible.

• Note: Certified organic forage is ideal, but practicality matters—work with what’s available in your area.

Functional Herbs: Phytochemicals for Cellular Balance

Herbs are far more than supplements; they are functional foods rich in phytonutrients that modulate inflammation, regulate enzymes, support tissue repair, and balance hormonal and immune systems.

Examples include:

• Wholehearted Harmony's Equine Essential Daily Blend: Supports gut lining, hoof quality, joint health, connective tissue strength, lymphatic flow, detoxification, kidney function, cardiac health, and nervous system regulation.

• Wholehearted Harmony's Senior Essentials Blend: Targets oxidative stress and degenerative changes common in horses aged 15 and up.

• Wholehearted Harmony's Custom Blends: Crafted through Applied Zoopharmacognosy, using your horse’s natural preferences to address individual needs.

Note: Herbs work best within a clean, soy-free, grain-free whole food foundation.

Foundational Supplements, Functional Fats & Micronutrients

Nature’s building blocks help bridge nutritional gaps and support cellular health:

• Bentonite Clay: Supplies minerals like calcium, magnesium, iron, copper, and zinc while binding toxins and heavy metals for safe elimination.

• Kelp: Rich in iodine (for thyroid support) plus calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and zinc. Offer free-choice in small amounts.

• Nutritional Yeast: High in B vitamins (including B12), chromium, and amino acids. Supports muscle development, hoof growth, and nervous system calm.

• Diatomaceous Earth: Provides bioavailable silica for collagen production, supporting hooves, skin, connective tissue, and immune regulation.

• Black Oil Sunflower Seeds (check suitability with your vet): Healthy fats, Vitamin E, and skin/coat support.

• Camelina Meal: Omega-3 rich alternative oil seed meal (or oil) providing Vitamin E and anti-inflammatory fatty acids.

• Omega Fatty Acids: Normalize skin inflammation, promote coat shine, and restore the natural fat balance lost in modern feeding.

Hydration and Electrolytes

• Fresh, Clean Water: Essential for hydration, nutrient absorption, toxin removal, and cellular function.

• Free-Choice Salt: Sodium supports nerve conduction, muscle contraction, hydrochloric acid production, and electrolyte balance.

• Whole Food Vitamins & Minerals: Support tissue maintenance, growth, energy metabolism, and electrolyte replenishment.

Why This Matters: Feed the Body, Not the Symptoms

Allergies, digestive upset, skin issues, and hormonal shifts aren’t random—they’re signs of an underlying imbalance. Many modern feeds focus on appearances or short-term symptom relief. At Wholehearted Harmony, we focus on the root cause.

By feeding phytonutrient-rich herbs, clean forage, essential fats, and natural minerals, we support detoxification, hormonal balance, inflammation regulation, and tissue repair—empowering your horse to heal from within.

Ready to Support Your Horse’s Innate Ability to Thrive?

Our equine herbal blends and nutritional protocols work with your horse’s biology—not against it. Whether you’re using our pre-made blends or exploring a custom consultation, we’re here to help you feed for health, not just maintenance.