If your horse’s nerves sometimes get the better of him, the right supplement may help, and we’ll help you find it!

Does looking at the number of calming supplements available make you want to spin and bolt? Don’t shy away just yet! We’re here to help you choose the ideal calming formula for your horse so that you can both be confident during your rides.

There are three types of temperament supplements to choose from: nutrient-based calming formulas, herbal calming formulas, and herbal formulas designed specifically for moody mares.

Read on to take a closer look at these three types of supplements and get a better understanding of how they work, so you can find the right support for your horse.

HOW THEY WORK
Horses whose diets don’t provide enough of the nutrients necessary for proper nervous system function may be anxious. These formulas are designed to bring your horse’s dietary levels into the optimal range for a healthy, correctly functioning nervous system. Nutrient-based calming supplements are an ideal starting point for horses that are nervous, edgy, reactive, or spooky. Plus, if you compete in rated horse shows, nutrient-based supplements may be your best option, as herbal calming supplements include ingredients that may be forbidden by competitive organizations.

Vitamin B1
Vitamin B, also known as thiamine, is important in the normal transmission of impulses along nerves. Supplementing with vitamin B helps ensure your horse is getting enough for his nervous system to function normally.

Magnesium
Magnesium, a macro mineral, is a key player in nervous system function. One of the clinical signs of magnesium deficiency is nervousness, so many riders find that supplementing with magnesium helps their horses to stay relaxed.

Inositol
Inositol is closely related to the B-vitamin family and is found in nearly every cell in the body. It assists in nerve transmission and supports the action of the neurotransmitter serotonin, so supplementing with inositol may be helpful for nervous horses.

Tryptophan
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid, which means it needs to be supplied in your horse’s diet. It’s converted by the body into serotonin, which may help increase feelings of well-being and contentment.

Vitamin B1
See above

Magnesium
See above

Inositol
See above

HOW THEY WORK
Herbal ingredients can provide soothing support for tense, anxious horses. Some of these supplements combine herbs with the nutrient-based ingredients listed on the previous page. If you don’t compete, an herbal calming formula may be a great option to consider. Additionally, if you’ve tried a nutrient-based supplement and didn’t see the results you were hoping for, consider trying an herbal formula as a next step.

Valerian is a potent herb that may help balance the nervous system. Because it can also help address muscle cramps associated with tension, it’s helpful for horses that hold their anxiety in their muscles.

Chamomile, another herb that supports nervous system function, is especially benefi cial for horses who process their nervousness through their gastrointestinal system.

Vervain may help balance the nervous system of horses who have excess energy, helping them slow down and concentrate on the job at hand.

HOW THEY WORK
If your sweet mare turns into a moody monster during or around her heat cycle, her poor attitude could be related to hormonal fl uctuations or discomfort in her reproductive tract. These formulas include ingredients that support balanced hormones and an even disposition. When choosing a supplement, keep in mind that some herbal ingredients are forbidden by competitive organizations.

Passion flower helps relax muscle tension in both smooth and skeletal muscle, making it a helpful choice for mares who are uncomfortable due to spasms in their reproductive and digestive systems.

Vitex agnus castus, also known as chasteberry, helps maintain a balanced hormonal system.

Raspberry supports smooth muscle tone in the reproductive and digestive tracts, helping to relax muscle that is in spasm.