The immune system is one of the most important helpers in the body, as it not only fights invaders like bacteria or viruses, but also repairs tissues, for example after injuries. It ensures the horse’s survival, not just during infections that spread through the stable – such as colds or fungal diseases – but also during the usual scuffles within the group, where smaller or larger “scratches” can occur. It’s no coincidence that Voltaire once said, “The art of medicine is to entertain the patient while nature cures the disease” – because Voltaire’s “nature” is actually the immune system.
The immune system can be supported in various ways. This definitely includes equine-appropriate nutrition and a natural gut environment, as 75-80% of the horse’s immune system is located in the walls of the digestive tract. Also, stress is a key factor, as existing stress suppresses immune function. Therefore, it is important to ensure as natural a living environment as possible, with a relaxed, well-socialised group. However, herbs can also support the natural function of the immune system, and this is where OKAPI Immuno Herbs come in. We recommend giving them during particularly stressful times, especially in spring and autumn during the coat change period. Together with an equine-appropriate diet and a low-stress living environment, they support the horse’s ability to regenerate and stay fit.
In principle, OKAPI Immuno Herbs are suitable for adult horses of all ages and breeds.
OKAPI Immuno Herbs can be easily combined with other products. We recommend combining it with OKAPI Sulphur Plus (MSM) and OKAPI Zinc Plus for further support.
OKAPI Immuno Herbs should not be given for more than four to six weeks at a time. After this period, a break of two to four weeks is recommended, or a switch to another herbal mixture, such as OKAPI Bitter Herbs.
OKAPI Immuno Herbs can be directly incorporated into the horse’s existing feed and can be added dry or moistened to the feed or sprinkled over the hay.
To calculate the appropriate amount of OKAPI Immuno Herbs for your horse, follow these steps:
1. Determine your horse’s weight:
Your horse’s weight can be determined using scales, a weight tape or an app such as the BCI App from our partner Sanoanimal, available for free on Google Play and Apple Store).
2. Use the feeding recommendation as your starting point:
The general recommendation for OKAPI products is based on a 600 kg horse. Add dry or moistened to the feed or sprinkle over the hay. Horses receive 30-50g a day (about a handful). Ponies receive half this amount, depending on their size.
3. Adjust the amount to your horse’s weight:
For example, for a horse weighing 300 kg:
50 g ÷ 600 kg × 300 kg = 25 g per day
This calculation can be used to determine the appropriate amount for horses of different weights.
- 500g sufficient for approximately 10–14 days
- 1,000g sufficient for approximately 3–6 weeks
- 3,000g sufficient for multiple horses
Composition: 100% herbal mixture, contains: echinacea herb, horehound herb, joe-pye weed, rose hips, St. John’s wort, ginkgo leaves, mistletoe, horseradish
Analytical constituents and contents: Crude fibre: 20,60%, Crude protein: 10,80%, Crude fat: 3,00%, Crude ash: 7,50%, Calcium: 1,29%, Phosphorus: 0,16%, Sodium: 0,12%
Complementary feed for horses
OKAPI Immuno Herbs can be given in alongside a veterinary therapy, during the change of coat or in the winter season. OKAPI Immuno Herbs should never be given for more than four to six weeks at a time. After which, we recommend a break of two to four weeks.