Liquorice – or the extract made from the root – has been used in traditional folk medicine to address various health issues associated with compromised mucous membranes. We particularly recommend Liquorice extract to support the natural gut environment, for horses with sensitive stomachs, and those prone to frequent respiratory issues. However, it is essential that affected horses are assessed by a qualified therapist or veterinarian to conduct a holistic analysis of the situation, address potential underlying causes, and create a tailored feeding plan for the horse in question.
OKAPI Liquorice Extract is suitable for adult horses of all ages and breeds, but it should not be given to horses prone to laminitis. Liquorice extract contains, among other substances, glycyrrhizin, which can affect the body’s cortisol and aldosterone balance. Cortisol, in particular, is suspected of potentially triggering laminitis in horses, although the connection is not entirely clear, and the mechanism is not yet scientifically proven. However, since we want to avoid health issues at all costs, we recommend being cautious and avoiding the feeding of liquorice extract to horses with a history of laminitis or those with sensitive hooves.
OKAPI Liquorice Extract can be effectively combined with other products.
Due to its effects, OKAPI Liquorice Extract should not be given for longer than two to three weeks consecutively.
OKAPI Liquorice Extract can be directly incorporated into the horse’s existing feed and does not need to be boiled separately.
To calculate the appropriate amount of OKAPI Liquorice Extract 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 Liquorice Extract is based on a 600 kg horse. For horses, sprinkle 1-2 measuring scoops (1 scoop = 2g) twice a day (two lots of 1-2 scoops) over their feed; for ponies, about half this amount, depending on their size.
3. Adjust the amount to your horse’s weight:
For example, for a horse weighing 300 kg:
4 g ÷ 600 kg × 300 kg = 2 g per day
This calculation can be used to determine the appropriate amount for horses of different weights.
- 250g sufficient for approximately 2–4 months
- 600g sufficient for multiple horses
Composition: Liquorice root juice, dried and ground
Analytical Constituents: Starch: 21,90%, Total sugar: 14.00%
You are receiving a pure (dried and ground) liquorice extract, with no added sugar. It naturally contains some sugar, as is typical for the plant, which we have declared in accordance with feed law requirements.
Feed Material for horses
Due to its effectiveness, OKAPI Liquorice Extract should never be given for longer than two to three weeks at a time. We recommend taking a break of around three weeks then and introducing a different herbal mixture, e.g. OKAPI Secretosan to support the airways or OKAPI Intestinal Support Herbs to support the digestive tract.