Natural Herbal Remedies for Sheep: A Farmer's Guide to Chemical-Free Livestock Care
By Liz Morgan, Stockperson and farmer
I was brought up on a Beef and Sheep farm in Breconshire and like all other farmers I knew, when stock fell ill, antibiotics were the “go to” treatment, in fact, probably the only treatment available, as far as I was aware .By 2015 I had been keeping and breeding sheep, sheepdogs, pigs, beef cattle and poultry and had begun to question the wisdom and effectiveness of routine antibiotic and vaccine use with farm livestock.
“I felt there must be a better and more natural way of keeping stock healthy.”
I have not undertaken any formal training in herbalism, so my knowledge comes from experience acquired over time from many different sources. I have a large writing pad in which I have noted which herbal remedies are most effective for treating certain illnesses or diseases. This is an ongoing process and I am constantly adding both illnesses and remedies as they arise in our livestock. We have not had any antibiotics on the holding for about 4 years now, though we occasionally use a conventional wormer e.g. Albex, as well as a product such as Crovect or Clik for blowfly strike prevention or treatment.
As an experienced sheep farmer, I’ve discovered the power of herbal remedies for maintaining healthy flocks without relying on antibiotics. In this guide, I’ll share my journey into herbal medicine for sheep and provide practical tips for fellow farmers looking to embrace natural livestock care.
My Journey into Herbal Medicine for Sheep
In 2015, I began exploring herbal medicine for both personal use and livestock care. Unable to find a qualified animal herbalist, I turned to resources like Juliette de Bairacli Levy’s “The Complete Herbal Handbook for Farm and Stable” and consulted with other farmers using natural methods.
Top Herbal Remedies for Common Sheep Health Issues
- Garlic: A powerful antiseptic and anti-toxic herb, excellent for fever reduction and deworming.
- Slippery Elm Bark: Effective for treating scours, especially when combined with honey.
- Wormwood, Cinnamon, Cloves, Thyme, and Cayenne: A potent herbal deworming blend.
- Lavender and Tea Tree Oil: Natural treatments for foot rot and scald.
Natural Supplements for Sheep Health
- Seaweed Meal: Rich in essential minerals and trace elements.
- Himalayan Rock Salt: Provides over 84 minerals and trace elements.
- Local Honey: Excellent for boosting weak newborn lambs.
Transitioning to Herbal Medicine: Tips for Farmers
- Start with common herbs like garlic and gradually expand your herbal toolkit.
- Keep detailed records of treatments and their effectiveness.
- Combine herbal remedies with good husbandry practices for optimal results.
Challenges and Considerations
- Herbal treatments may require more time and hands-on administration compared to conventional methods.
- Some conditions may still require conventional treatments in severe cases.
Conclusion: The Future of Natural Sheep Care
By embracing herbal remedies, we can reduce reliance on antibiotics and promote sustainable, chemical-free sheep farming. As more farmers adopt these methods, we’ll continue to discover new and effective natural solutions for livestock health.
About the author
Liz Morgan
Disclaimer: I am not a qualified herbalist but am simply a stockperson and farmer who uses herbs with my animals to keep them healthy and happy. The herbs and remedies I have named are examples of what I have found to work with my stock.
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