OKAPI Bitter Herbs
For healthy digestion
500g sufficient for approximately 10–14 days
1,000g sufficient for approximately 3–6 weeks
3,000g sufficient for multiple horses
As low as
£24.90
Incl. 7% VAT,
excl. Shipping Cost
£49.80 / 1 kg
Availability:
In stock
Only %1 left
SKU
002
Prices include VAT; depending on the delivery address, VAT may vary at checkout.
More information.
More information.
What are OKAPI Bitter Herbs?
OKAPI Bitter Herbs are a carefully selected mixture of plants rich in bitter and tannin compounds. Wild horses instinctively choose such herbs to support their digestive system, particularly in the spring when fresh, juicy grass grows. Unfortunately, our modern horses often do not have access to these bitter-rich plants, whether in hay or on pasture, which is why feeding such a mixture is beneficial.
The effect of bitter compounds on digestion has been known for centuries. They stimulate the liver to produce more bile, which has a regulatory effect on intestinal motility and can promote digestion. Bitter herb mixtures are especially helpful during times when the gut is under strain, such as during the spring grazing period, after deworming, or in cases of sensitive digestion, to support the physiological balance of the gut.
Is OKAPI Bitter Herbs suitable for my horse?
In principle, OKAPI Bitter Herbs are suitable for adult horses of all ages and breeds. In cases where horses experience bloating, it is essential to consult a veterinarian, as this can indicate severe fermentation issues in the intestines, which may lead to colic. In such cases, we recommend starting with OKAPI Intestinal Support Herbs before using OKAPI Bitter Herbs to stabilise the natural gut environment.
The issue of laminitis is complex, with various causes and triggers. Therefore, it is advisable to coordinate the feeding in these cases with a qualified therapist or veterinarian. However, in general, there is no reason not to feed OKAPI Bitter Herbs, as they are preferred by wild horses to support the natural gut environment.
In den meisten Pflanzen, einschließlich unserer Bitterkräuter, ist in geringen Mengen Chrom enthalten, das der Körper für verschiedene Stoffwechselprozesse, einschließlich des Zuckerstoffwechsels in den Muskelzellen, benötigt. Unsere Bitterkräuter enthalten keine chromakkumulierenden Pflanzen, was sie für Pferde mit PSSM unbedenklich macht. Der Chromgehalt ist vergleichbar mit dem von normalem Grundfutter, und auch der Zuckergehalt ist gering, da wir keine Süßgräser verwenden. Daher sind unsere Bitterkräuter in der Fütterung für Pferde, die mit PSSM diagnostiziert wurden, insgesamt unbedenklich.
Can I combine OKAPI Bitter Herbs with other products?
OKAPI Bitter Herbs can be easily combined with other products. We recommend combining it with OKAPI Lapacho bark and OKAPI ColoBalance for further support of the gut flora.
How long should I feed OKAPI Bitter Herbs?
OKAPI Bitter Herbs should not be given for longer than six to eight weeks at a time. After this period, it is recommended to take a break for four to six weeks or switch to another herbal mixture. This also aligns with the natural feeding behaviour of horses. A proven method is to alternate between OKAPI Bitter Herbs, OKAPI Intestinal Support Herbs, and OKAPI Grazing Herbs in a two-week rotation throughout the winter.
How is OKAPI Bitter Herbs fed?
OKAPI Bitter 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.
How do I calculate the correct dosage for my horse?
To calculate the appropriate dose for OKAPI Bitter Herbs, the following steps can be followed:
Determine the horse’s weight: The weight of the horse can be determined either by weighing it, measuring it with a tape measure, or by using apps like the BCI app from our partner Sanoanimal (available for free on Google Play and the Apple Store).
Follow the feeding recommendation: The general recommendation for OKAPI products is based on a 600 kg horse.
The recommended daily amount is 30 g to 50 g (approximately one handful).
Adjust the dose: If the horse weighs, for example, 300 kg, the dose should be adjusted accordingly. The calculation would be: Daily dose (50 g) / 600 kg × Horse’s weight (300 kg) = Daily ration (25 g). This calculation method allows you to determine the appropriate amount.
What is included in OKAPI Bitter Herbs?
OKAPI Bitter Herbs is a 100% herbal blend containing: yarrow, couch grass root, blackberry leaves, oregano, fennel, meadow caraway, dandelion roots, centaury, blueberries, oak bark, wormwood, and coriander.
Analytical constituents: Crude fibre: 22.00%, Crude protein: 10.40%, Crude fat: 4.20%, Crude ash: 7.80%, Calcium: 1.18%, Phosphorus: 0.22%, Sodium: 0.07%
Complementary feed for horses
Store in a cool, dry place! Best before: see label.