Potentially Unsafe Herbs for Pets

Unsafe Herbs for Pets

The following unsafe herbs are potentially dangerous for use in animals and care should be exercised when using them:

Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)

While this herb (and its essential oil) is an effective insecticide, it is toxic to dogs and cats at high doses.

In particular, it should NEVER be used in pets with existing kidney disease.

The essential oil of pennyroyal is extremely concentrated and, to be on the safe side, should not be used on dogs and cats, especially if they are pregnant.

Tea Tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)

Undiluted tea tree essential oil is VERY toxic to cats and small dogs. (In fact, cats are extremely sensitive to essential oils and it is better not to use essential oils on cats.)

For bigger dogs, use tea tree oil with care. Always dilute the essential oil (0.5-1%) in a carrier oil (e.g. olive or almond oil). Test a small patch of skin prior to use as some pets may be sensitive to the oil.

For more information on tea tree oil for dogs, please visit this page.

Comfrey (Symphytum officinale)

Comfrey contains small quantities of alkaloids that can cause liver damage or cancer if taken in large quantities or prolonged period of time.

Since the alkaloid concentration is ten times higher in the root than the leaves, DO NOT use comfrey root internally.

Comfrey dried leaves, on the other hand, contains very little alkaloids so use the dried leaves if needed.

If you plan to give comfrey leaves to your pet internally, use it for short periods and in moderation. Also, do not use comfrey in pregnant or lactating pets or those with pre-existing liver disease.

White Willow Bark (Salix alba)

White willow bark contains salicylates (same as in aspirin) which may be toxic to cats. Also, do not give this herb to your dog if he is taking NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

Ma Huang (Ephedra sinica)

This Chinese herb is most commonly prescribed for pets with asthma or respiratory problems.

But beware! It can cause heart arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat) and high blood pressure in animals. Some reports also state that it may cause idiosyncratic reactions in cats. Use with great caution in all pets.

Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus)

Tarragon is commonly used as a culinary herb. It has antioxidant properties, helps digestion, stimulates the appetite, and relieves stress and anxiety.

Used in small amounts, it is safe for dogs to eat.

However, do NOT use this herb medicinally (i.e. in large amounts) with dogs since it may slow blood blotting. In particular, it should NOT be fed to dogs who are pregnant, and should NOT be given to dogs who are scheduled for surgery.

The essential oil of Tarragon should NOT be used on dogs due to one of its chemical components, estragole. If used regularly, this component has been found to cause liver damage. The essential oil also may interfere with blood clotting.

Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)

Wormwood is a traditional deworming herb but many herbalists find it too strong for pets. The reason is, wormwood contains strong volatile oils, tannins, and bitter principles.

If used excessively, it can irritate the liver and kidneys, and may even damage the nervous system in extreme cases.

The dilemma with wormwood is, if used in small amounts, it is ineffective in deworming. If used in bigger doses, it may cause problems to our pets!

Since there are other safer natural remedies for deworming, consider using other methods to deworm pets. Use wormwood with extreme caution and only under strict holistic veterinarian advice.

Yucca (Yucca schidigera)

If used in large doses or over an extended period of time, yucca can irritate the stomach lining and intestinal mucosa, which may cause vomiting and bloating.

If used in small doses, yucca is safe. Avoid giving yucca to your pets more than 4-5 times per week, more than a month or two at a time, or during pregnancy.

Garlic (Allium sativum)

Garlic in large amounts can cause Heinz body anemia in dogs and cats. (Therefore, it is not advisable to use garlic in pets with anemia.)

BUT - if fed in small amount, garlic is good for many uses, including the treatment of parasites such as fleas and worms, microbial infections, and in the treatment of cancer.

One clove of garlic per 10 pounds of body weight for dogs (and 1/2 clove per cat) can usually be fed safely each day.

Visit our page on Garlic for Dogs for more information on this herb.