Monk's pepper (Vitex agnus-castus) is a traditionally used, herbal feed supplement for horses and dogs. The plant, also known as the chaste tree, has a long history of use, particularly in Central Europe, and is used today as a herbal supplement in daily or seasonally adjusted feeding regimens.
The seasons, the amount of daylight, and changes in the environment are a natural part of an animal’s biological rhythm. In horses in particular, these variations can coincide with changes in, for example, behavior, sensitivity, energy levels, and general temperament. During such periods, many horse owners choose to review their entire feeding regimen and supplement it with selected plant-based ingredients.
Monk’s pepper is one of the herbs traditionally used in this context and is suitable when you want to introduce plant-based variety as part of a balanced diet. It can be fed continuously or used seasonally, for example during periods when the horse’s behavior or energy level changes in conjunction with the changing seasons.
Properties
-Monk’s pepper – Vitex agnus-castus
-Traditionally used herbal feed supplement
-For horses and dogs
-Suitable as part of the daily feeding regimen
-Can also be used seasonally
-Popular during periods of changes in behavior, sensitivity, or energy levels
-Suitable during seasonal changes and shifts in daylight hours
-Plant-based supplement to a balanced diet
-Long tradition of use
Dosage
Horse approx. 500 kg
Continuous use: 1–2 tbsp per day
Seasonal use: 2–3 tablespoons per day
Dog
Daily use: ⅓–1.5 teaspoons per day
Seasonal use: no more than 2 tsp per day
1 tablespoon ≈ 8 g
1 teaspoon ≈ 2.7 g
Combinability
According to the product information, monk’s pepper can be used together with devil’s claw or combined with, for example, chamomile or raspberry leaves as part of a customized feeding regimen.
Things to Keep in Mind
Not recommended for pregnant, lactating, or breeding animals.