Zoopharmacognosy refers to the process by which animals natuarlly forage
and self select plants and plant extracts to self medicate.
The Ingraham method of applying this to domesticated animals
is a growing area of interest in animal wellbeing, and is the subject of a number of scientific studies.
Applied Zoopharmacognosy provides a behavioural method of helping animals. It involves
offering choices of essential and macerated oils, and dried plants for self selection. Animals utilise the plant extract
as they need it; via inhalation, ingestion or sometimes topically.
The animal's body language indicates appeal
or lack of appeal for the plants and oils they are being offered. It is therefore vital to be aware of facial and
body language responses when offering.
In accordance with the Ingraham method, animals do not choose
to overdose on pure raw plant oils and powders. However, education is required for the person offering these choices,
so that are aware of the types of oils and plant extracts that are appropriate to offer, and understand the method of application.
They must also recognise self medicative behaviour in animals.
Animals with a wide variety of issues have
responded well to this method, including behavioural / emotional problems, physical problems, poor digestion, poor coat,
skin problems and low immune system.
Jo has used this method with champion show cats, Crufts qualifiers
and advanced event horses amongst others.
Jo runs introductory workshops in Applied Zoopharmacognosy.
These educate people in innate behaviour, body language communication and some of the most popular oils and dried plants self
selected by animals for their wellbeing.
