Meadowsweet

Description

One ingredient. Dried meadowsweet. That’s it.

Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) is the original source of salicylic acid — yes, the same active compound aspirin was synthesized from. The word “aspirin” itself is derived from the old botanical name for meadowsweet, Spiraea ulmaria. It’s been used for centuries in European herbal traditions to support joint and muscle comfort, digestive soothing, and healthy inflammatory response. It’s the Science Fangirl’s favorite “how did this become a pharmaceutical” origin story. We source it human-grade and hand it to you as a single-ingredient pouch, full transparency, full control.

What is meadowsweet used for in horses?

Meadowsweet is traditionally used to support joint and muscle comfort, digestive comfort (especially in horses with gastric sensitivity), and a healthy inflammatory response. Its natural salicylates work differently than isolated synthetic aspirin — the whole-plant matrix includes tannins that are traditionally associated with being gentler on the gastric lining than pharmaceutical salicylates.

Is meadowsweet safe for competition horses?

Important competition note: Meadowsweet contains natural salicylates and may affect competition swab tests. Most governing bodies (FEI, USEF, and similar) treat salicylates as controlled substances. If your horse competes, withdraw meadowsweet per your discipline’s published withdrawal times before competition. Verify current rules with your governing body.

Is meadowsweet safe for metabolic horses?

Yes for the metabolic side — single-ingredient meadowsweet contains no added sugar, no salt, no copper, and no electrolytes. It is safe for horses with insulin resistance (IR), Cushing’s disease (PPID), equine metabolic syndrome (EMS), and laminitis. However: because of its salicylate content, meadowsweet is not recommended for horses with active bleeding disorders, horses on NSAIDs (bute, banamine, previcox), or horses on blood-thinning medications — talk to your vet first.

How do I give meadowsweet to my horse?

Meadowsweet is traditionally given as a top-dress on feed or brewed as a tea-style infusion. Start with a small serving and work up over 5–7 days. It’s often used as shorter-term support for specific needs rather than an every-day daily staple. Your vet or equine nutritionist can advise on specific daily dosages for your horse’s weight and condition.

What’s in it

• Dried meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria). That is the complete ingredient list.
• Human-grade.
• Made in Land O’ Lakes, Florida.

What’s NOT in it

• No added sugar, salt, or electrolytes
• No copper, no fillers, no gums, no “natural flavors”
• No isolated synthetic salicylates — this is the whole plant, not the pharmaceutical extract

Who it’s safe for

Horses in heavy work or recovery. Horses with gastric sensitivity (meadowsweet has a long traditional reputation for being easier on the stomach than synthetic salicylates). Horses with insulin resistance (IR), Cushing’s disease (PPID), equine metabolic syndrome (EMS), and laminitis. Not recommended for horses on NSAIDs, blood thinners, or with bleeding disorders. Not recommended for competition horses without proper withdrawal timing. Part of the Farmily — safe across species at appropriate doses and with the same cautions.

Pairs well with

Meadowsweet appears in several of our Packs: Joint & Circulation Pack, Digestive Pack, and Respiratory & Muscle Recovery Pack. For a broader joint-comfort approach, it pairs naturally with turmeric and rosehip.

Improve Equine is made in Land O’ Lakes, Florida. Meadowsweet is the plant that became aspirin. We’re giving you the plant — you decide what to do with it.

Important: This product is a health-supportive food-grade botanical. It is not a medicine, is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and is not a substitute for veterinary care. Meadowsweet may affect competition swab tests — verify your discipline’s withdrawal requirements. Not recommended for horses on NSAIDs, blood thinners, or with bleeding disorders. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new supplement.