Dog Skin Allergy Herbs

In many cases, dog skin allergy herbs are the same herbs used to treat skin problems in people. Even if the skin problem is caused by an allergy, it's important to treat the problem on the outside as well as on the inside. Sometimes the allergens are so widespread they can't be eliminated all together. Herbal treatments can help a dog feel more comfortable in spite of its allergies. Herbs can be orally administered or used topically on the coat, depending on the herbs.

Aloe vera is a well known plant derivative that is very healing to any sort of skin problems. It can be found in many commercially available dog products, or you can break off a leaf of the houseplant and squeeze it directly onto the irritated skin.

Calendula is another good skin herb that is sometimes used in cooling, refreshing sprays for dog skin. Since dogs often lick and bite themselves until they develop a skin infection, another good herb to look for in a spray treatment is echinacea, a potent antibacterial agent.

Herbal dog medicines are available in a granular form that can be sprinkled on the dog's food. Some botanical ingredients to look for in this type of supplement are feverfew, eyebright, chrysanthemum, cocklebur, turmeric, and green tea leaf. These ingredients support the immune system and relieve allergy symptoms including runny, itchy eyes.

Some dog skin allergy herbs can be found growing wild. Great burdock root contains healing properties. Used topically, it can draw toxins from a wound. Marshmallow is an herb that is healing to the skin. The "low" version of this plant can be found growing in yards. Another common herb useful for treating skin problems is plantain. Yarrow is a lacy looking wild plant with a distinctive smell. It's easy to identify and good for the skin. Shepherd's purse is one more useful skin herb.

Any of these wild plants can be brewed into teas and used to bathe infected and irritated places on your dog's body. They can be purchased in bulk from a health food store if you can't find them wild, or are unsure of their identification.