Benefits of Aloe Vera for Hair and Skin
Horses’ skin can be just as sensitive as ours, or maybe even more so.
So when your horse suffers from insect bites, sunburn, dry skin or hot allergic reactions, what do you reach for? There are so many products on the market espousing their healing benefits, and while I’m sure you’ve all got your favourite “go-to” remedy, mine is aloe vera.
This one simple, natural remedy, straight from the garden, can soothe and heal both my horse’s skin and my own.
Why Aloe Vera is a Must-Have for Horse Owners
Aloe vera (Aloe Barbadensis Miller) isn’t just a decorative succulent. It’s a powerhouse of vitamins, enzymes and amino acids that support healthy skin and hair. It’s been used for centuries in natural remedies for humans – and horses benefit from it just as much,
Whether your horse struggles with queensland itch (sweet itch), sun sensitivity, allergic skin reactions, or simply irritated skin, aloe’s soothing gel can make a noticeable difference.
Benefits of Aloe Vera for Horses
1. Soothes Skin Irritation and Itchiness
Horses are prone to skin flare-ups – from insect bites, sweat or rubbing under rugs. Aloe vera’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it ideal for calming itchy spots, supporting natural healing, and discouraging bacterial growth.
It’s especially useful for allergic horses who often develop hives, rashes or scurfy skin. A thin layer of aloe vera gel can help cool and comfort these areas without harsh chemicals that could trigger further irritation.
2. A Natural Sun Soother
Horses with pink noses, white blazes or thin coats can suffer from sunburn, just like us. Applying fresh aloe gel cools the skin instantly, rehydrates dry areas and supports. recovery. It’s a must have in summer to soothe the skin after sun exposure.
3. For the Allergic Horse: Cooling Relief
If your horse struggles with seasonal allergies, you know how frustrating it can be. Constant itching, hair loss and inflamed skin can affect their comfort and performance. Aloe vera’s natural antihistamine-like effects can help reduce inflammation and itching, providing gentle relief without the use of harsh medicated products.
4. Coat and Mane Conditioner
I’ve recently discovered another surprising use for aloe vera – mixed with a little water or natural oil, it makes a nourishing mane and tail conditioner. Or use it as a full body spritz for a natural coat conditioner.
5. Economical, Natural and Non-Toxic
One of the best things about aloe vera is that it’s safe – no harsh chemicals, no artificial perfumes and no additives – and you can grow it yourself, easily, at home
Growing Your Own Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is one of the easiest plants to grow. I'm no gardener, but my mother gave me a plant many years ago and not only did it manage to survive and thrive, but it has multiplied to the point where we regularly give plants away to friends and family.
Choose the Right Pot and Soil:
Use a terracotta or clay pot with good drainage, gilled with cactus or succulent mix. Aloe vera hates wet feet, so make sure excess water can drain freely
Sunlight:
Aloe thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. A sunny windowsill or spot near the stables that gets morning light is perfect.
Watering:
Water sparingly – about every 2-3 weeks. Let the soil dry completely between waterings. Too much water is the quickest way to kill it.
Harvesting the Gel:
When you need some, choose one of the larger, outer leaves. Slice it open lengthwise and scoop out the clear gel inside. You can apply it directly to your horse’s skin or mix it into sprays and conditions (warning – it’s slippery)
Storage Tip:
Keep extra gel in a small jar in the fridge for up to a week. Applying cool gel improves it’s cooling and soothing effect, especially for sunburn relief.
DIY Aloe Remedy for Horses (and you)
This quick and easy DIY aloe remedy for horses works wonders for soothing irritation, cooling sunburn, or adding shine after grooming.
Ingredients:
1 cup distilled water
¼ cup fresh aloe vera gel
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for extra antibacterial properties)
A few drops of lavender essential oil (test first for sensitivity)
Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a clean spray bottle.
Shake well before each use.
1. Spray lightly on dry patches, rubbed areas, or sun-exposed skin.
2. Store in the fridge and use within a week.
This simple, natural spray used as part of daily grooming is, cooling, hydrating, and gentle enough for both me and my horse.
Summing it Up
Aloe vera is one of those “must have” plants in your garden. It’s easy to grow, safe to use and incredibly versatile.
Whether you use it straight from the leaf or whip up your own DIY aloe remedies for horses, this healing plant can bring comfort and calm to even the most sensitive equine.
🐴Together - making our horses’ lives better – Yvette
Related HorseTalk blogs:
Allergies in Horses – Breaking the Cycle
Insect Bite Hypersensitivity (IBH) in Horses
Related Independent Resources:
“Aloe Vera: a wonder plant its history, cultivation and medicinal uses” – Saul Goodman 16 February 2023
“Aloe vera (Barbados Aloe)” – Gardenia (not dated)
Disclaimer: These are my thoughts and opinions and should not be considered expert or medical advice. I recommend that you seek professional advice in relation to your horse/s.
