Holistic Horse Health: Blue-Green Algae as an Organic Green Feed for Horses

Here is another guest post by my friend and amazing holistic horse vet, Dr. Madalyn Ward. Living in the desert, with hardly ever a blade of natural green grass or forage for my horses (as you can see in this picture), this article especially speaks to me!

Says Dr. Ward:

As I was finding yet one more use for my empty algae containers I got to thinking:  Since I started on a holistic horse health program about 20 years ago, Simplexity’s blue-green algae has been one of my most consistent recommendations as a feed for horses, and it has been a major part of the foundation of my own feeding program since I was introduced to it in 1992.

99 Uses for Algae Containers :   You can look in my feed room and you will see a few scattered, half-empty containers of various supplements I have tried, but you will always see dozens of empty algae containers! You will also see algae containers full of nails and loose screws, hose repair parts, staples and just about anything else I want to keep organized. I also have algae containers in every sack of feed, which serve as “scoops.” I know I am not the only one who does this, because many of my clients also report the amount of feed they give their horses in terms of algae “scoops.” Very handy, these empty algae containers!

I am thinking that anything that generates this many empty containers must be something good. And, in fact, blue-green algae IS something good and is a wonderful organic, green feed for horses.

Simplexity’s blue-green algae is processed uniquely and in such a way as to preserve the enzymes and vitamins it contains. Special processing also prevents degradation of the chlorophyll, which is very important. Chlorophyll is a nutrient that can cause stress on the liver if it is broken down before it is consumed, but fresh chlorophyll is very beneficial for the liver and blood. Blue-green algae is full of chlorophyll that is not broken down, so is an excellent source of this important nutrient if your horse does not have access to live, chlorophyll-rich forage.

Blue-green algae also contains a very balanced profile of trace minerals in a naturally chelated form. Some argue that the quantity of trace minerals in a teaspoon of algae is not enough to make a difference in an animal as large as a horse, but this has not been my experience. Since 97% of these minerals are assimilated they are far superior to inorganic minerals that may only be 10% absorbed.

As for macro-minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, they are also natural components of blue-green algae, but not in large enough quantities to provide for a horse’s daily needs. The good news is that most all horse feeds contain adequate amounts of calcium, and di-magnesium malate can be supplemented as needed.

The icing on the cake is that blue-green algae also contains long chain Omega 3 fatty acids, so is one of the best sources of this ultra-important fat that should be included in feed for horses.

My favorite form of blue-green algae to include in your feed for horses is Simplexity’s “APA” blend. This product contains not only blue-green algae, but also wheat sprouts, natural vitamin C, food-derived enzymes, and pre- and probiotics. As little as one teaspoon a day makes a difference, but one to two Tablespoons may be needed for a horse in heavy work. I feed more in extreme summer or drought conditions, and my horses come through with flying colors. The combination of micro-nutrients and digestive support makes all the difference when green grass is totally lacking and quality hay is hard to come by.

I am so grateful that I was introduced to blue-green algae and the other powerful, whole food based Simplexity products. With the exception of good quality grass hay, nothing has been more important in my holistic horse health feeding program for the last 20 years. I would love to hear what has stood the test of time in your holistic horse health program.

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