About animalselfselection.co.uk

Zoopharmacognosy is the study of animals self-medicating by using plants and natural compounds found in their environment to prevent or treat health issues. This natural behavior is ingrained in animals, allowing them to distinguish between poisonous and medicinal plants. The term originates from Greek, combining words for “animal,” “drug,” and “knowing.”

Different plants serve unique roles for animals, often falling into three main categories:

Primary Metabolites (Food): These include carbohydrates and proteins essential for energy. Foods usually taste good and can be stored as fat if not immediately needed.

These plants contain secondary metabolites with therapeutic benefits. Often bitter, they aren’t stored as fat and are only consumed when needed. Once the animal no longer needs them, their appeal fades.

Secondary metabolites, found in medicinal and nutritional plants, support animals by interacting with their nervous systems, hormones, and cells. These compounds can be especially beneficial to wild animals, though they are often missing from the diets of farmed or domesticated animals. There are three major types of secondary metabolites:

Terpenes: Found widely in essential oils, these compounds regulate various bodily processes and are building blocks for proteins and carbohydrates.

Alkaloids: Often used by plants as a defense, these are bitter and discourage animals from over-consuming the plant. Over 12,000 alkaloid compounds are found in 20% of the world’s plant species.

Phenylpropanoids: Common in essential oils, these compounds contribute to the aromatic qualities of plants and can act as antimicrobials or insect repellents.

During zoopharmacognosy sessions, animals choose the plants and amounts they need. The results vary by individual; some animals show immediate improvements, while others may need multiple sessions. It’s important to note that zoopharmacognosy doesn’t replace veterinary care but can complement it, encouraging a more holistic approach to animal health.

In conclusion, zoopharmacognosy reveals the incredible ability of animals to interact with natural resources for healing and balance. By working harmoniously with nature, we can appreciate and perhaps even participate in these fascinating, instinctual practices that underscore the wisdom of the natural world.

 To ensure you gain the most from our time together, I will explain the process as we go, empowering you to continue these practices independently afterward. After the initial consultation, you may choose to explore deeper treatments by reintroducing similar or alternative herbal compounds or by booking additional sessions.

Many clients notice positive effects on their animal's health and well-being from the first session due to the self-selection method. However, because this approach is gentle, fully addressing root causes may require a series of sessions to resolve underlying issues.

Canine Consultations: Held on-site in our TW15 garden room, priced at £40.00 per session.
Equine Consultations: I can travel up to 30 miles from the TW15 area to meet your horse or pony's needs, at a cost of £50.00 per session, which includes travel expenses. 

To schedule a session, please contact me using the link below. Feel free to share details about your animal's requirements and your preferred dates for the appointment, and I will follow up with additional information.