Hi Dapples

You are not alone in this problem. I am receiving many queries about dogs (and horses) that are scratching themselves to bits. The priority is to determine the reason for the itching therefore if your vet could assist with diagnosing the problem it would be first prize. Itching skin can be due to many reasons and the diagnosis will depend on which herbs to use internally and externally. If the animals go on to the herbal blends we recommend and we do not see an improvement then we look at the other possibilities as well as the cause of the allergy. What I mean by this is if the allergy is not caused by the environment but is for example food related then treating them with herbs will assist to some degree however the problem will actually be maintained until the diet is changed.

Allergic reactions can be from a reaction to drugs and chemicals (maybe lying stretched on the floor that has been chemically treated), sensitivities to certain foods and contact dermatitis. Some animals also develop a terribly itchy skin from irritation from fleas (you have eliminated this being a cause) and skin infections as well. As mentioned, herbal treatments do vary depending on the cause of the allergy or itch so it is always best to try and establish what the cause is and eliminate the cause and the symptom. What I can say is that many Jack Russell’s do develop an allergy to the grass – and they so love rubbing their tummies on it!

Allergic reactions can be caused by the diet that they are on as can many other skin, coat and odour related problems – many dogs taken off the canned and pelleted foods and put onto raw and/or natural food diets have improved drastically. I know there was a discussion a while back on HJ about this so you can have a look there for information. If you don’t come right I have information on this and will gladly upload it for you.

If the allergy is food related, medication to control the allergy may suppress the allergic symptoms but will not cure or reverse it. However diet related allergies are quite slow to reverse and takes patience. The skin may become worse for the first while after changing their diet as their skin works overtime to eliminate toxins etc.

It is always good to boost their immune system if they have an allergy. The most widely used one and most easily accessible is Echinacea and even Olive leaves or Olive leaf extract can be used and these also have an anti-microbial action which will be beneficial. Eyebright can be used for allergies – mostly where the eyes are affected and will also help with inflammation. Ginger can settle an upset stomach caused by food allergies. Stinging nettle will assist with cleansing the blood. Herbs that contain natural cortisone and anti-histamine can also be beneficial – sadly many of these are not readily obtainable in most health shops. Liquorice root has been proven to have a certain amount of natural cortisone which may be beneficial internally and externally. Then of course Rooibos Tea (preferably green) has been known to assist with allergies and to some degree also does help to boost the immune system. Kelp is a great source of minerals and is excellent for skins and coats.

A tea made from Stinging Nettle and Green Rooibos will make a good rinse externally. Add a few drops of aloe vera, lavender, peppermint and chamomile essential oil to it. These will help stop the itching. Neem oil is good to use for many skin problems however I have to warn you that in the pure form the ‘fragrance’ is rather potent.

DISCLAIMER: The information presented above is intended for educational purposes only and no healing claims are made through documenting the information. Results may vary according to the individual animal and their health. Optimum results for any condition are obtained by knowing which herbs to safely combine. The herbs mentioned are only a few that can be used for the condition queried about which are readily obtainable in the South African market. When used responsibly all the herbs mentioned are safe to use however due to the fact that the herbs will be administered outside of my direct supervision I cannot accept any responsibility should any problems arise as a result of using them. When feeding herbs safely the various factors need to be taken into consideration including health related issues, pregnancy and the use of pharmaceutical medication simultaneously. For advice on correct dosages and safety precautions for your particular animal please speak to your vet, a herbalist in your area or contact me directly.

Hi Dapples. I’m glad that she is doing a bit better and at least you have narrowed it down to most likely a grass allergy.

You could put her on the herbs to help with the allergy – adding them into the food, especially herbs that contain natural cortisone and anti-histamines. That would certainly help her to cope with coming into contact with the grasses.

If she doesn’t have too much hair what I would do if I were you is make a cream with some essential oils and plant oils and rub it on her prior and after the walk to help to prevent the itch. It is quite possible that this will be sufficient as a preventative. Flaxseed oil will help with inflammation and I would perhaps include Neem oil and Aloe Vera (the oil, not the gel). To this I would add a few drops of Lavender, Chamomile, Rose and possibly Melissa essential Oils. Mix these together and then blend them into a cream base and rub them into the areas where she itches after the walk and see if it helps at all. If she is prone to allergic reactions the best is to use a base that does not contain perfume.

If this still doesn’t help then you are welcome to email me at royalynne@retreat2eden.co.za and I will see if I can help her in any way.