Acupressure Approach to Skin Disorders in Horses

Horse guardians dread seeing any skin disorder and especially fungal and bacterial conditions like ringworm, girth itch, and rainrot. Once any skin disorder sets up, it is a challenge to eliminate them for one horse let alone the entire barn or stable.

From the Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, the first line of defense for skin disorders is prevention. When fungal and bacterial skin issues do arise, they are considered "toxic damp heat." There are herbs that are highly effective for these conditions, though only a Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medical Doctor can prescribe herbs.

When a horse has a healthy, balanced immune system, his body can defend itself from skin disorders. By adding a short acupressure session to a grooming regime, horse guardians can boost the horse's immune system needed to ward off dreaded fungal or bacterial skin issues.

Immune System Boost Acupressure Session

There are specific acupressure points that can support the horse's immune system and defend the body from skin issues. By placing the tip of your thumb on the acupressure points (also called "acupoints") pictured in the chart and being sure to do this on both sides of the horse's body, you will be enhancing the flow of Chi, life-promoting energy, throughout his body. Suggested acupoints are:

Large Intestine 11 (LI 11), Crook in the Pond, is commonly used to maintain the health of the skin while also boosting the immune system.

Stomach 36 (St 36), Leg Three Mile, is known for its ability to enhance the flow of Chi throughout the horse's body, which serves to support the immune system.

Bladder 13 (Bl 13), Lung Transporting Point, is directly connected to the energy of the Lung which is responsible for the health of skin in general. Bl 13 has the added attributes of relieving itching and eliminating damp heat.

These acupoints, combined with a healthy lifestyle and a clean environment, can keep your horse's skin strong and his spirits high.