Benzyl Benzoate For Horses With Sweet Itch

Benzyl benzoate is a commonly used treatment for sweet itch in horses.

Sweet itch, is an allergic reaction to the saliva of biting insects, particularly midges. Benzyl benzoate is a topical medication that is applied to the horse’s skin to help alleviate the itching and irritation associated with sweet itch.

Benzyl benzoate works by killing the larvae of midges and other insects that may be present in the horse’s environment. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe the horse’s skin and reduce the severity of the allergic reaction.

Benzyl benzoate is typically applied to the affected areas of the horse’s skin once or twice a week during the peak midge season. It is important to follow the instructions provided by your veterinarian or the product label carefully, as overuse of benzyl benzoate can lead to skin irritation or other adverse effects.

In addition to benzyl benzoate, there are other treatment options for sweet itch in horses, including corticosteroids, antihistamines, and immunotherapy.

What is Benzyl Benzoate?

Benzyl benzoate is a medication that is commonly used in both human and veterinary medicine as a topical treatment for scabies and other skin conditions. It is also used as a treatment for sweet itch in horses, which is an allergic reaction to the saliva of biting insects, particularly midges.

Benzyl benzoate works by killing the larvae of mites and other insects that may be present on the skin. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce itching and inflammation associated with skin conditions.

Benzyl benzoate is typically applied topically to the affected areas of the skin, often in the form of a cream or lotion. It should be used only as directed by a healthcare professional or veterinarian, as overuse or misuse can lead to skin irritation or other adverse effects.

Although benzyl benzoate is generally considered safe when used as directed, it is not recommended for use in pregnant or nursing animals. It should also be used with caution in animals with sensitive skin or a history of allergies.

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What are thene benefits of applying benzyl benzoate to a horse with sweet itch?

The benefits of applying benzyl benzoate to a horse with sweet itch include:

  1. Kills larvae of biting insects: Benzyl benzoate is effective in killing the larvae of midges and other biting insects that may be present on the horse’s skin. This helps to reduce the population of insects and prevent further irritation and allergic reactions.
  2. Anti-inflammatory properties: Benzyl benzoate has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce the itching and inflammation associated with sweet itch.
  3. Provides relief from itching: Sweet itch can be extremely uncomfortable for horses, causing them to scratch and rub their skin, leading to further damage. Benzyl benzoate can provide relief from the intense itching, helping to prevent self-trauma.
  4. Easy to apply: Benzyl benzoate is easy to apply topically to the affected areas of the horse’s skin. It is typically available in a lotion or cream formulation, making it easy to spread over the skin.

What do you mix benzyl benzoate with for sweet itch

Benzyl benzoate can be mixed with various products to create a solution or lotion that can be applied to the affected areas of a horse’s skin to treat sweet itch. One common recipe for a benzyl benzoate lotion for sweet itch includes:

  • 250ml of benzyl benzoate
  • 50ml of surgical spirit
  • 200ml of distilled water
  • 1-2 drops of tea tree oil (optional)

To make the lotion, mix the benzyl benzoate and surgical spirit in a container. Then, slowly add the distilled water while stirring continuously to ensure that the ingredients are well mixed. If desired, add a few drops of tea tree oil for its antifungal and antibacterial properties. Transfer the lotion to a clean container with a lid for storage.

How to use benzyl benzoate for sweet itch

Here are the general steps for using benzyl benzoate for sweet itch:

Consult with a veterinarian

Before using benzyl benzoate or any other medication to treat sweet itch in your horse, it is important to consult with a veterinarian. They can help to confirm the diagnosis and recommend the best course of treatment for your horse’s individual needs.

Clean the affected area

Before applying benzyl benzoate, clean the affected area of the horse’s skin with warm water and a gentle soap. Pat the area dry with a clean towel.

Apply the benzyl benzoate

Apply the benzyl benzoate lotion or cream directly to the affected areas of the horse’s skin. Use enough to cover the entire area, but avoid over-applying, as this can cause skin irritation.

Follow the product instructions

Be sure to read and follow the instructions provided with the benzyl benzoate product carefully. The frequency and duration of application may vary depending on the severity of the sweet itch and the product used.

Monitor for side effects

Watch your horse closely for any signs of skin irritation or other adverse effects. If you notice any unusual symptoms, discontinue use of the benzyl benzoate and contact your veterinarian.


It is important to note that while benzyl benzoate can be effective in treating sweet itch in horses, it is important to use it only as directed by a veterinarian. Overuse of benzyl benzoate can lead to skin irritation or other adverse effects.

Apple Cider Vinegar For Sweet Itch – Does It Help?

There is some anecdotal evidence that apple cider vinegar may help with sweet itch in horses, but there is currently no scientific evidence to support this claim. Apple cider vinegar is thought to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may help to soothe irritated skin and reduce the risk of infection, but more research is needed to determine its effectiveness for treating sweet itch in horses.

What is apple cider vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is a type of vinegar made from fermented apple juice. It is produced by crushing apples to extract the juice, which is then combined with yeast and bacteria to begin the fermentation process. During fermentation, the natural sugars in the apple juice are converted into acetic acid, giving the vinegar its distinctive sour taste and pungent odor.

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Apple cider vinegar is commonly used in cooking and as a natural remedy for a variety of health concerns. It is believed to have many health benefits, such as promoting weight loss, reducing cholesterol levels, regulating blood sugar, and improving digestion. It is also used topically to soothe skin irritation, treat acne, and as a natural hair conditioner.

When purchasing apple cider vinegar, it is important to choose a raw, unfiltered product that contains the “mother” – a cloudy, web-like substance that forms naturally during the fermentation process. This is where much of the vinegar’s beneficial compounds are found.

Benefits of apple cider vinegar for a horse with sweet itch

There is limited scientific evidence to support the use of apple cider vinegar for the treatment of sweet itch in horses. However, some anecdotal evidence suggests that apple cider vinegar may have some potential benefits for horses with sweet itch:

Anti-inflammatory properties

Apple cider vinegar is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that may help to soothe the skin and reduce the itching and irritation associated with sweet itch.

Antimicrobial properties

Apple cider vinegar has antimicrobial properties that may help to prevent infections from developing in the open sores that can result from sweet itch.

Fly repellent properties

Some horse owners use apple cider vinegar as a natural fly repellent to help prevent midges and other biting insects from aggravating the horse’s sweet itch.

Skin conditioning

Apple cider vinegar is sometimes used topically as a skin conditioner to help keep the horse’s skin healthy and hydrated, which may help to prevent the development of sweet itch.


While these potential benefits of apple cider vinegar are promising, it is important to note that there is currently limited scientific evidence to support its use for sweet itch in horses. It is always best to consult with a veterinarian to determine the most effective treatment plan for your horse.

Does Brewers Yeast Help Horses With Sweet Itch?

Benefits of brewers yeast for horses with sweet itch include:

  1. Support the immune system and reduce the risk of infections and allergic reactions.
  2. Improve skin health and reduce the severity of sweet itch symptoms.
  3. Improve digestion and reduce the risk of digestive upset.
  4. Improve mood and reduce anxiety in horses with sweet itch.

Brewers yeast is a commonly used supplement in horses, and it has been suggested that it may help to alleviate symptoms of sweet itch. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support the use of brewers yeast for this purpose.

Brewers yeast is rich in B vitamins and other nutrients, and it is believed to support a healthy immune system and promote skin and coat health. Some horse owners and veterinarians have reported that supplementing with brewers yeast can help to reduce the severity of sweet itch symptoms, such as itching and skin irritation.

While there is no definitive scientific evidence to support the use of brewers yeast for sweet itch, some studies have suggested that it may have anti-inflammatory properties and may help to support the immune system. Additionally, brewers yeast is generally considered safe for horses to consume, and it is unlikely to cause any harmful side effects.

If you are considering using brewers yeast to help manage sweet itch in your horse, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian first. Your veterinarian can help you determine whether brewers yeast is a safe and appropriate supplement for your horse, and they can also recommend other management strategies to help alleviate sweet itch symptoms, such as environmental management, fly control, and topical or oral medications.

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What is Brewers Yeast?

Brewers yeast is a type of fungus that is commonly used as a dietary supplement for horses and other animals. It is produced by fermenting various grains, such as barley or wheat, with the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Brewers yeast is a rich source of B vitamins, particularly thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin. It also contains minerals such as chromium, selenium, and zinc, as well as other nutrients such as amino acids, beta-glucans, and nucleotides.

In addition to its use as a dietary supplement for horses, brewers yeast is commonly used in the brewing industry to ferment beer and other alcoholic beverages. It is also used in the production of bread and other baked goods, as well as in the production of nutritional supplements for humans and animals.

Brewers yeast is believed to provide a variety of health benefits for horses, including improved digestive health, immune system support, and skin and coat health. It is also used by some horse owners and trainers as a performance-enhancing supplement.

Brewers yeast is available in various forms, including powder, pellets, and flakes. It can be added to a horse’s feed or given as a supplement in tablet or capsule form. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dosage and administration, and to consult with a veterinarian before adding any new supplements to a horse’s diet.

Benefits of brewers yeast for horses

Brewers yeast is a popular supplement used in the equine industry, and it is believed to provide a variety of benefits for horses. Here are some of the potential benefits of brewers yeast for horses:

  1. Digestive health: Brewers yeast contains beneficial microorganisms, such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which can help to support a healthy digestive system in horses. These microorganisms may improve nutrient absorption and reduce the risk of digestive upset.
  2. Immune system support: Brewers yeast is rich in B vitamins, which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. Additionally, some studies have suggested that brewers yeast may have immune-modulating effects, which can help to support the body’s natural defenses against disease.
  3. Skin and coat health: Brewers yeast is a good source of biotin, which is essential for maintaining healthy skin and coat in horses. It may also contain other beneficial nutrients, such as zinc and selenium, which can help to promote healthy skin and coat.
  4. Performance enhancement: Some horse owners and trainers use brewers yeast as a performance-enhancing supplement, as it is believed to help improve energy metabolism and reduce the risk of exercise-induced muscle damage.
  5. Stress reduction: Brewers yeast may help to reduce stress in horses by promoting the production of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine. This can help to improve mood and reduce anxiety.

Benefits of brewers yeast for horses with sweet itch

Brewers yeast is a natural and nutritional supplement that can help horses with sweet itch in several ways:

Immune system support

Horses with sweet itch have an overactive immune response to the saliva of biting insects, leading to an allergic reaction. The immune system is essential for protecting the body from infections and illnesses. Brewers yeast is rich in B vitamins, including thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin, which are necessary for proper immune function. By supporting the immune system, brewers yeast may help reduce the severity of sweet itch symptoms.

Skin and coat health

Sweet itch can cause horses to experience hair loss, itching, and skin irritation. Brewers yeast is rich in biotin, which is essential for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat. Biotin is a B vitamin that promotes the growth of strong, healthy hair and hooves. It may also contain other beneficial nutrients, such as zinc and selenium, that promote healthy skin and coat. Supplementing with brewers yeast can improve the overall health and appearance of the horse’s skin and coat, helping to reduce the severity of sweet itch symptoms.

Digestive health

Horses with sweet itch may be more prone to digestive issues due to their compromised immune system. Brewers yeast contains beneficial microorganisms, such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which can help support a healthy digestive system in horses. It may also contain prebiotics, which are indigestible carbohydrates that promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. By improving digestive health, brewers yeast can enhance the overall health of the horse and help reduce the severity of sweet itch symptoms.

Stress reduction

Brewers yeast may help reduce stress in horses by promoting the production of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine. Horses with sweet itch may experience stress and anxiety due to their condition, which can exacerbate their symptoms. By reducing stress levels, brewers yeast can help the horse better cope with the symptoms of sweet itch.


It’s important to note that while brewers yeast can be beneficial for horses with sweet itch, it should not be the only treatment used. Other management strategies, such as fly control, environmental management, and topical or oral medications, may also be necessary to manage sweet itch effectively. Before supplementing with brewers yeast or any other supplement, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your horse.