Linseed for horses

Linseed, also known as flaxseed, is a small, dark brown seed from the flax plant. Horses are often given raw or processed linseed through mashes and concentrates. In concentrated feed, both linseed and linseed flakes (what remains of the seed after the oil is extracted) can be added. Linseed oil is also widely available and can be poured over horse feed.

Benefits of linseed for horses

Linseed can benefit many horses. Due to its protein content and rich supply of fatty acids, it can be especially valuable for foals and horses in training. Linseed is also popular around shedding and for a shiny coat.

Linseed is the richest plant source of omega-3 fatty acids for horses. Horses can benefit from extra omega-3 fatty acids to achieve a better balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can have a positive effect on skin and coat.

Boiling linseed

Besides these positive properties, raw linseed also has a disadvantage. The seeds contain the substance linamarin, which can be converted into toxic hydrocyanic acid (prussic acid) during digestion. Hydrocyanic acid is toxic because it interferes with the transport of oxygen through the blood. Therefore, whole raw linseed must always be boiled before it is fed to horses.

Boiling converts the linamarin to prussic acid, which immediately evaporates. Linseed should be boiled for about 10 minutes. While boiling, the seeds form a slimy mass. This mucus forms a layer on the intestinal wall.

Linseed in Hartog products

Hartog Lucerne Plus is made from lucerne enriched with linseed oil. Hartog Digest also contains linseed oil.