The Horse's Immune System
- for a strong immune system
- for an optimal immune response
- supports the body's defenses from the inside
What Belongs to the Immune System?
The immune system is a network of organs, cells, proteins and sugar compounds that work together to protect the body from infections and diseases and to heal it. To achieve this goal, the following tasks need to be carried out:
Disease-causing agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites, known as pathogens, should be recognised, killed or removed, or ideally prevented from entering the body in the first place. The number of antibodies should be increased and multiplied, and antigens already fought should be stored in a registry to enable fast recognition and combat on the next contact. Damaged tissue should be found and repaired. This sounds not only very elaborate, but these are indeed complex, multifunctional biochemical processes.
The immune defense cells (immunoglobulins, acute-phase proteins) are constantly active and travel through the bloodstream, or are components of the blood itself. However, antibodies can be found in various locations such as the bone marrow, spleen, lymphatic system (thymus, all lymph nodes) and in different tissues such as the intestines, lungs, and gastrointestinal mucosa. Immune cells are mainly produced in the bone marrow, though sometimes not yet fully differentiated and activated. In the lymphatic system already mentioned, some of the cells are fully determined and activated once they encounter antigens on site.
So where do these processes actually take place? Where exactly is this immune system?
These two terms are similar to a lock-and-key principle, to put it simply. By definition, antigens are substances that can trigger an immune response in a foreign organism. Among other things, they lead to the formation of antibodies. These antibodies are created specifically to react with the structures of the invading antigens.
Each antibody matches one antigen, which consists of glycoproteins and resembles a Y in structure. In horses, they are well researched due to their use in producing immune serum. Worth mentioning are IgD, IgA, IgM, IgE, and IgG (7 subclasses).
- IgA is found mainly in body fluids such as saliva, intestinal secretions, milk, and mucous membranes.
- IgM activates the complement system (non-specific, innate immune system) in the early stage of the immune response.
- IgE is mostly bound to membrane receptors of mast cells and basophil granulocytes. When it binds to allergens, it prompts the mast cells to release histamine and other inflammatory mediators. This leads, for example in the case of sweet itch, to a hypersensitivity reaction of the immune system.
- IgD is responsible for activating B lymphocytes.
- IgG, with its 7 subclasses, makes up the majority (80%) of immunoglobulins in the blood and acts mainly against viruses, bacteria, and parasites.
When anatomical barriers such as epithelial cells of the skin and tissue fail to prevent the entry of pathogens or toxins, or when physiological defenses via tears, bleeding, stomach acid, i.e. secretions in general, fail, antigens enter the horse's body and, ideally, trigger an immune response. The leukocytes (white blood cells) circulating in the blood are the cells mainly responsible for the immune system. They are divided into further groups such as
- neutrophil granulocytes (non-specific defense, mainly found in pus)
- eosinophil granulocytes (defense against parasites)
- basophil granulocytes (histamine, heparin, serotonin)
- monocytes/macrophages (phagocytize, i.e. "eat" their prey)
- mast cells (trigger anaphylactic reactions in allergies)
- B lymphocytes (acquired immune response, meant to ramp up antibody production once the pathogen is recognized)
- T lymphocytes (matured in the thymus, T-helper cells because they help B cells multiply, memory cells)
As you can see, the immune system consists of many complex biochemical processes, most of which have been very well researched in human and veterinary medicine.
When a pathogen (or let's call it a foreign cell structure) enters the body, the goal is for the matching B lymphocytes to multiply, differentiate, and form antibodies. These are also called immunoglobulins (Ig).
Conclusion - How the Immune System Is Built
A strong immune system is essential for a horse's health, as it fights off infections and can help prevent issues like mud fever, sweet itch, or sarcoids. It consists of a complex network of organs, cells, and biochemical processes that recognize antigens and fight them with antibodies. Particularly important are white blood cells (leukocytes) and immunoglobulins such as IgG, IgA, and IgM, which control specific defense mechanisms. Targeted support of the immune system through species-appropriate housing, a balanced diet, and stress avoidance can strengthen a horse's defenses and help keep it healthy in the long run.
What Happens When the Immune Response Goes Wrong?
A well-functioning immune system is linked to a good balance between activating and inhibiting processes. If an immune response doesn't proceed correctly, contact with a foreign structure leads either to no activation (immunosuppression) or a hypersensitivity reaction (autoimmunity). According to Gerber/Straub, hypersensitivity reactions are divided into 4 different types, with the type best known to us horse owners being the immediate reaction (Type 1), which especially manifests as summer eczema. Without an immune reaction, pathogens can multiply and spread without restriction. Apart from genetic causes, autoimmune conditions often arise from the lack of transfer of immunoglobulins (colostrum, the mare's first milk) through the mare's milk, which can often have serious consequences for the foal. Chronic respiratory conditions, chronic bacterial infections and mycoses (fungal conditions) also suggest an acquired immune deficit. Researchers in veterinary immunology even see a connection between sex hormones and autoimmune conditions.
How can I recognize a weakened immune system?
Generally speaking, in the case of injuries and wounds the immune system is placed under heavy strain; on one hand from fighting off invading pathogens, and on the other from stopping bleeding and wound repair (tissue repair). The immune defense cells carry out their tasks until the number of pathogens becomes too high to destroy or break down. The immune response becomes too weak, pockets of pus form, swelling, fluid retention, etc. follow. So it can generally be assumed that with injuries, surgeries, chronic inflammation the immune system is occupied or weakened, and support would make sense.
Animals with metabolic issues almost always show a weakened immune system, since an active metabolism is the basis for fast communication between cells, or between cells and organs. If this communication is disrupted, it results either in a strongly delayed immune response or even an overreaction, as the sluggish metabolism passes on incorrect information to the immune defenses (see hypersensitivity reaction above).
Typical conditions accompanied by a weakened immune system show up mainly on the skin, such as sweet itch, viral diseases (e.g. equine sarcoid), bacterial infections (e.g. staphylococci), fungal infections (e.g. ringworm), as well as parasite infestation from worms and/or mites. If your horse's skin shows sudden, significant changes, it can be assumed that a weakened or oversensitive immune system is involved and needs support.
How can I support the immune system?
In the case of severe infections, consulting a vet is urgently recommended and necessary! However, there are many factors that we as horse owners can influence that have a major impact on how well the immune system functions.
High-quality hay is essential. It minimizes the strain from bacteria, mold, and other contaminants that could weaken the immune system. Careful harvesting and storage of the hay also helps better preserve minerals and vitamins.
It's important not to burden the digestive tract with excessive concentrate feed or unnecessary supplements. A large part of immune defense takes place via stomach acid, the stomach lining, and intestinal secretions. That's why small feed portions should be spread throughout the day. Targeted support of the digestive tract can also improve immune responses.
Horses with metabolic issues such as EMS often struggle with a weakened immune system. Toxins in the body hinder cell renewal and should therefore be addressed with a targeted metabolic and detox program. Excess weight as well as a lack of essential nutrients further contribute to a sluggish metabolism.
Regular exercise, targeted muscle training, and an adjusted nutrient supply support immune stability.
A balanced supply of all essential nutrients, matched to the horse and its forage, is crucial. Particularly important for the immune system are:
✔ Zinc – supports immune defense
✔ Vitamins C, B, and K – support cell protection
✔ Essential amino acids – not only promote muscle development but are also involved in building immune cells
With the right combination of feeding, exercise, stress management, and targeted nutrient supply, a horse's immune system can be sustainably strengthened.
Chronic stress – whether from conflicts within the herd or frequent changes of stable or herd – can put considerable strain on the immune system. Lack of exercise, long periods standing in the stall, or poor air quality, for example from dusty riding arenas, also increase the risk of respiratory conditions.
After surgery or serious injuries, the horse should be protected from excessive strain on the immune system and unfavorable weather conditions (e.g. through stall rest or quarantine boxes). Still, short walks – if possible and permitted – are a valuable support for the lungs, circulation, and mental well-being.
Conclusion - Immune System
A functioning immune system is the result of a balanced interplay between activation and regulation. If this balance is disrupted, it can lead to immune deficiencies or overreactions such as autoimmune conditions. Typical signs of a weakened immune system in horses include chronic infections, skin changes and increased susceptibility to parasites.
To support the immune system, species-appropriate feeding, a stable herd structure, plenty of exercise in the fresh air and needs-based nutrient supply are essential. Stress reduction and targeted metabolic support help strengthen the immune defenses and maintain health in the long term.
EWALIA Immune Vital Liquid with herb profiles
Our Immune Vital Liquid contains water, rosehip, echinacea, licorice root, fennel, gentian, hawthorn, nettle, and lemon balm. It is a highly concentrated herbal extract that contains no preservatives, added sugar, or other chemical additives, making it suitable for horses with metabolic issues. Below you'll find the tailored herbal blend profiled individually.
Special ingredients:
Rosehip contains a lot of vitamin C, other vitamins (A, B1, B2, K, P), minerals, fruit acids, flavonoids, tannins etc.
Effectiveness and areas of use:
Mainly antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and improves blood lipid levels (clinically confirmed). A moderate effect on osteoarthritis is also clinically documented.
It boosts the body's defences and is used in the treatment of colds and flu-like infections. Vitamin C strengthens antibody formation. During fever and colds, the vitamin C level is used up very quickly, the same applies to wound healing.
💡 Find out more: Rosehip
Special ingredients:
The main component is glycyrrhizin, a mixture of potassium and calcium salts of glycyrrhizic acid (50x sweeter than cane sugar).
Effectiveness and areas of use:
Glycyrrhizin has a strong anti-inflammatory (antiphlogistic), antiviral and antimicrobial effect, and temporarily increases the half-life of cortisol and aldosterone. An anti-ulcerogenic effect (reduction of stomach acid), especially after prolonged use of pain medication, has been demonstrated experimentally. In general use, licorice root is said to have an expectorant, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effect and is used for coughs, gastritis and stomach ulcers.
💡 Find out more: Licorice
Special ingredients:
Essential oil (trans-anethole, fenchone, estragole etc.). A distinction is made between bitter and sweet fennel, whose biochemical ingredients differ slightly in concentration.
The active substance in fennel is the essential oil. It consists of 50-70% of the sweet-tasting trans-anethole and the camphor-flavoured fenchone and other substances. It is very similar to anise oil.
Effectiveness and areas of use:
The proven range of effects extends from antimicrobial, antispasmodic, secretolytic (mucus production), expectorant to antiphlogistic (anti-inflammatory). In folk use, it is used for cramp-like stomach and intestinal complaints, menstrual cramps, as an expectorant cough remedy, for calming, and as a carminative (against flatulence).
💡 Find out more: Fennel
Special Ingredients:
Bitter compounds, mainly gentiopicrin and the recently discovered bitter compound amarogentin, which has the highest bitterness value, small amounts of tannins, and essential oil.
Properties and Traditional Use:
Gentian root is a pure bitter-tasting herb. Its other components play only a minor role. The tannin content is very low, which matters a great deal for its use as a stomach tonic, since unwanted irritant effects are avoided as a result. Poor appetite, stomach weakness with reduced gastric acid secretion, disturbances of gastric emptying, flatulence, as well as cramping and slack conditions of the stomach and intestines are areas where gentian tea has traditionally been used. Gastric acid production is stimulated. The bitter compounds act partly through contact with the mucous membranes in the mouth, where they trigger reflexes, and partly after being absorbed into the horse's body. It is one of the oldest known herbs valued for its bitter compounds, documented as far back as Hippocrates (5th century BC).
💡 Learn more: Gentian
Special Ingredients:
The positive effect of Crataegus (hawthorn) develops only through the interplay of all its active compounds, resulting in an enhanced overall effectiveness. These are mainly flavonoids, oligomeric proanthocyanidins, biogenic amines and others.
Properties and Traditional Use:
Hawthorn is traditionally valued in connection with heart health and is associated with a wide range of heart and circulatory concerns. Long-term use is generally considered well tolerated. Hawthorn can also be a good source of support during periods of increased stress, as it is traditionally linked to overall heart performance such as coronary blood flow, and to a calming effect on "nervous" hearts.
💡 Learn more: Hawthorn
Special Ingredients:
1-2% flavonoids, 1-4% (partly water-soluble) silicates, scopoletin and sitosterol, caffeic acid esters, polyphenols, protein, fat, carbohydrates and vitamin K.
Properties and Traditional Use:
Nettle leaves are mainly associated with increasing urine output and elimination, thereby supporting metabolism. In humans, they are traditionally associated with men's prostate wellness.
💡 Learn more: Nettle
Special Ingredients:
The most important component is the essential lemon balm oil containing citronellal, citral and caryophyllene. Its minerals, tannins and bitter compounds, as well as small amounts of flavonoids, should also be mentioned.
Properties and Traditional Use:
The calming effect of lemon balm is its most notable characteristic. It is traditionally associated with easing nervousness from sensory overload, with a soothing effect on the stomach (associated with spasmolytic, carminative properties) and on mood, and with supporting the body's natural defenses.
Historical research has explored properties described as: antiviral against herpes simplex, influenza, and myxoviruses. Aqueous lemon balm extract (specifically rosmarinic acid) has been studied for its potential to limit virus adsorption and reduce virus entry into cells in laboratory settings. A mild sedative-like and stomach-soothing (supporting gastric mucus) property has also been described in such research.
💡 Learn more: Lemon Balm
Special ingredients:
Echinacin, Echinacoside
Effectiveness and areas of use:
Handed down from the indigenous peoples of America, this plant was used for the healing of wounds of all kinds. Since the 20th century it has been known that certain compounds in coneflower trigger biochemical processes against bacteria and even viruses. Further active substances boost the body's defences and are recommended in human medicine as a supportive measure alongside chemotherapy. Classically, it is counted among cold remedies.
💡 Find out more: Coneflower/Echinacea
Conclusion – Medicinal Herbs
Ewalia Immunvitalsaft combines the concentrated power of proven medicinal herbs to strengthen the defenses and support metabolism – ideal for horses, including those with metabolic conditions. The rosehip it contains provides valuable vitamin C, while echinacea activates the immune system. Licorice has an anti-inflammatory effect, fennel and gentian support digestion, and hawthorn strengthens the cardiovascular system. Nettle stimulates the metabolism, and lemon balm provides calming and antiviral protection. Free of sugar and artificial additives, this herbal extract offers natural support for your horse's health.
Frequently Asked Questions💡
For existing problems or symptoms: 👉 Here we recommend the course with 6 liters
We recommend feeding the increased amount (3 times the daily dose) at the start. Stay on the high dosage until an improvement occurs, plus 2 days. Then feed twice the normal amount. If the improvement continues, feed the remaining bottles at the normal dosage. How much needs to be fed always depends on the individual issue, i.e. whether improvement occurs faster or not.
For prevention: 👉 Here we recommend the course with 3 liters
To help prevent problems and support general well-being: preventively, meaning no increased amount, just the normal amount for at least three weeks.
Not sure whether your horse will eat our products? No problem! We offer our EWALIA Eating Guarantee.
If your horse doesn't accept our products, we'll refund the full purchase price. How does it work and what do you need to consider? Simply send the products back to us within 30 days of purchase and fill out our form with the details of your order, a short, unedited video of your horse, and proof of purchase.
If you purchased your EWALIA products from a retailer, contact the retailer directly within 30 days of purchase with your proof of purchase and video. They will refund the purchase price immediately. The Eating Guarantee can be used once per customer on products ordered for the first time. The guarantee covers up to two different products per order.
You can find more information about our Eating Guarantee here in our terms and conditions: Eating Guarantee.
1. Better absorption and availability
Herbal liquids contain the active ingredients in dissolved form, which makes absorption in the body easier. They tend to be better tolerated, especially for animals with sensitive digestion or poor chewing ability (e.g. older horses or dogs).
2. Higher bioavailability
Because of the liquid form, nutrients and secondary plant compounds are absorbed into the blood more quickly, so they take effect sooner. Dried herbs first need to be broken down in the digestive tract, which takes longer.
3. No dust exposure
Dried herbs can be dusty, which can be a problem especially for sensitive airways (e.g. horses with equine asthma (RAO/COPD) or dogs with allergies). Herbal liquids are dust-free and therefore also suitable for animals with respiratory conditions.
4. Easier dosing & feeding
Herbal liquids are easier to mix into feed or give directly into the mouth. Especially with picky animals, the liquid form can be an advantage, as acceptance is often higher than with bitter-tasting dried herbs.
5. No risk from inferior feed quality
Some dried herbs lose their active compounds through improper storage or contain fungi, mold, or contaminants. High-quality herbal liquids are freshly pressed and gently processed, so the ingredients are largely preserved.
We recommend feeding our product twice daily. This ensures that the body can absorb the valuable herbal active ingredients as effectively as possible. One option is for the feed to be prepared the evening before for the morning feeding, by the stable hand etc., as long as it's given within 24 hours (especially important in summer). Alternatively, one portion can be fed before and one after the riding session.
If twice-daily feeding isn't possible, we recommend giving 80% of the total daily dose to achieve the desired effect. For example, that would be 112 ml once daily for a total daily dose of 140 ml (70 ml + 70 ml). Our experience shows that regular twice-daily feeding is the best option for getting the most out of our products.
You'll find all further questions in our 👉 FAQs
Our products serve as a supportive measure in the form of complementary feed and do not replace veterinary examinations.
Yes, up to 3 liquids can be fed at the same time.
