A Sunny Threat: Buttercups and Horses
At this point in Spring, fields up and down the country are literally bursting with buttercups.
A consequence of overgrazed pasture or wet paddocks, creeping buttercup thrives in compacted soil, so this year they’re a reality for most horse owners.
Perfect for pollinators such as bees and insects, buttercups (which belong to the Ranunculacaea family) contain a toxin called protoanemonin. This toxin is particularly problematic for horses as it can cause digestive issues, skin irritation, and even colic if ingested in large quantities. And while its bitter taste generally makes it unpalatable for horses, it can be consumed when other forage options are scarce.
The Science Behind the Toxin
The culprit behind buttercup toxicity, protoanemonin, is a blistering agent. Studies have shown that it disrupts cellular processes and alters the permeability of cell membranes. This can lead to the various symptoms observed in horses, including:
Gastrointestinal Distress: When ingested, protoanemonin irritates the digestive tract, causing excessive salivation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain (colic).
Skin Irritation: Contact with buttercup sap can cause dermatitis, especially on sensitive areas like the lips, muzzle, and lower legs. This is particularly concerning for horses that like to roll in fields.
Light to the Rescue: Photobiomodulation
When any illness or injury presents, your first port of call is always your vet.
But following assessment (and treatment), photobiomodulation (or low level light therapy) could have a part to play in your horse's recovery.
This therapy utilises specific wavelengths of light to promote healing and stimulate cellular processes. While research on photobiomodulation for buttercup toxicity in horses is still in its early stages, existing studies on wound healing and inflammation offer promising insights.
Here's how different wavelengths could benefit:
Red Light (630-670 nm): Studies have shown red light to be effective in reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair. This could potentially help alleviate skin irritation caused by buttercup sap.
Infrared Light (700-1000 nm): Infrared light can penetrate deeper into tissues, promoting cellular growth and regeneration. This could be beneficial for healing any internal damage caused by protoanemonin ingestion.
Blue Light (400-490 nm): Blue light has been shown to have antimicrobial properties. While buttercups themselves aren't microbial, this could be helpful in preventing secondary infections from skin lesions caused by the toxin.
Has your horse suffered with buttercup sores this year? Do share your story!
