Agroforestry and regenerative agriculture is primarily based about increasing biodiversity.

Self-medication in livestock farming, and the significance of trees and hedges as providers of shelter and shade is well-known. However, the often-overlooked practice of hedgerow forage plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of farm animals. Recent research has unveiled the fascinating phenomenon of cattle self-medicating with plants rich in essential minerals and nutrients.

This article delves into the lesser-explored world of hedgerow forage and animal hospital fields, shedding light on its impact on animal health, with a particular focus on the remarkable benefits derived from specific trees and shrubs.

What is self-medicating in animal farming?

Self-medicating is a lost farming technic which allows the animals to treat themselves with natural produce available to them. This might sound odd but animals have an instinct or craving for certain things when they feel unwell.

The Self-Medicating Behavior of Cattle:

Cattle, given the opportunity, exhibit a natural instinct to self-medicate by seeking out specific plants and trees in their environment. Plants such as Ivy, Hazel, and various other ‘edible’ trees become essential components of their diet when they require specific minerals and nutrients. This behaviour highlights the innate wisdom of animals in maintaining their health and well-being through selective foraging.

Nutrient-Rich Trees for Animal Diets:

Fruit and nut trees emerge as nutritional powerhouses, providing animals with a diverse range of benefits. Hazel nuts, for instance, are packed with proteins, unsaturated fats, magnesium, calcium, and vitamins B and E. These elements contribute to heart health, muscle development, bone strength, joint health, and digestive well-being. Similarly, fruit trees such as pear and apple offer valuable dietary boosts for animals, ensuring a well-rounded nutritional intake.

Natural Deworming with Sweet Chestnuts:

The natural behaviour of animals extends to deworming themselves, by the consumption of Sweet Chestnuts. Animals actively seek out and break open the spiky shells of Sweet Chestnuts, a practice that aids in eliminating parasitic internal worms. This natural deworming process underscores the intricate relationship between animals and their environment, where they instinctively find remedies for health challenges.

Dietary Proteins and Trace Elements from Leaves, Berries, and Bark:

Beyond nuts and fruits, the leaves, berries, and bark of trees and shrubs play a pivotal role in providing animals with essential dietary proteins and trace elements. Zinc, copper, and water are crucial components sourced from these natural elements, contributing to overall health. Compounds like salicylic acid, found in Willow and Meadowsweet, offer benefits such as pain relief, improved tooth and gut health, and reduced internal parasite burdens.

Tannins for Health and Parasite Control:

Condensed tannins (CTs) present in trees and shrubs elevate the quality of protein delivered to the small intestine of cows. Unlike high-sugar content agricultural grasses, these tannins act as effective parasite control agents, with worms unable to develop resistance. Trees such as Willow and Meadowsweet contain salicylic acid, while various others are rich in tannins, collectively contributing to animal health and well-being.

Selenium and Copper for Disease Resistance:

Research suggests that selenium from Willow and copper from Hazel can enhance resistance to bovine Tuberculosis. These essential elements, naturally occurring in hedgerow forage, offer a holistic approach to disease prevention, showcasing the intricate connection between the environment and animal health.

Self-Medication and Hospital Fields:

In Wales it is common to have a “hospital field” These are fields with a huge variety of self-medicating trees and bushes. Once an animal is unwell it is placed into the hospital field to treat itself naturally.

In conclusion, the integration of hedgerow forage into the livestock farming landscape unveils a treasure trove of benefits for animal health. From self-medicating behaviours to the consumption of nutrient-rich nuts, fruits, leaves, berries, and bark, animals exhibit a profound connection with their environment.

The incorporation of hedgerow forage, rich in tannins, selenium, and copper, not only improves dietary intake but also acts as a natural remedy for various health challenges. As we continue to explore the nuanced interactions between animals and their surroundings, the importance of preserving and promoting hedgerow forage practices becomes increasingly evident in sustaining the health and vitality of our livestock.