What is the main focus of the current trend in veterinary practices?

The resurgence of herbal medicine in veterinary practices offers natural solutions for pet health. Swiss veterinarians are integrating traditional herbal knowledge with modern veterinary practices to provide holistic treatments for animals. Herbal remedies like Esparsette are being explored to combat parasites, addressing the issue of parasite resistance. Furthermore, this approach involves preventative care and allows for individualized treatment plans based on the animal's history and condition.

What does holistic veterinary care mean?

Holistic veterinary care integrates traditional practices with modern science to provide comprehensive animal care. In the context of this field, it means blending traditional herbal knowledge with contemporary veterinary practices. This involves using natural remedies and preventative care while also considering the animal's entire well-being, not just treating specific symptoms. The approach includes understanding the animal's environment, metabolism, and individual needs, as demonstrated in the thorough anamnesis used for dogs.

What is the significance of Esparsette in this context?

Esparsette is mentioned as a herbal remedy that has the potential to combat parasites. This is significant because it addresses the growing issue of parasite resistance. Instead of relying solely on conventional treatments that can lead to resistance, the use of herbal remedies provides an alternative approach. This offers a more sustainable and holistic method of parasite control, emphasizing natural solutions. This focus aligns with the broader trend towards integrative veterinary medicine and the importance of preventative care.

Why are individualized treatment plans important?

Individualized treatment plans are essential because they cater to each animal's specific needs, taking into account their history and current condition. Ulrike Biegel demonstrated the importance of a thorough anamnesis for dogs, highlighting the need for direct interaction and observation. By considering an animal's unique characteristics and health profile, veterinarians can develop more effective treatment strategies. This holistic approach underscores the shift towards comprehensive animal care that goes beyond simply treating symptoms and focuses on promoting overall wellness through tailored care.

A veterinarian gently examines a dog in a clinic filled with medicinal plants.

Holistic Veterinary Care: Integrating Herbal Medicine for Animal Wellness

Q: What is the role of the Society for Complementary Medicine Research (SMGP)?

The Society for Complementary Medicine Research (SMGP) is at the forefront of promoting and researching integrative methods in veterinary medicine, especially in Switzerland. Their annual meetings serve as a platform for sharing knowledge and advancing the field. The 28th Annual Meeting of the SMGP, held at the Research Institute for Biological Agriculture (FiBL), showcased how Swiss veterinarians integrate traditional herbal knowledge with modern practices. The SMGP's work underscores the importance of combining traditional knowledge with modern scientific advancements to offer more effective care for animals.

Kai Mendoza in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"Explore the resurgence of herbal medicine in veterinary practices and how it offers natural solutions for pet health."

The field of veterinary medicine is increasingly embracing holistic approaches to animal care, integrating traditional practices with modern science. One such approach gaining traction is the use of herbal medicine, offering natural alternatives and complementary treatments for various animal health issues.

In Switzerland, the Society for Complementary Medicine Research (SMGP) is at the forefront of promoting and researching these integrative methods. Their annual meetings serve as a platform for sharing knowledge, discussing challenges, and advancing the field of complementary veterinary medicine.

This article delves into the proceedings of the 28th Annual Meeting of the SMGP, held at the Research Institute for Biological Agriculture (FiBL) in Frick, Switzerland. We'll explore how Swiss veterinarians are blending traditional herbal knowledge with contemporary practices to provide comprehensive care for animals.

The Power of Plants: Herbal Remedies in Action

A veterinarian gently examines a dog in a clinic filled with medicinal plants.

The SMGP meeting highlighted the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern veterinary practices. Michael Walkenhorst discussed the traditional use of medicinal plants in Swiss livestock farming, emphasizing the fascinating connection between a cow's metabolism and its environment. He noted that cows maintain a similar metabolic rate to horses trotting, which explains why they thrive in cooler winter conditions.

Ulrike Biegel demonstrated how to conduct a thorough anamnesis (medical history) for dogs, emphasizing the importance of direct interaction and observation since animals cannot verbally communicate their symptoms. This holistic approach includes observing the animal's reactions and preferences, such as using treats to administer medication.

Parasite Control: The meeting addressed the growing issue of parasite resistance and the potential of herbal remedies like Esparsette to combat parasites without causing resistance.
Holistic Immune Support: Emphasized the importance of allowing young animals to develop their immune systems through natural exposure to parasites.
Individualized Treatment: Highlighted the need for tailored treatment plans based on a comprehensive understanding of the animal's history and current condition.

Florian Leiber presented the research priorities at FiBL, emphasizing the complexity of biologically oriented agriculture and its impact on animal health. The integration of these diverse elements showcases a commitment to a holistic approach to veterinary medicine, combining the best of traditional knowledge and modern scientific advancements.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Integrative Veterinary Care

The 28th Annual Meeting of the SMGP underscored the growing importance of integrative veterinary medicine. By combining traditional herbal knowledge with modern scientific practices, veterinarians can offer more comprehensive and effective care for animals.

The discussions at the meeting highlighted the need for continued research, education, and collaboration to advance the field. The success of initiatives like SMGP-vet demonstrates the potential for specialized communities to drive innovation and promote best practices in veterinary phytotherapy.

As the demand for natural and holistic pet care solutions increases, the integration of herbal medicine into veterinary practices is poised to play a crucial role in promoting animal wellness. The next SMGP annual meeting in Romandie in April 2018 promises to continue this important dialogue and further shape the future of veterinary medicine.