Description
Support for Normal Blood Sugar Handling
It is not only Diabetics who need to have better handling of their blood sugar (glucose). All animals need to manage and deal with blood sugar as part of a normal daily life – and it becomes even more important to support the normal handling and processing of blood glucose, as many of today’s diets offer calories from a variety of inappropriate sources of foods.
It is not only Diabetics who need to have better handling of their blood sugar (glucose). All animals need to manage and deal with blood sugar as part of a normal daily life – and it becomes even more important to support the normal handling and processing of blood glucose, as many of today’s diets offer calories from a variety of inappropriate sources of foods.
It is not just dogs and cats who experience “energy spikes” from diets. Horses, cattle, and other farm animals are often fed grains, pellets, or “sweet feed” – that is not necessarily normal for them. Used as an additional way to offer calories or additional nutrients – most would fare better if they were just allowed to graze on good pasture.
It is not just obesity we are concerned with – although that is certainly a problem. Many of my clients who had anxiety, nervousness, unruliness, or unrest of various emotional sorts – greatly improved when fed a species appropriate diet. Grain free and carnivorous for cats, mainly grain free for dogs, and eliminating grains and high energy foods from horses. The brain becomes super-charged on inappropriate diets – sort of like kids on sugar – and if an animal leans toward being anxious, they are even more likely to behave that way on “sugar”.
Other factors in blood sugar handling and management stem from the “dead food” issue. Today’s diets are basically void of natural enzymes – unlike “real” foods that would rot and decay with time…most of our convenience diets can sit on a shelf for many, many months before “expiring”. That is why real grass pasture, and raw diets can be very beneficial – they still contain nutrients and enzymes as they should be provided through Mother Nature. However, not many people “do” raw correctly. There are just as many pets (possibly more) who are usually set back by a poor attempt to feed raw, than there are who are helped by it (especially evident when you are a veterinarian seeing these cases!). That is why many vets will hem and haw at the concept of raw. We rarely see it done well – and we are the ones who DO see it done wrong. I have two resources that I recommend if home-prepped or raw diets are on your to-do list. First – Dr. Karen Becker’s book – Real Food for Healthy Dogs and Cats – CLICK HERE. And for raw food – I have really found that Raw Bistro – CLICK HERE – is one of the best companies who is really “doing it right”. Raw Bistro does not have their cat products out yet – but if you contact the company, they can give you more information on feeding Raw Bistro to your cat – we add this to our cat’s regime, and they do really well with it. Another book I highly recommend is Unlocking the Canine Ancestral Diet by Steve Brown. He has worked with Dr. Becker and Raw Bistro – and I consider him one of the foremost experts on natural dietary needs. During a conversation with Steve, I was happy that he was in support of my favorite Standard Process supplements as well – as I do feel that these are incredibly important to add to any diet along with Digestive Enzymes. Even if you are feeding THE MOST perfect diet in the world, it is important to recognize that your animal likely did not start out that way. Most of the time, we are changing and improving diets because there IS a health concern. So – with these facts in mind – it is unlikely that just an ideal diet alone will attend to the fact that the animal has been vitamin, mineral, and enzyme deficient for a big part of its life. Please see the page Foundation of Health for more information on diets, enzymes, and supplements for health and healing.
Holistic Advice for Diabetics
In our veterinary practice, I really did not have many diabetic patients. If the animal had been in my care, it was likely that they had already been counselled in preventive diet and lifestyle. Junk dog and cat food being fed was a rarity for my patients, and good health practices were encouraged from the very first puppy or kitten visit. Cases that were suspected to be “early” diabetics – immediately had their diets changed, supplements and supporting oils added, and their “Foundation of Health” met – before ever starting on insulin therapy. More often than not – these animals never needed insulin. Animals who did come into our practice who were on insulin shots, always had come for a second opinion from another veterinary hospital. Although we would still apply the same protocol for those on insulin – we had to watch a bit closer to make sure that our beneficial changes did not require that less insulin was needed. When starting a holistic plan for an animal on insulin – it is highly important that you work directly with your veterinarian to monitor blood sugar levels, blood glucose curves, and insulin levels being given. Many times, I describe the process as “reverse” of how you introduced insulin therapy. We start with lower doses, recheck blood glucose curves, and adjust the dose of insulin based on response. When improving the diet, adding supplements, or adding beneficial essential oils into a diabetic animals’ regimen – we have to also monitor in the same ways. But often, we are looking at the possibility of needing LESS insulin. This is why I like to start a newly diagnosed diabetic animal with their holistic changes before I start any insulin therapy when possible. I have seen just a diet change alone, result in a cat that is “no longer” diabetic. Insulin in these situations can be dangerous – because if the body no longer needs an insulin shot, and we still give it – we can cause a medical crisis.
Enter SugarBalance
SugarBalance is a Ready To Use (RTU) product – which is already diluted to a rate that most animals can tolerate easily. SugarBalance builds upon our KittyBoost formula – adding a myriad of “sugar handling” essential oils to the already amazing and supportive blend. KittyBoost, as well as SugarBalance, is not “just for cats” – read below for directions for each species.
SugarBalance can be used to support those with Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome, Pancreatic Insufficiency, Insulinoma, obesity, poor metabolism, tendency for lipoma formation, Hypoglycemia, and basically all functions associated with the proper use of energy within the body. As essential oils work with the body to support normal levels – SugarBalance can be helpful for both high blood glucose levels as well as low. SugarBalance is still of benefit, even for animals without health issues – as it supports a normal functioning of the body.
Ingredients
Fractionated Coconut Oil, Essential Oils of Black Cumin (Nigella sativa), Frankincense (Boswellia carterii), Thyme (Thymus vulgaris), Myrtle (Myrtus communis), Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus), Anise (Pimpinella anisum), Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens), Coriander (Coriandrum sativum), Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans), Copaiba (Copaifera officinalis), Helichrysum (H. italicum), Oregano (Oreganum vulgare), Basil (Ocimum basilicum), Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens), Marjoram (Origanum majorana), Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Peppermint (Mentha piperita), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha), Lemon Basil (Ocimum citriodorum), Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata), Catnip (Nepeta cataria), Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus), Melissa (Melissa officinalis), Dill (Anethum graveolens), German Chamomile (Matricaria recutita), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanica).
Base Oils
Our KittyBoost product is the base for SugarBalance. By adding specific essential oils that support Cardiovascular function and health, the KittyBoost becomes ThyroBalance…
Frankincense* is heavily researched for anti-tumor activity. It is helpful to support behavioral conditions, depression, brain disorders, seizures, immune system stimulation and regulation, autoimmune disorders, DNA repair, and more. Frankincense is also considered a “life force” oil and has been used extensively in critical cases in our veterinary hospital. Frankincense also seems to be what we refer to as a “magnifying” oil – which means that is appears to magnify and enhance the effects of other essential oils when they are used concurrently.
Copaiba* supports the body when inflammation is present – and inflammation is present in all situations of illness. Healing of the body can take place with greater ease, when the stress of dealing with inflammation can be removed. Stress depresses the immune system, as well as results in delayed healing – not only from illness, but form surgical procedures and injury. Copaiba also tends to magnify the effects of other oils and natural remedies as a regular course of action.
Helichrysum* is truly a miraculous oil, and is worthy of use with almost every situation. Helichrysum tends to bring the body to a point of homeostasis. Whatever is needed within the body, appears to be honored. Helichrysum is especially indicated to support nerve regeneration and neurologic conditions, hearing impairment, circulatory and blood vessel disorders, heart disease, blood clots, liver disease, hypertension, chelation of chemicals, toxin exposure, poisoning, vaccination detoxification, healing of lacerations and wounds, for control of pain. There is not much that Helichrysum does not contribute to, and it falls into a category of “must have” oils in my opinion.
Oregano* has many reported properties, which even alone, would be amazing. Then, when added with Thyme, the supportive properties increase even further – especially in regards to supporting the immune system. These are “hot oils”, high in phenols, and must be used properly in animals, especially cats. Although these oils may carry more concern for some to see in a product for use with cats, rest assured, that I have used these formulas with thousands of cats, and even have documented blood work safety data for over 3 years on a cat who is getting an application of these oils TWICE A DAY! These oils are an amazing part of the KittyBoost when used in proper dilution.
Basil* is widely used to support normal histamine levels in our veterinary practice. Although there have been some cautionary statements in regards to Basil with individuals who seizure or have epilepsy, we have not found this to be an issue when used properly. The KittyBoost has been a hallmark treatment for many of our patients, especially those with seizures, and although we monitor all animals closely for any sort of adverse response to oils (no matter what the oil is) – in practice we have seen many more benefits than reasons to avoid the use of Basil. Basil is helpful with liver and pancreatic concerns, and so much more.
Cypress* is mainly used to increase circulation, and aids in every condition with this quality. After all, almost every function in the body relies on proper circulation to work properly. Resorption of bruises, improvement of circulation, and circulatory disorders are primary attributes of this oil.
Marjoram* is well known as one of the “muscle” essential oils, but it is also indicated for body and joint discomfort, arthritis, respiratory conditions (expectorant and mucolytic), muscle spasms, muscle conditions, increasing healthy motility of the gastrointestinal tract, fluid retention, lowering blood pressure, vasodilation, circulatory disorders, and nerve pain. Marjoram carries effects for menstrual problems and PMS in humans, which appears to carry over into hormonal issues in animals as well. Marjoram is an important part of our Hormone Blend.
Lavender* is also well known for use with muscular issues, however, Lavender is an oil that is a veritable “Jack of all trades.” Unfortunately, Lavender is also one of the most adulterated and synthetically altered essential oils on the market today. Very few available Lavender oils are pure enough to be called veterinary grade, or qualify for use in animals. We source our Lavender from a grower/distiller that I personally know, and the wonderful qualities of this particular source of oil, is exceptionally suited for use in animals. We are very fortunate to have continued and excellent access to this limited commodity of high quality oil. Lavender is especially indicated for skin conditions, muscular concerns, for calming effects, for burns and frostbite, high blood pressure, cardiac issues, insomnia, and more.
Peppermint* – when used properly, Peppermint is highly beneficial and not overwhelming to animal systems. Peppermint is often used as a “driving oil”, which means that it appears to enhance the penetration of other oils. Peppermint’s reported properties include supporting the body against inflammation, bacteria, viral, and fungal infections, gall bladder and digestive stimulation, and appetite suppression (although we also find that it’s anti-nausea effects can help animals who are also not eating).
Catnip oil* is a relative newcomer to the scene of essential oils for animals. I have been “dabbling” with it for several years, as much of the research associated with it, considers it to be a more effective insect repellent than DEET. And, of course we know that cats and catnip have a long “romance” if you will. Catnip oil as an undiluted or neat oil – is actually quite repulsive. It is intensely strong, and must be diluted for proper use (or if you want other humans to want to be near you!) Since cats need routine help with flea prevention, ear mites, and even repelling of ticks – Catnip oil has become a fun introduction to our veterinary line up. Not only do cats love it for the “happy feelings” that it brings, but the anti-bug properties are showing amazing promise.
Fennel* carries with it benefits and support for blood sugar balancing, blood purification, urinary tract health, support of milk production, and gastrointestinal concerns.
Myrrh* is often referred to as a “Mother Oil” it is that important. Myrrh is also supportive for many endocrine and hormonal conditions including support of the Thyroid, growth hormone production, pituitary gland function, and hypothalamus function. Since many cats are prone to Hyperthyroidism, Myrrh is an important inclusion to KittyBoost.
Citronella* is also included in the KittyBoost for its safe and documented use for insect repellent properties in humans and animals.
And finally, Melissa essential oil* is one of my favorites, and falls into a “must-have” category of oils for me. Although being quite an expensive oil, not many people were able to afford routine access to it, even when it would make critical differences in their animals’ health. Melissa is a powerful oil with a very high vibrational energy. Melissa is incredibly supportive to the body in fighting viral conditions and also has very high histamine balancing type actions. Melissa is used to support the body for many conditions including depression, anxiety, pruitis (itching), hives, seizures, anaphylaxis, nausea, indigestion, liver and gall bladder concerns, and even cardiac issues.
Added Oils
Certain oils contribute special characteristics for sugar handling, while many added to SugarBalance promote proper digestion also.
Black Cumin: In the world of Black Cumin oil there can be “expeller pressed” versions as well as “cold pressed.” They both have their purposes, however the cold pressed oil would be considered more therapeutic in action. Thymoquinone is one of the main constituents of interest, and has shown a lot of promising research in a variety of areas, as shown in this research HERE. Black Cumin is especially added for its potential benefits for diabetes.
Myrtle: Has been shown to lower blood glucose, helps to balance the Thyroid, and can aid in urinary issues that can be common when glucose is passed into the urine.
Lemongrass: Has been reported to increase glucose tolerance, and decrease plasma insulin. It has also been recommended to support bladder infections.
Anise: May be helpful with water retention, induces glutathione (hepatoprotective), and may enhance glucose absorption in the Jejunum (intestine).
Geranium: Known for creating homeostasis in the body, stimulates healthy adrenocortical gland function, and balances the hormonal system – and is reported to have great support for diabetes. Geranium has also been reported to aid in neural based pain, which can occur with diabetes.
Coriander Seed: Known for gastrointestinal help, support of the Liver and appetite, it is also reported to help balance blood sugar.
Nutmeg: Has been known to aid in digestion, hypertension, and also balance appetite and support sugar handling as a whole.
Copaiba: Magnifies the use of other oils, while contributing high anti-inflammatory properties.
Helichrysum: An amazing oil in almost every way, it has been used by the French to also help regulate cholesterol.
Basil: Indicated for conditions of the Pancreas as well as for insufficient digestive enzymes.
Marjoram: Shows benefits for high blood pressure, digestion, as well as
Fennel: Has shown the ability to reduce blood glucose levels in diabetic rats, while being hepatoprotective as well as supporting digestion.
Lemon Basil: Reported to increase glucose tolerance, and lower plasma insulin.
Ylang Ylang – Wonderful for balancing the entire body – Ylang Ylang can contribute to proper blood pressure levels as well as aid in proper digestion.
Dill: As an aid for digestion, it also is reported to support diabetes and sugar handling.
German Chamomile: Has many attributes, supporting the liver and gall bladder as well as normal cholesterol levels.
Spearmint: Has often been indicated to ease nausea, constipation, diarrhea, and all sorts of digestive issues, but also is likely to be hepatoprotective as it has been show to increase Glutathione S-transferase. Spearmint is often indicated as a digestive aid, which is important for proper sugar handling.
Cinnamon: Cinnamaldehyde has been shown to decrease plasma glucose levels. Although Cinnamon is known as a “hot” oil, in proper levels and with proper dilutions and considerations, its benefits can shine while not overwhelming the skin or animal.
Instructions for Use
SugarBalance
PrintSugarBalance is NOT for Diffusion…As it contains Fractionated Coconut Oil
Almost all animals can use SugarBalance. Although, further dilution may be required for certain species. For animals completely new to essential oil use – please check back for our new educational page soon – for much more in depth descriptions and examples.
Birds & Small Exotics: For these animals, it is wise to start with a more diluted product. I recommend placing 1 part SugarBalance into 10 parts of Fractionated Coconut Oil (FCO) – so for example 10 drops of SugarBalance into 100 drops of FCO. (You can mix these new dilutions in our glass bottles available on our Accessories Page). Ideally, this mixture is rocked several times a day, and allowed to “marry” for 24 hours or more before use. This solution can then be used similarly to our CritterBoost product – and a visit to that educational page may add some additional insight. The information on our Birds or Exotics pages in the top menu – is also helpful in understanding the use of essential oils for these particular animals.
Birds and Chickens can have the diluted SugarBalance rubbed into their feet. Even having it completely absorbed into your hands, then having your parrot perch on your hands, will enable enough essential oil to cross over, and provide a health benefit! For a smaller bird, such as our Lovebird – I will typically put about 2 drops of the diluted SugarBalance on my fingers, and then massage it onto her feet and ankles – avoiding her feathers. For our Chickens, we can do the same, however we can use approximately 3-5 drops massaged into each foot. Chickens are overall very hardy, and can be exposed to essential oils in many ways to maintain health and help prevent illness. Many Chickens can use SugarBalance undiluted, and directly from the bottle. For chickens – also see our information on ChickyWicky.
Ferrets: Being prone to Insulinoma Tumors – Ferrets can use SugarBalance to help support their system. For ferrets who are new to oil use, you may also wish to start with a diluted solution (as described above) initially. Then gradually increase the strength over time. In general for most ferrets – dripping 1-5 drops into your hands, rubbing them together, and applying the oils in a Petting manner works great. You can also drip the oils up their back, then massage them in. I will usually apply the SugarBalance once, then wait and see how the ferret does. Sometimes we see no change, and that is okay too. But, occasionally a ferret that feels unwell, will certainly start to show that they are feeling better. When this happens – then I try to time the next application for when the “feeling” wore off. Basically tailoring the frequency that we apply the oils – directly to how long it lasts for the individual ferret. For happy, healthy ferrets just looking for health and potential prevention – I will typically apply every 1-3 weeks. With ferrets who are not feeling well – I may apply every 1-7 days. It really will all depend on the ferret, and how they respond or feel.
Cats: Cats can use SugarBalance in place of KittyBoost when desired. Some cats may already be using our KittyBoost product – and you may want to try the SugarBalance for them. When this is the case, I often recommend just using SugarBalance in the same effective methods, doses, and ways that you have already been using the KittyBoost. SugarBalance is especially indicated for cats with stress induced Hyperglycemia or Diabetes, and is helpful for overweight cats as well. If your cat is ill, you will need to have your veterinarian correct the medical issues at hand, prior to expecting essential oils to aid drastically.
Cats can usually use SugarBalance right out of the bottle, in the same methods as described for KittyBoost. However, for those of a more delicate nature – further dilution initially (as described above) is a wise start. If your cat is new to essential oils, follow the instructions on the KittyBoost page regarding application.
Alternating use of SugarBalance, LiverBoost, ThyroBalance or other body supporting “boosters” can be a great way to provide all over system support on a routine basis. For example, one of my cats gets a “boost” weekly. One week I may use SugarBalance, the following week I use ThyroBalance, and then the next week I might select CardioBoost. Each time, I am supporting a body system just a little bit more specifically – good insurance for the future in my eyes. However, for one of my cats who is a breed prone to developing hypertrophic cardiomyopathy – I may select CardioBoost more often or as my main selection. SugarBalance could be used without rotation to other formulas for animals with mainly sugar handling in mind.
Dogs: Many dogs can benefit from additional support – even if they are clinically “normal” – an occasional SugarBalance is a great idea.
For general maintenance, dogs can have an occasional application of SugarBalance for added support of maintaining healthy blood sugar processing. This application can be inserted into an AromaBoost application – generally between the #3 and #4 application – although any spot is technically okay. Use whichever schedule you are using for your AromaBoost applications – and apply the same amount of drops as you would with formulas 1-5.
You can also apply SugarBalance as a separate application unto itself – if desired. In general, 3-5 drops are applied to small dogs, around 10 pounds (4.5 kgs) and under. However, for dogs who are new to oils, or may be more sensitive – diluting your first few applications can make applications easier on your dog.
Basically, you can just drip the oils up the back and massage in, or you may apply the drops to your hands and then apply them to your dog in a Petting manner. For larger dogs – you can usually apply more drops. For medium dogs between 25-50 pounds applying 5-8 drops is average. And for large dogs over 50 pounds – a range of 6-12 drops can be used. For dogs new to essential oils – starting with even less than the recommended amounts, or with further diluted oils can be a good way to ensure you do not create an oil aversion. You may not see results with lesser amounts, or with further diluted oils sometimes, but since we are also wanting to create a “happy” situation with oil use for your dog, and not overwhelm them – the added time to slowly build up concentrations of essential oil use can be worth it.
For dogs who have been diagnosed with Diabetes – it is important that you work with your veterinarian, and monitor your dog closely with their aid. Never neglect the use of veterinary diagnostics and traditional treatments when they are indicated, and make sure to tell your vet that you are using natural substances that help support their return to full health. As you start to improve their overall health, you may find that an animal on insulin, may require less. Work with your veterinarian to determine if this change is necessary.
For my own dogs – I often rotate through several of the body specific support blends, each time I perform their “routine maintenance”. So, if my dogs get a monthly AromaBoost RTU applied – I might insert SugarBalance one month, then CardioBoost another month, and so on. However, for my patients who do have Diabetes or other digestive or sugar handling issues, I will strive to support them much more often, and regularly. In some cases, daily applications of SugarBalance can be considered – but I find that every 3-7 days is average for most dogs needing additional blood sugar handling support.
For Horses, Cows, Goats, and other large animals: SugarBalance can also be used just as it would for dogs. Drops are placed approximately 3 inches apart up the spine, then rubbed in. Most large animals will have between 6-12 drops applied. If you suspect that your animal may be particularly sensitive to oil applications, start out applying only 5-8 drops along their back. You can always apply more later, but you cannot “take it away.” That is one of the most important concepts to understand with use of aromatherapy in animals. Start with really light applications, you may just be surprised at how effective they are, and will not need to waste additional oils by applying more than is needed!
Just as for dogs (please do read all animal descriptions – even for birds – they are extremely educational!) – SugarBalance can be used alone, or as an insertion into an AromaBoost RTU application. Routine maintenance and thyroid support can be provided through weekly to monthly applications – and in more severe cases of need – you may find that applications every 1-7 days may be more beneficial. It is important to monitor your animal, and work with your veterinarian to evaluate symptoms and determine if your support is changing things for the better, or if you may need want to try larger amounts or more frequent applications.
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