Sweet Itch (Summer Eczema)
Allergic skin reaction (hypersensitivity to the saliva of biting midges) with intense itching, mainly at the mane crest and tail base.
Priority · vet & management
The most important lever is insect protection (eczema rug, pasture management) and veterinary support; compounds are adjunctive.
Possible causes
- · allergic hypersensitivity to the saliva of biting midges (Culicoides)
- · insect exposure mainly at dusk and near water
- · genetic predisposition (e.g. robust/Icelandic horses)
- · mane crest and tail base as typical bite regions
- · stress and skin-barrier disorders as cofactors
Supportive compounds · supplementary feed, not medication
Linseed
AMGFEI freeomega-3 for the skin barrier and inflammatory balance
Compound profile →Zinc
AMGFEI freecofactor for skin/keratin metabolism
Compound profile →Spirulina
AMGFEI freediscussed as immune-modulating (allergic component)
Compound profile →Milk thistle
AMGFEI freeliver support with recurrent skin strain
Compound profile →Biotin
AMGFEI freeB-Vitamin für Haut- und Fellstoffwechsel
Compound profile →Prevention
Consistent insect protection with an eczema rug, adapted pasture/stable management during biting times and avoiding damp insect habitats prevent flare-ups.
Equiterna's take
Equiterna links sweet itch to the skin barrier and immune status, but clearly puts insect protection first as the most important lever.
Usage note
This content is for information and education. It does not replace veterinary diagnosis or treatment. If your horse shows signs of illness, consult a veterinarian.
Equiterna is an intermediary platform for equine knowledge, marketplace and tools — not a veterinary-medicines dealer, veterinary practice or pharmacy. Compound information is study-attributed and free of healing claims. Legal framework: Regulation (EU) 2019/6 / TAMG (DE/AT), Feed Regulation (EC) 767/2009, FEI Prohibited Substances List, HWG.