Hemp seed

Cannabis sativa (seed)

Mechanism

Hemp seed supplies polyunsaturated fatty acids in an omega-3:omega-6 ratio that is favourable by plant comparison (around 1:3) and additionally contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). The protein content is high (approx. 25–35 %) with a well-available amino acid profile. As with plant-based ALA sources, the conversion of alpha-linolenic acid into EPA/DHA is limited in the horse. Direct equine feeding studies are scarcely published; the assessment rests predominantly on nutrient analyses and extrapolation from other species.

Cautions

· FEI/sport: natural cannabinoids (incl. THC) are prohibited — hulled seeds contain only traces, but products vary considerably; before competition run a cannabinoid/withdrawal check and choose a product with a certificate of analysis
· CBD is classified by the FEI as a Controlled Medication (observe withdrawal); THC remains a Banned Substance
· Mind the fat/energy content — feed in slowly, adjust the ration accordingly
· Origin/batch are decisive: only declared feed-grade goods, no unclear raw materials

Sources

FEI EPSL 2026FEI Equine Prohibited Substances List — Cannabinoide (THC banned, CBD controlled)

KER EquinewsKentucky Equine Research — Hemp for Horses (Nährstoffprofil, Studienlage)

EFSA FEEDAPEFSA — Bewertung von Hanfprodukten als Futtermittel (THC-Übergang)

Equiterna Score

56/100

solid

Science4.5/10

Practical experience6/10

Safety6.6/10

Overall score scale

high overall75–100solid55–74limited0–54

How the Equiterna Score is built

The Equiterna Score combines three dimensions into a value of 0-100: science (40%), practical experience (30%) and safety (30%). It is transparently derived from evidence level, attributed sources (PubMed/journals), legal classification and cautions. The FEI doping status is shown separately as a competition-law note and does not enter the score. Commissions and vendor relationships have no influence on the score. In addition, the editorial safety rating caps the result: it limits the safety dimension and the overall tier (orange: at most solid). For entries rated red, no score is calculated at all. The rating never raises anything — a green rating does not lift a calculated value.

An editorial assessment of the evidence and safety situation — not a healing claim and not an individual recommendation. It does not replace veterinary advice.

Dosageapprox. 50–100 g hulled seeds/animal/day (large horse), introduce gradually; prefer a product with a cannabinoid analysis

AMG statusComplementary feed

FEI statusNot listed

SafetyWith caution

Evidenceemerging

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.

“Nothing forced can ever be beautiful.”

Xenophon · On Horsemanship (c. 365 BC)

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.