I received an e-mail last week asking about the benefits of Myrtle (Myrtus communis) for dogs.  The writer was considering Natural Defense  dog treats (or ‘oral health snacks’, as they call them), which contain this herb for its dental benefits.  I decided to post my reply on the All Natural Pet Care blog in the event that other pet parents are researching this product, or are curious about the potential of Myrtle for their own recipes.

There is very little information available regarding the benefits of Myrtle leaves as it applies to dogs, and what is available is associated with the brand in question.  Due to lack of scientific study in animal herbal medicine, however, this isn’t an unusual occurrence.  The clinical use of Myrtle for humans usually includes treatment for bronchitis and bladder issues, but it really isn’t often used for them either.

Myrtle does offer the antibacterial properties claimed by Natural Defense to prevent plaque, along with astringent properties that may tighten gum tissue.  Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) is more commonly recommended and has been associated with improved dental health, which makes me wonder if it wasn’t a matter of someone confusing the two herbs to begin with.

There are many herbs that I may have chosen before Myrtle for this function (you’ll find some of them in our Holistic Toothpaste Recipe for Dogs).  However, at this point there is no indication of any danger to pets with occasional use of Myrtus communis that I’m aware of.  The active components in herbs are often heat-sensitive, so there may not be much of them left in pet food after processing anyway. Eaten fresh, the plant has been classed as having poisonous parts (volatile oils) so I suggest it be avoided in homemade pet food.

I am impressed that pet food companies are trying to improve formulations through more natural alternatives and I hope this continues.  It would be a good idea for these companies to provide independent studies and also base ingredients on more mainstream herbs.  There are no points for originality in herbal formulations.  Pet parents are aware that ‘natural’ or ‘herbal’ doesn’t necessarily mean ‘safe’ or ‘effective’, so it’s crucial that claims are backed by solid facts.

??? Has anyone been feeding Natural Defense Oral Health Snacks to dogs?  We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.