Equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) is characterized by: obesity, or regional adiposity (the accumulation of fat in certain parts of the body, usually the neck), insulin resistance (IR), ad laminitis in horses and ponies. EMS is thought to be genetic with certain breeds of horses more predisposed than others. These horses are referred to as “easy keepers” because they are efficient at using calories and require less dietary maintenance than other horses to maintain their body weight. Breeds that have evolved to live in harsh conditions, such as Morgans, Peruvian Pasos, Paso Fino, Spanish Mustang, and warm bloods, are particularly susceptible. Typical cases of EMS are diagnosed in horses between the ages of eight and eighteen. A hypothesis for the onset of obesity in horses is the production of cortisol by fat cells, interfering with the function of insulin. Equine metabolic syndrome symptoms include a crest of fat on the neck, …

Metabolic syndrome treatment mostly involves diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes. Sometimes these are not enough, so drugs may be given to control cholesterol levels, lipids, high blood pressure, and other conditions commonly connected to metabolic syndrome. According to Medicinenet.com, one class of blood pressure drugs, called ACE inhibitors, have been know to reduce insulin resistance to the point that they deter the development of type-2 diabetes.

Metabolic Syndrome Natural Treatment

Chinese herbs are starting to be seen as a potential treatment for metabolic syndrome, even by the medical community. Three herbs which have been suggested by the National Institute of Health are ginseng, rhizome coptidis, and bitter melon. Ginseng extracts have been proven effective for anti-hyperglycemia, insulin sensitization, islet protection, anti-obesity, and anti-oxidation. Energy expenditure has also been known to increase because of ginseng.

Rhizoma is helpful in the treatment of metabolic syndrome because it has anti-obesity and …