Plants to Feed Goats to Control Internal Parasites

Goats, like other ruminants, can be prone to worms and other internal parasites. The key to controlling parasites is in the diet. Many plants have natural, deworming properties that aid in parasite control. Some plants can be fed directly, while others can be made into extracts that are added to the goats' feed. Prevention is the best start to controlling parasites.

  1. Garlic

    • Garlic has been known to have deworming properties since the ninth century in Persia. It is still used as an herbal preventative. While it does not prevent the laying of eggs, it prevents the eggs of certain parasites from developing into larvae. Garlic's therapeutic properties come from its high sulfur content. While fresh, minced garlic is most effective, using powdered garlic (added to feed) can be the easiest way to introduce it to your goats' diet.

    Wormwood

    • Wormwood is another excellent dewormer. Many species of wormwood can be used. Use common mugwort against potostrongylus, dictyocaulus and bunostomum. This species is readily eaten by goats and sheep alike. Use common wormwood with caution, as excessive amounts can be dangerous. Steep dried and crushed flowers in cold water to make an extract. Eurasian wormwood produces santonin in its flowers. Again, make an extract from the dried flowers. Santonin is effective against most parasites, except for echinococcus. But use it in small doses, or eye problems can result.

    Other Plants

    • Many plants can be added to your pasture that have deworming properties. Simply add them in and allow the goats to graze. Plants that grow in most of North America with deworming properties include blackberries, raspberries, young ash and elder roots. Additional plants that help fight off internal parasites include yarrow, calamus, agrimony, calendula, blue cohosh, hemp, pokeweed, knotgrass, bloodroot, rue, skullcap, skunk cabbage (also skunk weed), nettle, valarian, periwinkle and verbena.