Vitamin C

Can horses really produce their own Vitamin C?

The truth about Vitamin C

Did you know your horse can actually produce their own Vitamin C? 🐴💡 Unlike humans, horses synthesize Vitamin C in their liver from glucose. This usually provides enough to meet their daily needs, which is why it’s not considered an “essential” nutrient in their diet.

🌱 Plants & Herbs (rich in Vitamin C) 🍊

• Rosehips – one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C, often fed dried or powdered.
• Hawthorn berries & leaves – contain vitamin C plus heart-support.
• Nettle (dried or fresh) – nutrient dense, high in vitamin C and iron.
• Parsley – strong vitamin C herb, though used in moderation.
• Dandelion leaves – provide vitamin C along with potassium.


🌾 Forages & Feeds
• Fresh pasture (grasses & legumes) – lush green grass is a natural source of vitamin C (levels drop significantly when grass is dried into hay).
• Fresh forage herbs (herbal leys, mixed paddocks) – provide a variety of antioxidants including vitamin C.
• Carrots & other root vegetables – modest vitamin C content.
• Apples & other fruits – contain small amounts of vitamin C.
• Commercial feeds – some are fortified with synthetic vitamin C, especially those marketed for senior horses or horses under stress.


✅ Key note:
• Fresh green plants = highest vitamin C.
• Hay, chaff, and dried forages = very low vitamin C (it degrades quickly once cut).
• Horses that may benefit from supplementation: seniors, those under heavy oxidative stress (hard work, illness, transport), or with liver issues.