Herbs vs. Essential Oils for Dogs: How They Differ & How to Use Them Safely

Written By Dana Brigman

Herbs and essential oils might come from the same plant—but they work very differently inside your dog’s body. Knowing when to use an herb versus an essential oil can help you make safer, more effective decisions when supporting your dog’s wellness naturally.

Whether you're trying to soothe anxious behavior, support digestion, detox the liver, or simply enhance your dog’s quality of life… understanding the difference between herbal and aromatic remedies is essential.

What Are the Key Differences Between Herbs and Essential Oils?

Let’s start with the obvious question: if herbs and oils come from the same plants… why are they used so differently?

Here’s why:

  • Herbs are made from the entire plant or parts of the plant (leaf, flower, root, seed, or bark). They contain nutrients, minerals, fiber, and a wide array of naturally occurring medicinal compounds.

  • Essential oils are concentrated extracts from the aromatic part of the plant. These oils carry only the volatile compounds and are extremely potent—even a single drop has a strong physiological effect.

In short: herbs nourish, while essential oils trigger.

Herbs: Gentle, Nutritional, and Long-Term Support

Herbs for dogs are often used as daily support tools or longer-term therapies. They may be:

  • Added to food (powdered or whole)

  • Brewed into a tea (infusion or decoction)

  • Used topically (as part of a poultice or compress)

  • Delivered in glycerin or alcohol-based tinctures

Examples:

  • Dandelion: Liver support and gentle detox

  • Chamomile: Digestive and nervous system calming

  • Ginger: Circulatory and anti-nausea properties

Essential Oils: Fast-Acting, Potent, and Energetic

Essential oils for dogs should always be used with caution and guidance. They're best for short-term or targeted use and can be:

  • Diffused in a well-ventilated space

  • Diluted and applied topically to specific points (like the paws or ears)

  • Occasionally used internally—but only with professional support and high-quality, dog-safe oils

Examples:

  • Lavender oil: Relaxation and emotional balance

  • Copaiba: Inflammation and joint support

  • Frankincense: Immune and neurological support

Because essential oils bypass digestion and absorb quickly, they work faster—but can also overstimulate sensitive dogs if not used properly.

When to Use Herbs vs. Essential Oils for Dogs

Goal/ConcernBest ChoiceWhy?Daily wellness supportHerbsNutrients and tonics work gently over timeNervous system calmingEssential OilsRapid action via the limbic systemOrgan detoxHerbsSafer, slower support for liver/kidney pathwaysAcute emotional distressEssential OilsQuick support for sudden stressorsDigestive supportBothCombine gut-support herbs with calming oils

Safety Tips for Both

  • Less is more—especially for puppies, seniors, and small breeds

  • Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before applying to your dog

  • Avoid oils high in phenols or ketones unless advised by a certified practitioner

  • Not all herbs are safe for every dog—some may interfere with medications or health conditions

  • Buy from trusted sources—purity and sourcing matter

Can You Use Both Together?

Yes—herbs and essential oils can work beautifully together, when used correctly. For example, you might use:

  • A milk thistle tincture for liver support

  • A topical essential oil blend (like Copaiba + Lavender) for inflammation and anxiety

  • Calendula as an infused herbal salve, plus Helichrysum essential oil for skin repair

Knowing when to use each tool is key.

Dana's Thoughts

I reach for herbs and oils daily in my practice—sometimes together, but always with intention. Herbs offer steady nourishment and long-term support. Essential oils offer quick, energetic balance.

They’re not interchangeable, but they are complementary. And when used strategically, they can help your dog eat better, feel better, and live longer.

Want to Learn How to Use Herbs and Oils Together Safely?

I teach this in my Remedies Class, and we talk about it often in the Well Fed K9 Facebook group.

🐾 Top 5 Things You Can Do Today:

  • Add nutritive herbs (like dandelion or nettle) to your dog’s food

  • Use a diffuser with diluted, calming oils like Lavender or Roman Chamomile

  • Create a paw balm with infused herbs and safe essential oils

  • Learn your dog’s sensitivity and tolerance—every dog is different

  • Join our forum to dive deeper into natural wellness with confidence

Statements in this blog have not been evaluated by the FDA. Educational content only. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Dana Brigman
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