Gold Standard Herbs
If you're familiar with Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), you already know the power of Chinese herbal formulas when used appropriately. But not all brands take the time or care to get the details right — that's what sets Gold Standard Herbs apart.
Created by Dr. Steve Marsden — a highly respected integrative veterinarian and educator — Gold Standard Herbs was founded on the belief that herbal medicine should be effective, evidence-based, and accessible to pet parents and practitioners alike.
Why I Recommend Gold Standard Herbs
There are a handful of herb brands I trust, and Gold Standard Herbs consistently earns a spot at the top of the list. Here's why:
Rooted in TCVM Philosophy — These formulas are based on thousands of years of Chinese herbal knowledge, adapted for modern-day use in dogs, cats, and even horses.
Formulated by a Veterinarian — Dr. Steve Marsden is one of the few veterinarians globally who holds certifications in TCVM, Western herbalism, and acupuncture. He designs these formulas with precision and a deep understanding of energetics, patterns, and organ systems.
Whole Herbs, No Isolates — They use whole herb powders — never extracts or isolated compounds — so the energetics and synergies of the herbs remain intact.
Third-Party Tested — Each batch is tested for purity, potency, and safety — including heavy metals, pesticides, and contaminants.
Focused Formulas — These aren't generalized blends. Each product is crafted to match a very specific TCVM pattern, which means they work when matched correctly.
Key Formulas in the Gold Standard Herbs Lineup
Voltrex
Purpose: Supports healing of ligaments and spinal cord inflammation.
Use Case: Ideal for dogs recovering from injuries or surgeries affecting the spine or joints.
Administration: Mix the powdered extract into your dog's food or dissolve in broth. Dosage varies by weight; consult the product label for specifics.
Halscion
Purpose: An adaptogen that supports calmness and normal cognition.
Use Case: Beneficial for dogs experiencing stress-related behaviors or cognitive decline.
Administration: Administer twice daily, mixed with food or a suitable treat. Dosage should be adjusted based on the dog's weight.
Cessorex
Purpose: Supports normal immune function and skin circulation.
Use Case: Suitable for dogs with skin sensitivities or immune system challenges.
Administration: Incorporate into the dog's diet as directed, ensuring consistent daily intake.
Lumbrex
Purpose: Supports normal circulation to relieve back, neck, and hind leg stiffness, weakness, numbness, and spasm.
Use Case: Designed for dogs exhibiting mobility issues or discomfort in the spine and hindquarters.
Administration: Mix with the dog's regular meals, adhering to the recommended dosage guidelines.
DM Formula
Purpose: Supports dogs with degenerative myelopathy.
Use Case: Tailored for dogs diagnosed with or showing signs of degenerative myelopathy.
Administration: Administer as per the dosing instructions, typically mixed with food for ease of consumption.
Adoptrex
Purpose: Supports normal gut and pancreatic function.
Use Case: Ideal for dogs with digestive concerns or pancreatic support needs.
Administration: Integrate into the dog's feeding routine, following the dosage recommendations provided.
How to Use Gold Standard Herbs in a Wellness Plan
If we’ve determined that a TCVM herbal is a good fit for your dog’s needs:
Herbs are generally given twice daily, mixed into food or a treat ball.
Powders can be blended into bone broth, pumpkin, or raw goat milk for easy delivery.
Always store them in a cool, dry place to maintain potency.
I may recommend pulsing them (on/off cycles), combining them with other herbs or oils, or using them seasonally depending on your dog’s presentation.
Some dogs respond quickly — within a few days — while others may need several weeks to show full benefit. That’s especially true for constitutional imbalances, where we’re working on deeper root-cause healing.