Choosing a medicinal herb blend for your bird

Several very important factors in the development of a quality avian medicinal herb product are the harvesting, selection, and storage of the herbs themselves. Equally important, are the qualifications of those manufacturing the product. HAS THIS HERB PRODUCT BEEN THOROUGHLY TESTED AND HOW LONG HAS IT BEEN ON THE MARKET? The following considerations will help you in choosing an original and safe product.

1. The avian medicinal herbal blend that you choose should consist of only 100% organic herbs that are intended for human consumption (meaning you're not feeding your bird herbs used for purposes such as perfume, potpourri, ornamental display, etc.). Non-organic herbs are exposed to fertilizers and pesticides and these toxins are extremely hazardous to your bird's health. Look for a product that is organically certified.
2. The importance of proper ratios in a medicinal herb blend must not be overlooked. Only someone educated and experienced in avian self-medication should attempt to produce a medicinal herb blend for birds.
3. The herb mix should consist of primarily cut or whole herbs. It is harder for your bird to control the intake of powdered herbs, making it more difficult when trying to choose a particular herb. Even the smallest finch will extract nutrients from a twig or leaf.Combined herbs should work in synergy with each other.
4. Individual herbs' healing powers can be enhanced, or depleted, when combined with other herbs and medications. Know that the product contains herbs that interact well together.
5. The avian medicinal herb mix you are paying for should consist of medicinal herbs rather than those better intended for dietary supplementing. Herbs such as parsley, oregano, alfalfa, etc. can be good dietary enhancements, but not necessarily herbs best suited for enabling your bird to self-medicate. Research the facility where the product is manufactured, stored and packaged.
6. A hygienic, moisture-free and climate controlled environment is highly important in keeping the freshness of herbs. A qualified manufacturer will at no time risk that their product is exposed to any unsanitary conditions, including insuring that it never comes in contact with other birds or wildlife of any kind. Packaging should meet FDA specifications for food packaging. Your purchase should be sealed to insure that it is clean and tamper-free. Look for product consistency with each purchase.

By following these guidelines, you can avoid purchasing an imitation or copycat product that may prove to be harmful to your bird. Be confident that the avian medicinal herb blend you have chosen to feed your bird has been developed and manufactured by those qualified in the field of avian herbal remedies and animal self-medication.