| Term | Boxwood |
| Category | Herbs |
| Definition | Boxwood is an evergreen shrub often found as a garden and hedge plant. Boxwood is highly toxic to horses and must not be fed to them. |
| Effects & Risks | Boxwood contains toxic alkaloids, in particular buxine. These can impair the digestive, nervous, and cardiovascular systems. Even relatively small amounts can be dangerous for horses. |
| Usage | Boxwood has no place in horse feeding. Plants should be kept out of the reach of horses. Garden waste or cut branches must also never end up in horse pastures or paddocks. |
| Fresh or dried? | Boxwood is toxic both fresh and dried. Drying or wilting does not make the plant a safe feed. |
| Important to know | Possible signs of poisoning include symptoms of colic, diarrhea, tremors, cramps, loss of coordination, as well as changes in heart rate and breathing. Severe poisoning can be life-threatening. If ingestion is suspected, a veterinarian should be contacted immediately. |
| Related terms | Poisonous plants · Poisoning · Pasture control · Alkaloids · Bracken |
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