Animals have evolved to cope with potential threats including disease and injury, and as a result have developed dynamic solutions to restore health by self-administering medicinal compounds naturally found in the wild. Zoopharmacognosy refers to the process by which animals self-medicate and naturally forage plants and their essential oils, algae, clay and other natural remedies. This practice allows an animal to use its innate ability to prevent disease. Zoopharmacognosy was Coined by Dr.Eloy Rodriguez a biochemist and professor at Cornell University. The word is derived from the ancient greek zoo "animal", pharma "remedy", and cognosy "cognitive" (thinking).
An animal knows how to heal itself even before symptoms become apparent. Offering appropriate secondary compounds (such as essential oils) for self selection allows the animal to be in control of its health. An innate behaviour vital to their well-being.
Zoopharmacognosy is not a therapy of recent years; it is the oldest therapy known to man that allows an animal to use its innate ability to select the remedies it needs and guide its dosage. It is this innate knowing that is the key to their healing.
