Most Popular Drawing Salves & Anti-Inflammatories at Corro
These are the barn-favorite go-tos our riders and customers keep reaching for:
- Absorbine Veterinary Liniment Gel → Riders love this gel for loosening up stiff joints and sore muscles before rides. The easy squeeze-on formula makes it simple to target problem spots, offering fast relief that helps horses move comfortably.
- Absorbine Veterinary Liniment Liquid → This classic liquid horse liniment is a rider routine staple. It cools and soothes sore muscles after tough workouts or show days, and many riders even use it themselves for relief.
These trusted Absorbine favorites cover pre-ride stiffness and post-workout soreness, giving horses all-around support for comfort and recovery.
What Causes Inflammation & Soreness in Horses?
Inflammation in horses often stems from strenuous exercise, joint stress, or minor injuries, which can lead to stiffness, swelling, and discomfort. Managing equine inflammation properly is key for recovery and long-term soundness.
Corro Team Rider Hunter Holloway, a top Show Jumper, knows firsthand how repeated impact from big fences can stress joints and soft tissue.
Josh Tishman, competing in Reining, adds that quick spins and sliding stops also put unique pressure on muscles and tendons. Their experiences shape how Corro curates recovery essentials for every discipline.
How Drawing Salves & Anti-Inflammatories Can Help
A controlled trial in Translational Animal Science (2020) showed that horses fed an oral joint supplement containing glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid, and MSM exhibited increased hock range of motion at walk, suggesting functional anti-inflammatory or joint-modulating effects (Much et al.).
Another equine study using experimentally induced osteoarthritis found that treatment with glucosamine plus chondroitin sulfate reduced synovial prostaglandin E₂ and improved lameness scores compared to untreated controls (Yamada et al., 2022).
In practice, drawing salves can ease swelling at the surface by encouraging circulation and fluid release, while horse joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin work over time to lessen inflammation and help protect cartilage.
How to Choose the Products
The right liniment or salve depends on your horse’s workload, age, and recovery needs. Consider whether your horse needs targeted relief before a ride, broader post-workout support, or a mild daily aid for general stiffness. Always match the product to your horse’s training environment and recovery style. From seasoned competitors to everyday partners, choosing correctly ensures comfort and consistent performance.
- Performance horses → Fast-acting gels for targeted soreness
- Senior horses → Gentle salves for daily comfort
- Everyday partners → Versatile liquids for pre- and post-ride care
Rider Tips
“I choose quick-absorbing gels to keep my horses fresh during intense show schedules, where recovery windows are short.”
Ashlee Bond, International Show Jumping
“I rely on trusted liniments for my horses’ daily leg care, helping maintain mobility and comfort through long training sessions.”
Nick Haness, Hunter/Jumper
“In my cross-discipline program, I use multi-purpose salves for both preventative care and post-workout relief.”
Megan Kepferle, 3-Day Eventing & Dressage
FAQ
What are drawing salves and how do they work?
Drawing salves for horses are topical treatments that help reduce swelling, inflammation, and soreness by drawing out heat and increasing circulation.
Can I use liniments on both muscles and joints?
Yes. Gels and liquids are designed for flexible use, soothing sore muscles and supporting joint mobility.
Are these products safe for competition horses?
Most liniments meet USEF and FEI guidelines, but always check ingredients against current rules.
How often should I apply a liniment or salve?
Most can be applied before or after exercise. Follow label directions for frequency to avoid overuse.
What ingredients should I look for in these products?
Menthol, herbal extracts, and natural oils are common for cooling and soothing; some formulas include anti-inflammatory agents.
Can riders also use these products?
Yes. Many liquid liniments are labeled for both horses and humans, making them a versatile barn staple.
