Steady & Stable Supplement

Barberry (Berberis vulgaris) is valued for berberine, a plant alkaloid widely studied for its effects on metabolic pathways involved in glucose and lipid regulation. In experimental and clinical research, berberine has been shown to influence cellular energy metabolism, including activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a key regulator of glucose and fat metabolism.

Because metabolic balance plays an important role in weight regulation and dietary responses, ingredients containing berberine are often included in nutritional strategies aimed at supporting metabolic resilience. Research has shown that berberine can influence glucose handling and insulin signaling, mechanisms that are relevant in animals prone to metabolic imbalance.

By supporting metabolic pathways linked to energy use and glucose regulation, barberry-derived compounds are increasingly explored as supportive nutritional ingredients in metabolic health programs (Kong et al., 2004; Pirillo & Catapano, 2015; Imenshahidi & Hosseinzadeh, 2016).

Horsetail is naturally rich in silica, which is why it is traditionally used to support connective tissue such asligaments,hooves, skin, andcoat. Springer Nature Link

Chlorella is a nutrient-dense freshwater microalgae often described as a “superfood” because it packs a lot of nutrition into a small serving. It naturally provides high-quality protein, a wide range of vitamins and minerals, and antioxidant pigments such as chlorophyll and carotenoids that support overall vitality. Chlorella is also valued for gentle daily support of digestion and normal detox pathways by helping bind certain compounds in the gut and promoting a balanced intestinal environment. Frontiers

Liquorice root contains glycyrrhizin, a bioactive compound known to influence cortisol metabolism by inhibiting the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2). By slowing the conversion of cortisol into inactive cortisone, glycyrrhizin can help maintain normal cortisol availability in the body, which plays a role in metabolic regulation and stress responses.

Cortisol signaling is closely connected with the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, a key hormonal system involved in energy metabolism, stress adaptation, and endocrine balance. Research also suggests that liquorice-derived compounds can interact with neuroendocrine pathways linked to neurotransmitters such as dopamine.

Because hormonal balance and metabolic signaling are closely linked, botanicals such as liquorice are sometimes included in nutritional strategies aimed at supporting metabolic resilience in animals prone to weight gain or dietary sensitivity. Asl & Hosseinzadeh, 2008; Armanini et al., 2002

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is a botanical valued in equine nutrition for its antioxidant properties and its role in supporting liver function. Its active compounds, collectively known as silymarin, help protect cells against oxidative stress and contribute to maintaining normal metabolic processes.

In horses, research shows that supplementation with milk thistle-derived ingredients can support recovery after exercise. Horses receiving milk thistle showed a faster return of cortisol levels to baseline following physical exertion, indicating support for normal physiological recovery.

In vitro studies using equine cells demonstrate that compounds from milk thistle can modulate oxidative activity in immune cells, supporting normal inflammatory balance. Additional laboratory research on hoof tissue suggests that milk thistle extract may help protect structural integrity under certain stress conditions, indicating a supportive role in maintaining hoof health.

Overall, milk thistle is associated with supporting liver function, metabolic balance, and general resilience in horses, particularly in animals exposed to physical demands or dietary challenges (Tedesco & Guerrini, 2023; Loguercio & Festi, 2011; Hackett et al., 2012).

Rice bran is the nutrient-rich outer layer of the rice grain (Oryza sativa) that remains after milling. It is valued in equine nutrition for its high energy density, as it naturally contains beneficial fats, fiber, and bioactive compounds. These nutrients provide a concentrated energy source that can help support body condition and performance in horses with higher energy demands.

The fat content of rice bran supplies calories without relying heavily on starch, which can be beneficial in feeding strategies aimed at supporting steady energy availability during training and work. In addition to energy, rice bran also contains natural antioxidants such as gamma-oryzanol and vitamin E, compounds that have been studied for their role in supporting muscle metabolism and recovery after exercise (ScienceDirect, Ryan, E.P., 2011).

Because of its combination of digestible energy, antioxidants, and nutrients, rice bran is commonly included in equine diets designed to support muscle condition, weight maintenance, and overall performance in sport horses and animals with increased metabolic demands.

MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is an organic sulfur compound that plays an important role in several physiological processes in the body. Sulfur is a key building block of amino acids and structural proteins such as keratin and collagen, which contribute to the strength and integrity of connective tissues including hooves, joints, skin, and tendons.

Through this structural role, MSM supports tissue quality and resilience, which is relevant for maintaining strong hooves and healthy joints, especially in horses exposed to physical stress or metabolic challenges.

In addition, sulfur is involved in metabolic pathways linked to the body’s antioxidant systems. These pathways support the processing of metabolic by-products and contribute to maintaining normal cellular balance. This makes MSM relevant in nutritional strategies aimed at supporting liver function, digestion, and overall metabolic stability.

Because of its dual role in both structural support and metabolic processes, MSM contributes to maintaining connective tissue health, digestive balance, and overall physiological resilience (Jiao et al., 2025; Marañón et al., 2008; Kalman, 2012).

Maritime pine bark extract (Pinus pinaster) is a botanical ingredient rich in polyphenols, particularly procyanidins. These compounds are known for their antioxidant properties and their role in supporting vascular function.

Healthy blood circulation is important for supplying nutrients and oxygen to tissues throughout the body, including the hooves. Supporting vascular function contributes to maintaining normal tissue health and physiological balance.

In addition, antioxidants help protect cells from oxidative stress, which can occur during metabolic challenges or environmental stressors. Because of these properties, maritime pine extract is often included in equine formulations aimed at supporting circulation and overall tissue health (Verhelst, 2025).

L-arginine is a functional amino acid involved in several important metabolic pathways. One of its key roles is serving as a precursor for nitric oxide, a signaling molecule that helps regulate blood flow and vascular function.

Healthy circulation supports the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues with high renewal needs, such as the skin and hoof. This makes arginine relevant for dogs in formulas aimed at maintaining healthy skin, and for horses where hoof quality and metabolic balance are important.

Nitric oxide is also involved in normal skin physiology, including barrier function, immune signaling, and tissue renewal. Through its role in nitric oxide production, arginine contributes to overall tissue resilience and physiological balance (E Seifter, 1978; Siani, 2013).