The Basics

Poultice: Usually a clay-based paste that’s applied thick to legs or hooves. It’s designed to draw out heat and swelling over time—typically under a wrap overnight.

Liniment: A liquid or gel applied directly to the skin. It penetrates quickly to support circulation, reduce soreness, and help muscles bounce back faster.

When to Use a Poultice

• After intense activity where heat builds up in legs
• For hooves with abscesses or bruising
• When wrapping overnight and time is on your side
• If you're dealing with an acute flare-up and want to draw out heat

Note: Poultices can be messy and not ideal for quick-turnaround use.

When to Use a Liniment

• After every ride for consistent recovery and soreness prevention
• On joints, muscles, and tendons that need circulation support
• When time is limited (e.g., during travel, between runs)
• When you want something that works under wraps, boots, or by itself

Bonus: A non-tingling liniment like Draw It Out® Gel or the deep-penetrating MasterMudd™ EquiBrace™ offers serious recovery without side effects.

Can You Use Both?

Absolutely. Many riders apply liniment immediately after a ride, then use poultice overnight if swelling is still present. Just make sure the skin isn’t already irritated and that products are fully absorbed between layers.

Final Thoughts: It's Not Either/Or

Don’t feel pressured to pick one forever. Liniments are your go-to for fast, daily support. Poultices shine when deeper cooling is needed. Real riders use both wisely and consistently—always guided by what the horse is telling them.