What Really Causes Sweet Itch in Horses? Understanding the root of the problem – and how to protect your horse naturally.

Sweet itch is more than just an annoyance — it's one of the most common and distressing skin conditions horses face, especially during the warmer months. If your horse suffers from seasonal itching, hair loss, or skin sensitivity, understanding the true cause of sweet itch is the first step toward managing it effectively and compassionately.

At Bonela Equine, we believe in tackling the root cause with natural, supportive care — not just masking the symptoms. Let’s take a closer look at what’s really behind sweet itch and how our Fly Away Healing Balm can help.

 The Main Cause: Culicoides Midges

The primary culprit behind sweet itch is the Culicoides midge — tiny biting insects that feed on the blood of horses, usually around dawn and dusk in warm, humid conditions. These midges are nearly invisible, but their impact can be enormous for horses that are sensitive.

When a midge bites, it injects saliva into the skin to prevent blood clotting. In sweet itch-prone horses, the immune system overreacts to this saliva, triggering an allergic reaction that causes:

Not all horses react to midge bites, but those that do can experience worsening symptoms year after year if the condition isn’t carefully managed.

Why Some Horses Are More Affected

Sweet itch is an allergic response, and like most allergies, some horses are genetically predisposed to react more severely. Factors that increase a horse's risk include:

Breed – Native breeds like Icelandic Horses, Shetlands, and Welsh Cobs are often more susceptible.

Environment – Horses living near water, woods, or still, damp areas are more exposed to midges.

Immune sensitivity – A compromised or over-reactive immune system can make symptoms worse.

Barrier health – Damaged or dry skin is more vulnerable to bites and infection.

Natural Protection: Why Fly Away Healing Balm Works

Managing sweet itch starts with understanding the allergy and preventing the bites that cause it. That’s where Bonela Equine’s Fly Away Healing Balm comes in — combining insect repelling power with soothing skin support.

Repels Biting Midges Naturally

Neem oil plus a blend of four powerful essential oils known to repel Culicoides midges create a natural scent barrier that discourages insects from landing or biting.

The beeswax base helps the balm stick to the coat — perfect for the belly line, ears, and tail base where midges strike hardest.

Calms the Immune Response

Aloe vera, calendula, and coconut oil soothe the allergic inflammation and reduce the urge to rub, helping break the itch-scratch cycle.

 Supports Skin Healing

Rich in antibacterial and antifungal oils, the balm helps prevent infection in open or irritated areas, while Vitamin E promotes tissue repair.

Safe for Daily Use

Completely free from petroleum, parabens, and synthetic chemicals, so it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin and long-term use.

Prevention Is Power

Because sweet itch is seasonal and recurring, early intervention is key. Start applying Fly Away Healing Balm twice a day in spring before symptoms begin to protect against bites and reduce the allergic response before it flares up.

Combine with other preventative strategies like:

A Kinder Way to Care

Sweet itch doesn’t have to mean suffering. By understanding its true cause — and choosing natural, effective solutions — you can give your horse the comfort and protection they deserve.

With Bonela Equine’s Fly Away Healing Balm, you’re not just treating the symptoms — you’re helping to prevent them, while supporting your horse’s skin in the most natural way possible.

Heal · Protect · Repel— naturally.