Valley Farmstead: Revolutionizing Animal Health with Saponin Therapy

Organic plant based saponins represent one of the most potent natural remedies currently available. At Valley Farmstead, we have integrated saponins into our farm operations on a scale few others have pursued. We procure high-quality Yucca Schidigera powder by the pallet-load and have gained great understanding of livestock dosing, achieving health results that we could only dream of.

From tragedy to triumph:

Our expertise in saponins began In 2018 when we encountered a severe protozoa outbreak when introducing new breed stock that was infected with Giardia (Coccidiosis). This outbreak nearly destroyed our rabbit herd, and we exhausted all pharmaceutical options intended for protozoa with minimal success. It wasn’t until we sought counsel from an Oregon State University professor that we learned about the formidable ability of natural saponins to eradicate single-cell protozoa. This is a process called lysis. Saponin lysis destroys the protozoan cell membranes resulting in the death of the protozoa.

At the time, we were managing over 2,500 rabbits, and this newfound knowledge was a game-changer that revolutionized our farm and herd management. Yucca is loaded with protozoa-killing saponins that are completely safe for our animals. We have employed it for years on thousands of animals, with a 100% success rate. We add it to feed, apply it safely in water, and even use backpack sprayers to disinfect cages, barns, and livestock directly. The animals can clean themselves and ingest the saponins safely, breaking the protozoa cycle.

With so many rabbits, we were able to test high dosing levels safely, and in severe cases, we administered yucca enemas to eliminate all protozoa in an animal's hind gut. In a brief period, yucca-derived saponins enabled us to eliminate the devastating cycle of Giardia in our herd.

If your pet has experienced Giardia, you understand how costly and potentially fatal this issue can be. That is why we are excited to offer Saponin Bites™, a safe and effective protocol for Giardia support while also promoting whole-body health.

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More benefits than we could have imagined:

Once we eliminated our protozoa issues, we observed a host of additional benefits. Our rabbits exhibited faster growth and increased muscle mass, along with improved appetites. We also saw a 50% improvement in growth time to reach slaughter weight, from 11-12 weeks to just 8-9 weeks. Moreover, we experienced larger litter sizes and a marked decrease in young kit mortality, contributing to an overall improved attitude among our herd. As a result, our farms livestock - which also included 1000's of rabbits, 600+ egg layers, annual meat chickens, 2 bison herds, and our beef steers - have become happy and healthy. We do not rely on any hormones, antibiotics, or pharmaceuticals on our farm - as they are entirely unnecessary.

It's worth mentioning that we bolstered our saponin therapy with micro-encapsulated vitamin C, another powerful antioxidant that effectively reduces oxidative stress within cells, thus preventing disease. The combination of saponins and vitamin C proved to be one of the most effective therapies available. Even with the high cost of incorporating yucca and micro-encapsulated vitamin C into our on-farm animal feed production, it is still more cost-effective than other farms that use low-grade conventional feeds.  

Our experience and journey are truly unique. Our tragedy ultimately led to a significant triumph, and our extensive experience with saponins has provided us with invaluable insights that have elevated us to a league of our own when it comes to understanding how to incorporate the power of saponins and micro-encapsulated technologies into animal health.

As pet owners ourselves, we understand the importance of providing high-quality and effective supplements to our furry companions. That's why we are excited to offer Saponin Bites™, a hand-made, single-farm product that we produce from start to finish. Our supplement contains pure rabbit protein, along with yucca and micro-encapsulated vitamin C.

By delivering these powerful ingredients directly to your door, we are providing pet owners with a supplement that is unmatched in purity and potency.

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What exactly are plant based saponins and the benefits?

Saponins are a class of naturally occurring compounds that are found in a variety of plants, one of the highest raw saponin content is found in the Yucca Schidigera plant. These compounds are composed of a steroid nucleus, typically either a spirostane or furostane, and one or more sugar molecules attached to the steroid backbone. They are widely known for their ability to foam when mixed with water, which has led to their use in a variety of industrial applications, including as a natural surfactant (foaming agent) and emulsifier. In addition to their commercial uses, saponins have also been found to have a range of biological activities, including antifungal, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects, making them of interest to the pharmaceutical industry.

The benefits of using the power of saponins and micro-encapsulated vitamin-C include, but are not limited to:

Anti-inflammatory & joint health properties:

Saponins are natural compounds that possess anti-inflammatory properties. These properties make them an effective choice for reducing inflammation and pain in the body, particularly for joint-related conditions. Saponins can inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines, improving mobility and overall joint health. Additionally, they promote the growth and regeneration of bone tissue and contain antioxidants that protect the body against oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. Saponins are a promising natural remedy for improving joint health and reducing inflammation.

Anti-protozoa properties (Giardia): 

Saponins are known for their anti-protozoa properties. Protozoa are single-celled microorganisms that can cause various diseases and infections. Research has shown that saponins can effectively inhibit the growth and reproduction of protozoa, making them a potential natural treatment option for protozoal infections. These compounds can also help to boost the immune system and prevent the spread of protozoa throughout the body.

Antioxidant effects:

Saponins have potent antioxidant properties, which can help to protect the body against damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage and lead to a range of diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. Saponins act as scavengers, neutralizing free radicals and preventing them from causing harm. They can also help to promote healthy aging and prevent the development of age-related diseases. The antioxidant properties of saponins make them a valuable natural supplement for promoting overall health and well-being.

Cholesterol-lowering effects:

Saponins have cholesterol-lowering properties, making them a natural treatment option for those with high cholesterol levels. These compounds work by inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines and promoting its excretion from the body. Additionally, saponins can help to reduce inflammation, which is a major contributor to the development of high cholesterol levels. By promoting healthy cholesterol levels, saponins can help to prevent heart disease and other related conditions. Overall, saponins hold great promise as a natural supplement for promoting heart health and reducing the risk of heart disease.

Immune boosting function:

Saponins have immune-boosting properties, making them a potential natural treatment for immune system disorders. These compounds work by stimulating the production of white blood cells, which play a critical role in the body's immune response. Additionally, saponins can help to reduce inflammation, which can contribute to immune system dysfunction. By promoting a healthy immune system, saponins can help to prevent a range of diseases and illnesses.

Anti-cancer and tumor effects:

Saponins show promise in their potential anti-cancer and tumor properties. Research has indicated that these compounds can inhibit the growth and spread of cancer cells, including breast, prostate, and lung cancers. Additionally, saponins have been found to induce apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in cancer cells. This makes them a potential natural treatment option for cancer patients, either alone or in combination with traditional therapies.

Improved digestive health:

Saponins have potential benefits for digestive health. These compounds can help to stimulate the production of digestive enzymes and promote healthy gut flora, improving the overall function of the digestive system. Additionally, saponins can help to reduce inflammation in the gut, which can lead to a range of digestive issues. By promoting healthy digestion, saponins can help to prevent digestive disorders and improve nutrient absorption.

Promoting wound healing:

Saponins have benefits for promoting wound healing. These compounds can help to stimulate the production of collagen, a protein that is critical for wound healing. Additionally, saponins can help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy blood flow, which can improve the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the wound site. By promoting healthy wound healing, saponins can help to prevent infections and reduce scarring.

Reducing fecal odors:

Saponins reduce fecal odors in animals. These compounds can help to break down the sulfur-containing compounds responsible for the unpleasant odor of animal feces. Additionally, saponins can help to reduce the amount of ammonia in the feces, which can further contribute to the odor. By reducing fecal odors, saponins can improve the overall air quality and hygiene in animal environments.

Skin and coat health:

Saponins benefit skin and coat health in animals. These compounds can help to improve skin hydration and elasticity, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Additionally, saponins have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe irritated skin and reduce redness and inflammation. These properties can also promote a healthy and shiny coat, improving the overall appearance and health of the animal. Saponins are a promising natural supplement for promoting skin and coat health in animals, and more research is needed to fully understand their potential benefits.

Cardiovascular benefits:

Saponins have been found to have potential benefits for cardiovascular health. These compounds can help to reduce the risk of heart disease by promoting healthy blood flow and reducing inflammation in the cardiovascular system. Additionally, saponins can help to reduce cholesterol levels, which can contribute to the development of heart disease. By promoting healthy cardiovascular function, saponins can help to prevent a range of cardiovascular diseases and improve overall heart health.

Reducing blood sugar:

Saponins have blood sugar-lowering properties, making them a natural treatment option for those with diabetes or high blood sugar levels. These compounds work by stimulating the production of insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. Additionally, saponins can help to increase glucose uptake in cells, reducing the amount of sugar in the bloodstream. By promoting healthy blood sugar levels, saponins can help to prevent the development of diabetes and related complications. Overall, saponins hold great promise as a natural supplement for promoting metabolic health and managing blood sugar levels.

Cognitive and memory function:

Saponins have been found to improve cognitive function and memory. Saponins have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help to protect brain cells from damage and reduce inflammation in the brain. This may result in improved memory retention, learning, and focus. Additionally, saponins may help to prevent cognitive decline associated with aging or neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. While more research is needed, the potential cognitive benefits of saponins make them a promising natural supplement for supporting brain health.

Vitamin c and micro-encapsulation:

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that plays a crucial role in several biological processes, including collagen synthesis, immune function, and wound healing. It can also help protect against chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer, by neutralizing free radicals that damage cells. However, traditional delivery methods of vitamin C can result in low bioavailability and instability, leading to less effective results. Micro-encapsulation, a technique that involves encasing the vitamin C in a protective coating, can help increase its stability and absorption in the body , resulting in better delivery and effectiveness of the vitamin. This makes micro-encapsulated vitamin C a promising option for improving overall health and preventing disease.