Endurance - orange paint on legs for recovery?

[GirlFriday]

Curious as to what the orange substance painted on the legs of the endurance horses after the Windsor events was... Any endurance types/other knowledgeable people know what it is/does?

Can't find it using google but 'orange recovery paint' is obviously not the best description!

 

[Steerpike]

It is henna, it is not used for recovery, it is used to prevent the horses getting cracked/sore heels before the ride as it's quite sandy going and lots of water is used to cool the horses down.

 

[GirlFriday]

Oh, interesting. Thanks for the info. That kind of makes sense although I'm surprised they use that over something more like a modern barrier cream (from personal experience I'd say nappy cream is more protective than a henna tattoo! Although sweatier, and probably less durable...)

A quick google does show ppl using it for mud fever too - interesting, learn somethgin new and all that - thank you!

 

[Honey08]

Thanks for that. We we're wondering too.

 

[Steerpike]

It's easier to apply than creams as it tends to be put on a few days before a ride and lasts longer than barrier creams.