Yucca

The Yucca Schidigera plant reduces the faecal odour by tying ammonia and faecal volatile compounds. Ammonia is a toxic chemical by-product of the normal metabolism. Yucca has the ability to bind these to the metabolism -of micro-organisms, including the countless bacteria and microbes that house in the bowel. The plant is more often added to dog food to help neutralise the odour of stool and flatulence. Hydrogen sulphide, a kind of sulphuric gas, is guilty of the unpleasant odours in the flatulence of dogs. This rotting gas does not occur naturally in our air and creates an unpleasant smell experience. Yucca helps to cleanse the intestines, not only superficially but also around the intestinal flakes. Finally, the Yucca root promotes a good intestinal flora by binding toxins in the intestines, so that it is less likely to be absorbed into the blood and cause damage. 

The Yucca or palm lily contains a number of biologically active substances such as saponins and polyphenols. The natural saponins improve intestinal health, while polyphenols support the health of the joints. Many of the medicinal effects of the plant are attributed to the saponins. As such they bind cholesterol with bile in order to facilitate the export from the body, and they work blood pressure lowering. It has also been shown that these substances have antibacterial properties and can support intestinal health by regulating excessive bacterial growth. The polyphenols contain antioxidants that help prevent damage to the tissue by free radicals. The Indians used this plant for centuries as a medicine against rheumatism and arthritis. It therefore grows abundantly in the deserts of Southwest America and Northern Mexico. The root would slow down the pain and inflammation of the joints. 

Yucca reduces the production of flatulence and the odour of the stool, which is also fine for the owner. But if your dog suffers from excessive flatulence it is better to first look at the underlying cause with your vet. Illnesses can be the cause, but also certain behaviours such as gobbling and fast eating or too little physical activity for example.