Conventional medicine – for both pets and people – customarily chooses a pharmaceutical solution. That pharmaceutical response is often targeted at suppressing a symptom and less often targeted at curing the problem that created the symptom.

Drugs are generally fast acting, in part because they’re strong. They also come with side effects.

Herbs on the other hand, tend to be more slower acting and more gentle. They aren’t completely without risk or side effects, but they have a greater margin of error and fewer side effects as compared to pharmaceuticals.

Holistic practitioners look at symptoms as evidence of an imbalance. They use herbs as a more gentle and health supportive remedy. A way to reestablish balance.

For instance there are a couple of common flea treatments on the market such as Frontline, K9 Advantix and Advantage.

These products do kill fleas. But they’re harsh insecticides.
Interesting that you’re supposed to apply it with rubber gloves so as not to get any on you.

There are herbal flea repellant alternatives.

For instance you can make an herbal flea collar…
Combine 1 part each of a carrier oil (almond oil, olive oil, grapeseed oil) with any 3 of:
French Basil oil, Cedar oil, Cinnamon oil, Citronella oil, Clove oil, Lemon oil, Lavender oil, Rose Geranium, Eucalyptus oil.
(Do not use citronella, cedar, basil with a pregnant or nursing pet)

Pour the mixture over a fabric collar and let it soak in plastic bag. Drain on a paper towel.
You can refresh the collar by dripping on several drops.

You can learn about using herbs to help your pet in Natural Dog and Cat Care 101.

You can also find a wide variety of herbal and homepathic remedies for your pet at Pet Herbs Direct.