Turmeric

Turmeric for horses and dogs

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a familiar part of the diet for many when an animal's daily life is full of movement, activity, and exercise. It is a plant-based feed ingredient that is incorporated as part of a balanced and considered diet for horses and dogs.

Turmeric is particularly known for its curcumin content as well as other bioactive compounds naturally found in plants, which make up its recognisable chemical profile. Turmeric is one of the most extensively studied plants in terms of its phytochemical composition.

The daily life of an actively moving animal consists of repeated muscle work, training, and physical exertion. In such situations, the quality and completeness of the diet become especially important. Turmeric is often chosen as part of the diet when you want to take the animal's active lifestyle into account and add plant-based depth to the feeding.

Turmeric has been part of feeding traditions for centuries across different cultures. Its use is based on the plant's natural composition and long history of use as part of nutritional regimens.

Natural composition

The turmeric rhizome contains curcuminoids, of which curcumin is the most significant in terms of quantity. In dried turmeric, the curcuminoid content is typically around 2–6%, depending on the variety and processing.

In addition, turmeric contains essential oils and other compounds belonging to the plant's bioactive profile as part of its normal structure.

Curcumins are fat-soluble compounds, which is why turmeric is often used together with a small amount of fat as part of the diet.

Use in feeding

Suitable for use as part of the daily diet or on a seasonal basis. Incorporated as part of a balanced total ration.

Dosage:

Horse (approx. 500 kg):
1–3 tbsp / day

Dogs:
½–2 tsp / day depending on size

Start with a small dose and increase the amount gradually.

1 tbsp ≈ 8 g

Please note

Not recommended for pregnant animals.
Those allergic to birch and alder pollen may also be cross-allergic to turmeric.

Background information and studies:

Dejonckheere R. Turmeric for Osteoarthritis in Veterinary Medicine: A Review. Herbal Veterinary Resources.
A review of the research literature on curcumin in a veterinary medicine context, including study designs related to horses and dogs.

Colitti M. et al. Transcriptome modification of white blood cells after dietary administration of curcumin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug in osteoarthritic affected dogs A study that monitored changes related to white blood cell gene expression in dogs in connection with curcumin.

Kępińska-Pacelik J. & Biel W. Turmeric and Curcumin — Health-Promoting Properties in Humans versus Dogs.
A literature review of the chemical and researched profile of curcuminoid compounds and their effects.

The Disappearing Herb: How Does Turmeric Benefit Horses?

Studies are used as background information for understanding the natural properties of the plant.