Table of Contents
What is Turmeric?
Overview
Turmeric is an Asian plant, Curcuma longa, the root of which yields a vibrant yellow powder used as a colourant and spice. It’s part of the gender family and is used in Ayurvedic medicine, a branch of traditional Indian medicine, to treat an array of conditions in humans – from rashes and arthritis to IBS. The healing powder, which is mostly grown and consumed in India, is prepared by crushing the dried root stalks (called rhizomes) of the flowering turmeric plant. It’s also frequently used in pre-packaged human and pet foods as a color or flavor enhancer.
The detail!
Historically, turmeric has been used in medicinal systems from India and other regions of the world. In India it was traditionally used for skin disorders, respiratory illnesses, joint health and gastrointestinal complaints.
Today, there are a variety of health conditions often thought to be improved with turmeric. Conditions include arthritis, digestive disorders, respiratory infections, allergies, liver disease and depression.
One of the most common spice and a major ingredient in curry powder, turmeric also has it’s own yellow color coming from the turmeric flavonoids. It is mainly used for its curcumin which gives it different shades of color as well as promotes diverse health benefits.
Turmeric dietary supplements are made from the dried rhizomes and typically contain a mixture of curcuminoids. Turmeric also comes in topical pastes for skin conditions.
Are there Benefits of Turmeric for Dogs?
Natural anti-inflammatory options like turmeric can help with joint mobility in dogs. Experts weigh in to answer the question many dog owners are asking: Are there benefits of turmeric for dogs? Turmeric can be found in the Himalayan region of Himalayan Hermit Valley and Himalayan Cuisine of India, India, or Himalayan Rice Rice, for example, can be used in the region of India to help with arthritis, arthritis, and osteoprophesia, among other things
Is Turmeric Good for Dogs?
Turmeric is a natural compound with numerous positive benefits for dogs. Curcumin is the active ingredient in the spice turmeric that has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. Turmeric can be used topically on dogs, but with caution. It may not be appropriate for all dogs because it’s a natural product, but those that get on well with it may be able to reduce dependence on the Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) that are often prescribed for conditions like arthritis.
What are the side effects in humans?
Mostly these are human side effects – turmeric for dogs is still largely untested, although of course its anti-inflammatory properties is still one of the health benefits of turmeric, working with joint pain, whether in paste or tablet form.
But here are some of the non-health benefits:
It can irritate your stomach
Large doses of turmeric contain the same irritants as the food people eat in large quantities. Some participants in studies on turmeric for cancer treatment had to withdraw from participating because their digestive systems were negatively affected.
Some people experience better digestion when consuming turmeric. But for others, it can really do a number on their stomach.
It’s a blood thinner
In addition to its detoxifying properties, turmeric may make one bleed easier. This is probably due to the effect turmeric has on blood flow.
People who take blood-thinning drugs like warfarin (Coumadin) should avoid consuming large doses of turmeric. In a dig’s diet thank you should also look at your dog’s medications just to be sure. Although it’s natural, adding turmeric to a dog’s food should be done with caution.
Is Turmeric Safe for Dogs?
As with people, turmeric may cause stomach upset or constipation in some dogs. Dogs with kidney stones should not receive turmeric supplements because the herb can increase the level of urinary oxalate, making kidney stone formation more likely. Turmeric is usually not suitable for diabetic dogs, as it can affect blood sugar levels. It has blood-thinning properties that could lead to complications during the procedure. Check with your veterinarian before starting your dog on a regimen, consult your vet to get more info.
Researchers have not evaluated if dogs benefit from turmeric, but it has been reported as an effective treatment for inflammation and pain.
Turmeric can be used topically on dogs with caution. It has been used for inflammation and cancerous lumps but warns pet parents of potential staining, as well as messes that may occur due to the yellow pigment in the spice.
An animal’s natural tendency to lick anything it has come into contact with can actually make topical applicators more harmful.
Turmeric Powder
Turmeric powder can be mixed with coconut or olive oil and ground pepper to create a paste. It’s best to use the paste with wet food, and it’s good for up to two weeks. For large dogs, give a daily spoonful of the paste mixed with food, half a spoonful for medium-sized dogs, and 1/4th for a small dog. It’s good for small dogs to eat daily for two weeks, and for larger dogs you can go for a bit longer, but make sure that you are keeping your vet informed about what you are doing and for how long.
Conclusion – How good is turmeric for my dog?
Although turmeric is not yet proven to be a health benefit for dogs, it has been reported that it can reduce inflammation and provide pain relief in pets.
Turmeric is a very specific spice with deep yellow coloring. Some people overlook this or fail to consider where the pet will be licking, but experts warn against it nonetheless because it could make skin irritations worse. It is normally applied as turmeric paste and, as turmeric paste, it can also stain in the house.
However, on balance, looking at the above information there may be space for turmeric in your doggie care tool kit.
Dogs and Turmeric FAQs
What does turmeric do for dogs?
Turmeric, a natural anti-inflammatory option, can help with joint mobility in dogs with joint issues. People ask can I give turmeric to my dog.
Experts weigh in to answer the question many dog owners are asking: Are there benefits of turmeric for dogs? Turmeric can be found in the Himalayan region of India and other areas around that area where it’s historically been more prevalent or used commonly
Turmeric is a natural compound that offers diverse benefits when consumed by dogs. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. When applied topically, it can help reduce dependence on NSAIDs prescribed for arthritis and other conditions. However, caution should be taken as its side effects may vary from animal to animal.
How much tumeric can I give my dog?
It is always wise to speak to a vet as each animal may be different. Certainly you should never give a dose that would be appropriate for a human.
Curcumin is the active ingredient of turmeric. It has anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties and it can reduce dependence on NSAIDs when applied topically. Side effects vary from animal to animal, but caution should be taken.
Can turmeric upset a dog’s stomach?
Some side effects may include:
- Stomach upsets or constipation can happen after taking too much of the product at once. If this occurs, make sure to start out with a lower dose and work your way up to the recommended amount.
- If your dog is prone to kidney stones, taking turmeric tablets may make the problem worse due in part to effects on urinary oxalate levels. If you suspect this to be a potential issue take caution when using turmeric tablets with your dog.
There are a number of safety considerations when giving turmeric to pets that you should be aware. There are interactions with drugs your animals may receive, so talk to the vet before starting use of turmeric paste or tablets.
- your dog is on a prescription to treat diabetes as turmeric can cause blood sugar to drop.
- Turmeric supplements should be discontinued at least a month before surgery.
How do I give turmeric to my dog?
Mix turmeric into food or provide supplements in pills, chews, and treats.
Turmeric Powder
Turmeric powder for dogs can be mixed into either coconut or olive oil with ground pepper to create a paste. The paste is good for up to two weeks. For large dogs, mix one tablespoon of the paste into their food daily and 1/4th teaspoonful for small ones.
Turmeric Liquid
For dogs who struggle to keep pills down, natural turmeric drops may be one solution. Depending on the size and weight of your pet, the dosage should vary between 1 tsp to 2 tsp.
Turmeric Chewable Tablets
If your dog’s diet doesn’t include enough tumeric, supplement with chews and tablets that are rich in the spice. Dogs also like to eat these knowing they’re receiving a treat; there are options flavored like liver and bacon. Make sure you purchase natural products without artificial ingredients such as wheat, corn, soy, or eggs.
Dogs can eat turmeric in the form of paste or drops added to their meals, and as a chewable capsule or treat. But if you want your dog to get any health benefits, it’s important to check that it says “turmeric curcumin” on the ingredient list.
What is the best natural anti-inflammatory for dogs?
There are benefits of turmeric for dogs, including natural anti-inflammatory options.
Turmeric can be found in the Himalayan region of Himalayan Hermit Valley and Himalayan Cuisine of India, India, or Himalayan Rice Rice, for example, can be used in the region to help with arthritis, arthritis, and osteoprophes.
Article summary: turmeric anti-inflammatory properties/dog food/benefits for dogs/dog’s diet/joint pain/dog health