Turmeric is the latest wonder herb from Southern India, but a huge rise in popularity comes with conflicting information. If you are researching Turmeric Tablets for Dogs, here is the low-down on this golden spice from the experts at Dorwest Herbs.
1. What should you look for when choosing your turmeric for dogs?
Due to the huge surge in popularity, unfortunately, there are those wanting to make a ‘quick buck’ by selling low-quality produce. Turmeric has even been found to be mixed with other ingredients and artificially coloured. So, here are the top tips to consider before buying turmeric supplements for dogs:
- Make sure your dog’s turmeric tablets are from a reputable company.
- Check the turmeric has been identified using various testing methods (macroscopy, microscopy, DNA & HPTLC) and can be fully traceable - with tests carried out from the field to the end product.
- Turmeric for dogs must be of medicinal quality; culinary turmeric is produced for taste not the quality of the curcuminoid compounds.
- Check that it’s sustainable and grown using responsible practices.
- Look for standardised quantities of the curcuminoids (the active part of the root).
2. Can the body easily use it? How to effectively supplement turmeric in dog food
The bioavailability (the amount available to be used by the body) of curcumin is low. Curcumin is poorly absorbed into the body and is then rapidly metabolised and eliminated from the body. You can increase the bioavailability of curcumin for dogs with two methods.
- Ingesting a fatty substance at the same time as curcumin.
- Eating it with a compound found naturally in black pepper – piperine.
One study has found that taking piperine along with Curcumin can increase its bioavailability by 2000%! Dorwest Herbs Turmeric Tablets for Dogs contain piperine, so this source of curcumin for dogs is easily absorbed.
Turmeric is relatively easy to give to your pet, simply adding turmeric and curcumin supplements to your dog’s normal diet will provide enough of the fat needed for its absorption.
3. Are there side effects of turmeric for dogs?
Turmeric is thought amongst herbalists to be a very safe herb. Although, it is important to discuss its use with your veterinarian before you give it to your pet, especially if they are taking any medication or about to undergo elective surgery.
It’s important to note that turmeric reportedly has anti-coagulant properties which could exacerbate clotting disorders.
4. There’s a range of health benefits of turmeric for dogs!
Turmeric has become an increasingly popular health trend, and for good reason. Our Turmeric Tablets for Dogs have naturally occurring anti-inflammatory and pain relief properties. And with so many studies currently being undertaken, there are likely more health benefits of turmeric for dogs we are yet to find out - watch this space!
5. What is curcumin and is it important?
Turmeric’s Latin name is Curcuma longa. Its therapeutic properties have been widely attributed to its ‘curcuminoids’ compounds.
There are 3 main curcuminoids of which 80% of this is the most well-known ‘curcumin’. Curcumin is thought to be the ‘active’ part of the plant however it is important to note that the whole herb exhibits activities superior to curcumin alone. Good quality turmeric and curcumin supplement for dogs will contain a standardised amount of curcuminoids of 95%.
Taking the whole herb means you not only get the curcuminoids but also all the other compounds that makeup turmeric. This corresponds with a widely held belief of herbal medicine called synergy, and qualified herbalists will usually always prescribe the whole herb rather than compounds extracted from it.
For more information on Dorwest Herbs Turmeric Tablets for Dogs, get in touch with one of our experienced advisors. Call us today on 01308 897272 or use our contact form. Plus, get free UK delivery on orders over £50!
Please remember, you should always consult a vet if you are concerned about your pet’s health.
