Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Botanical Classification

Scientific Name: Curcuma longa
Family: Zingiberaceae (Ginger family)
Common Names: Turmeric, Indian Saffron, Golden Spice

Parts Used

Rhizome (Root): The primary medicinal and culinary part, used fresh, dried, or powdered.
Leaves: Occasionally used in traditional medicine and cooking but less common than the rhizome.
Essential Oil: Extracted from the rhizome and used for therapeutic applications.

Constituents

Curcuminoids: Curcumin (main active compound with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and pain-relieving properties).
Volatile Oils: Turmerone, ar-turmerone, and zingiberene (support liver function and digestion).
Polysaccharides: Support immune function.
Minerals: Iron, potassium, manganese.
Vitamins: B6, C, E.

Medicinal Uses

Equine Use

Joint Support: Used for arthritis, stiffness, and inflammation in performance and older horses.
Digestive Aid: Supports gut health and may help prevent ulcers.
Liver Health: Aids liver detoxification and function.
Skin & Coat Health: Reduces itching and skin irritation.

Usage:

Typically given in the form of Golden Paste (turmeric, black pepper, and oil) to enhance absorption.
Can be added to feed in small amounts (starting with 5g daily and increasing gradually).

Precautions:

Must be combined with black pepper (piperine) and oil for proper absorption.
High doses may cause stomach irritation in sensitive horses.
Avoid in horses with gallbladder issues.

Canine Use

Joint & Mobility Support: Helps dogs with arthritis and inflammation.
Digestive Health: Supports gut flora and helps with bloating.
Skin & Allergy Relief: Used for itchy skin, infections, and inflammation.
Cancer Prevention: Antioxidant properties help support long-term health.

Usage:

Best given as Golden Paste (small amounts added to food).
Can be mixed with wet food or homemade meals for better absorption.

Precautions:

Must be introduced gradually to prevent digestive upset.
Not recommended for dogs with gallstones or liver disease without veterinary advice.
Black pepper enhances absorption but should be used in moderation in dogs with sensitive digestion.

UK & Isle of Man Folklore & Traditional Uses

Protective & Purifying: Turmeric was often used in herbal traditions for protection against disease and evil spirits.
Fertility & Luck: In ancient British folklore, yellow or golden herbs were sometimes associated with prosperity and fertility.
Healing Herb: Though more commonly used in India, turmeric became known in European herbalism as a warming, healing spice.
Manx Herbal Remedies: While turmeric was not native to the Isle of Man, its use became incorporated into herbal apothecaries over time.

Conclusion

Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant herb with benefits for humans, horses, and dogs. It is commonly used for joint support, digestion, skin health, and immune function. In UK and Isle of Man folklore, golden-colored herbs like turmeric were linked to protection, healing, and prosperity.

For best results, turmeric should always be combined with black pepper and oil for proper absorption. It should be used in moderation and introduced gradually to prevent digestive issues.

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