We've all heard of how amazing turmeric powder is by now, and the bright orange colour is well-recognised (and probably staining everything you own). Turmeric comes from the root of 'Curcuma Ionga', a flowering plant of the ginger family. But did you know it has ALL of these wonderful benefits?
? Anti-inflammatory (therefore can relieve osteoarthritis symptoms)
? Antioxidant
? Antibacterial
? Anti-fungal
? Supports detoxification
? Supports bowel health
? Supports a positive environment for healthy bacteria and enzymes in the gut
? Supports pancreatic actions
? Supports Phase II digestion with liver functions
? Helps with constipation
? Balances the Lower GI tract
? The last two points mean that turmeric powder can be used as a support for horses that tend to colic
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?? PRO TIP #1: Our turmeric has NOT had the curcumin removed, which is the key active ingredient in turmeric. It gives turmeric its distinct colour and flavour, and in its own right is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
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?? PRO TIP #2: The absorption rate of curcumin is low, therefore it is advised to add Piperine, which is a natural extract from black pepper, and enhances the absorption of curcumin by 2000%! ?? To enhance even better absorption, it is advised to feed with oil at the same time, as curcumin is fat soluble.
?? OIL: Try flax oil, as it is rich in omega oils and good for the joints and coat. However you can use cold pressed oil, unrefined coconut oil, virgin or extra virgin olive oil as well.
?? PEPPER: Use freshly cracked black pepper
?? HOW TO FEED: The quantity to feed depends on the size of your horse. For a 500kg horse, mix 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder with 2 tablespoons of oil or water into a paste and add roughly 1 teaspoon of fresh black pepper. You can substitute oil for water if you don't wish to use oil.
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?? PRO TIP #3: Introduce to your horse's diet slowly and build up over the course of a week or two – try starting with a total paste amount of 1 teaspoon per feed. Increase the amount every 4-5 days until you're feeding 1–2 tablespoons per feed. If your horse is fussy, add a little apple juice to sweeten it up a little to begin with.
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?? PRO TIP #4: The Golden Paste Recipe (can be used for humans as well as animals)
?? 1/2 cup turmeric powder
?? 1 cup water
?? 1/3 cup flaxseed oil
?? 2–3 tsp freshly ground, cracked black pepper
Place turmeric and water in pan, stirring over gentle heat (do not burn) until you have a thick paste. This should take about 7-10 minutes and you may need to add additional water along the way. Add the freshly ground pepper and oil at the end of cooking. Stir well with a whisk to mix the oil and allow to cool.
? The Golden Paste will keep for 2 weeks, refrigerated. You can also place into an ice cube tray and freeze if you can't use the amount within 2 weeks.