Turmeric Golden Paste For Dogs - Healing Benefits & Full Recipe

In recent years, pet owners have become increasingly interested in natural remedies to enhance the health and wellbeing of their pets. One such remedy that has gained popularity is turmeric, a golden spice renowned for its medicinal properties.

When it comes to our beloved canine companions, turmeric can offer a multitude of benefits, from reducing inflammation to improving digestion and supporting cognitive health. However, simply adding turmeric to your dog’s food isn’t enough to unlock its full potential.

That’s where golden paste comes in—a specially prepared mixture that maximises the absorption and efficacy of turmeric. In this post, we will explore the benefits of turmeric for dogs and provide a detailed recipe for making your own golden paste at home.

The Benefits of Turmeric for Dogs

Turmeric, the primary ingredient in golden paste, contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties. Here are some of the key advantages of turmeric for dogs:

• Anti-inflammatory properties - Curcumin helps reduce inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis and joint pain, enhancing overall joint health and mobility, especially in senior dogs.
• Antioxidant effects - It neutralises harmful free radicals, protecting cells from damage and boosting resilience against illness and infection.
• Neuroprotective benefits - Curcumin may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline, supporting brain health in ageing dogs.
• Digestive health - Turmeric promotes healthy digestion and can alleviate digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhoea.
• Skin and coat health - The compounds in turmeric can improve the condition of a dog’s coat and skin, reducing itchiness and dryness associated with allergies or skin conditions.

Why Use Golden Paste?

Simply sprinkling turmeric on your dog’s food is not sufficient due to curcumin's low bioavailability, meaning it is poorly absorbed by the body when consumed on its own. Golden paste enhances the absorption and effectiveness of curcumin through the following mechanisms:

• Fat-soluble curcumin - Curcumin is better absorbed when consumed with fats or oils. Without these, much of the curcumin passes through the digestive system without being absorbed.
• Enhanced absorption with black pepper - Piperine, a compound found in black pepper, can increase the absorption of curcumin by up to 2000%.
• Reduced gastrointestinal irritation - In large amounts, turmeric powder can irritate the gastrointestinal tract. Adding oils helps coat the stomach lining, reducing the risk of irritation or discomfort.

The Recipe: Golden Paste for Dogs

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup organic turmeric powder
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup organic MCT oil
• 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

1. Mix the turmeric powder and water in a pan over low heat. Stir until it forms a thick paste.
2. Stir in the organic MCT oil and black pepper. Continue stirring for another 5 minutes until well combined.
3. Once cooled, transfer the golden paste into a clean glass jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Serving Suggestions:

Add the golden paste directly to your dog's food by mixing it with a bit of water, bone broth, or kefir. The suggested dose is between 15 to 20 mg per pound of body weight. For simplicity, start with:

• 1/4 teaspoon for small dogs
• 1/2 teaspoon for medium dogs
• 3/4 teaspoon for large dogs
• 1 teaspoon for giant breeds

Why Use MCT Oil Instead of Coconut Oil?

While coconut oil is a common ingredient in golden paste, this recipe uses organic MCT oil to provide better nutrition for your dog. Here’s why:

• Better digestion - MCTs (medium-chain triglycerides) are easier to digest and quickly absorbed, providing a rapid source of energy.
• No lauric acid - Coconut oil contains a mix of fatty acids, including lauric acid, which can act like a long-chain triglyceride (LCT), potentially being stored as fat. Organic MCT oil offers a cleaner source of true MCTs without excess lauric acid.

Conclusion

By using organic MCT oil instead of coconut oil, you’re ensuring your dog gets the best possible nutrition, enhancing the benefits of turmeric. Remember to check labels to ensure the oil contains no lauric acid. Incorporating this golden paste into your dog's diet can lead to significant improvements in their health and wellbeing.