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Turmeric and Curcumin: Health-Promoting Properties in Humans versus Dogs

Summary

This research examines how turmeric and its main compound curcumin can benefit both human and animal health. Turmeric has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and modern science is now validating many of its health benefits. The study shows it can help with various conditions including inflammation, cancer, and oxidative stress-related diseases. Impacts on everyday life: • Turmeric can be used as a natural alternative or complement to conventional medicines for managing inflammation and pain • Adding turmeric to diet may help prevent certain diseases and support overall health • Pet owners can consider turmeric supplements to help manage their dogs’ joint problems and other health issues • Understanding proper dosing and formulation is important as bioavailability is limited • Awareness of potential side effects helps consumers make informed decisions about turmeric use

Background

Turmeric belongs to the family Zingiberaceae and is grown extensively in Asia. It is used as a spice, food coloring, and in traditional medicine. The biologically active compounds that give turmeric its properties are curcuminoids, including curcumin, de-methoxycurcumin, and bis-demethoxycurcumin. Over 41,000 papers have been published about curcumin and turmeric as of 2023.

Objective

To characterize turmeric and its main substance, curcumin, in terms of their properties, advantages, and disadvantages based on literature data, with a focus on health benefits for both humans and dogs.

Results

The review found that curcuminoids demonstrate significant anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antioxidant effects in both humans and dogs. In humans, benefits were observed for conditions including Alzheimer’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, various cancers, liver diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, and COVID-19. In dogs, positive effects were found for osteoarthritis, degenerative myelopathy, wound healing, and periodontal disease. However, bioavailability remains a major limitation, requiring various formulation strategies to improve absorption.

Conclusion

Turmeric and curcumin exhibit pleiotropic effects with therapeutic potential for both humans and dogs, particularly for inflammatory, cancer, and oxidative stress-related conditions. While generally safe, high doses may cause side effects like gastrointestinal issues. The main limitation is poor bioavailability, requiring improved delivery methods. Future research should focus on curcumin as adjuvant therapy for companion animals and addressing palatability issues.
  • Published in:International Journal of Molecular Sciences,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 10.3390/ijms241914561
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