Curcumin

Curcumin is the main active component derived from the turmeric spice (Curcuma longa). The compound belongs to the polyphenolic group of compounds. Curcumin possesses naturally occurring antioxidant as well as anti-inflammatory effects and is used in veterinary approved supplements to promote the health of pets, especially senior dogs.


As for its anti-inflammatory properties, curcumin is almost as effective as some drugs but is free from unwanted effects. In this way, curcumin alleviates inflammatory disorders, such as arthritis. Senior pets usually suffer from the degeneration of joints because turmeric, acting as a free radical scavenger, possesses the ability to reduce inflammation.




What the research says.
Curcumin: A Natural Solution to Replace Synthetic Antioxidants in Dog Food and Enhance Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Capacity
Curcumin addition to the dog food could be an alternative to the synthetic antioxidants, reducing protein oxidation as well as lipid peroxidation of the feed while increasing antioxidant potential in the food and body of the dog. Curcumin supplementation is found to boost the dog's antioxidant defense system, in addition to its anti-inflammatory effects that can improve overall health.

Curcumin's Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Cartilage-Protective Effects in Arthritis: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential
Curcumin has the ability to reduce inflammation, act as an antioxidant, and protect cartilage against deterioration. The way curcumin does this is by suppressing NF-κB pathways, lowering the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, increasing antioxidant capacity, and helping maintain the structure of cartilage. Studies show that curcumin has therapeutic potential in the management of osteoarthritis by reducing pain, restoring the ability to function normally, and preventing cartilage damage.

Curcuma Polysaccharide-Rich Turmeric Extract: A Safe and Palatable Natural Adjunct for Canine Osteoarthritis Pain Relief and Joint Health
Turmeric extract which is abundant in curcumin polysaccharides reduces pain and mobility difficulty owing to osteoarthritis in dogs and is safe and palatable to use. This natural ingredient inherently has anti-inflammatory and cartilage protective properties and can be used as a natural addition to synthetic components of pet joint care products such as glucosamine and chondroitin.

Curcumin's Neuroprotective Potential: Targeting Oxidative Stress, Neuroinflammation, and Cerebrovascular Homeostasis
Curcumin has notable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and protective effects on the nervous system. It has potential benefits in combating neurodegenerative diseases, neuroinflammation, and cerebrovascular diseases by influencing oxidative stress, inflammation processes, and the stability of blood vessels in the brain.