Turmeric is a spice from the ginger family and is the main ingredient in Golden Paste which is a mixture of Organic Turmeric (Curcumin level of 4.5%-5.5%) with Organic Coconut oil, water & ground pepper. Head here to download the 'how to make' info sheet According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), tested uses include as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-HIV and anti-viral agent, to help prevent blood clots, gallstones and liver problems and to relieve symptoms of indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, scabies and arthritis. In dogs we use it as a joint formula and general well being supplement. Golden Paste is often promoted as a miracle cure, it is not, it may be beneficial for some humans and animals and may not be to others. Golden Paste is not a preventative joint formula therefore, it is not beneficial for giving to non-affected animals unless you are using it as a general wellbeing formula. Will keep in the fridge for 2 weeks +. Keep in the fridge what you intend o use in the fortnight and freeze the rest. Dosage Start with about ¼ to ½ tsp, depending on the size of your dog. You can increase the amount from there, up to about a Tbsp for larger dogs. TIP: Turmeric leaves the body quickly, it needs to be given at least twice a day, however 3-4 times a day is best for a compromised dog. When you observe actual pain relief and improvement of movement OR in some cases, a reduction of tumour size, use this as your daily maintenance dose. Note: Animals can go through a body detox when adding turmeric to their diet for the first time and if there are any signs of loose stools or stomach upset then you may wish to reduce the dose to 1/8 teaspoon or so, and remain at a lower dose for a longer period. What's that smell? Some dogs can change their odour for the first couple of months on Golden Paste, if this happens, add a bit of Ceylon Cinnamon to their golden paste/meals and it will help the odour issue - but, unfortunately in some dogs, nothing will stop that smell. Contraindications & Side Effects Turmeric can cause allergic reactions, states the NIH. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include skin outbreaks like rash or hives, shortness of breath and anaphylaxis. People with allergies to plants in the ginger family or curcuma genus are most susceptible, as are those allergic to yellow food coloring, which is often derived from turmeric. Reactions can occur from skin contact as well as ingestion. Contact dermatitis, an itchy rash, is a sign. The most common side effects include stomach upset, nausea and diarrhea. Turmeric is also known to cause heartburn in people with ulcers. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center cautions that turmeric may interfere with chemotherapy treatments, and that people with gastrointestinal disorders, gallstones or bile-duct blockages should not take turmeric. Turmeric should not be taken by pregnant women; it can induce menstruation and abortion, according to Drugs.com. The NIH points out that the safety of turmeric supplements is not established for children, that they may increase the risk of bleeding, lower blood pressure and possibly weaken the immune system. Turmeric can have interactions with other drugs or supplements. Potential drug interactions exist with some anticoagulants and antiplatelets, camptothecin, celiprolol, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, mechlorethamine, midazolam and medications metabolized by CYP3A4 enzyme, as outlined by Sloan-Kettering. The NIH adds potential interactions with blood pressure and diabetes medications, anti-inflammatory drugs and cholesterol regulators. Interactions may occur with other supplements and herbs that affect these conditions as well. Consult your doctor before beginning any supplement regimen. Please speak with your vet to discuss further.