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Pre-Treatment with Turmeric (C. Xanthorrhiza) Reduces the Severity of Squamous Gastric Ulceration in Feed Restricted Horses

Pre-Treatment with Turmeric (C. Xanthorrhiza) Reduces the Severity of Squamous Gastric Ulceration in Feed Restricted Horses

Abstract 

SPS Fletcher1,2* and SL Gough1 1 School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, Australia 2 Integral Equine Nutrition, 1 Mallawa Road, Duffys Forest, NSW, Australia

Can Turmeric Help Prevent Gastric Ulcers in Horses? New Study Shows Promising Results 

Introduction 

Gastric ulcers in horses are a common and often painful condition, particularly in stabled horses or those undergoing dietary stress. Ulcers can negatively affect a horse’s health, performance, and overall welfare. A new study investigated whether turmeric supplementation could help prevent gastric ulceration during confinement and feed restriction. 

Study Overview: Turmeric for Equine Gastric Health 

Researchers conducted a 16-day randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover trial using 10 horses. The goal was to assess the protective effects of oral turmeric supplementation on the stomach lining, specifically targeting squamous gastric ulcers, which often worsen under stress and dietary changes. 

Key Study Details: 

  •  Sample: 10 horses Duration: 
  • The horses fed on alternate days 
  • 16 days per treatment period + 10-week washout 
  •  Dosage: 20g turmeric powder once daily in feed 
  •  Control group: Received the same base diet with no turmeric 
  •  Ulcer monitoring: Gastroscopy performed on Day 0, Day 9 (after stabling), and Day 16 (after feed-fasting) 

Results: Turmeric Helped Prevent Ulcer Worsening 

The results were clear: 

  •  Control horses (no turmeric) showed a significant increase in squamous ulcer severity during stable confinement and feed-fasting periods (P < 0.001). 
  •  Turmeric-treated horses did not experience the same worsening (P = 0.247). 
  •  By Day 16, ulcers were significantly more severe in the control group compared to the turmeric group (P = 0.037). 
  •  Glandular mucosa (lower part of the stomach) showed less dramatic changes in both groups. 

Conclusion: Turmeric May Support Stomach Health in Horses 

 This study suggests that daily oral turmeric supplementation (20g/day) may be effective in reducing the severity of squamous gastric ulcers in horses under stressful conditions like confinement and dietary restriction. 

 Why It Matters: 

  • Horses in stables or under high-performance workloads are at greater risk of ulcers. 
  • Turmeric, a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, may offer a safe, cost-effective option to support gut health. 
  • Preventing ulcers can improve appetite, behavior, comfort, and athletic performance. 

What is UlcaBuf?

Ulcabuf was developed based on the research.

Ulcabuf contains

  • Curcuma xanthorrhiza..suppress formation of stomach ulcers
  • Powdered coconut oil..assist absorption of the turmeric
  • Seaweed derived calcium..supports normal pH in the hndgut
  • Yeasacc..probiotic
  • Actigen..prebiotic
  • Sodium alginate  support integrity of intestinal mucosa

Recommendations for Horse Owners 

If your horse is prone to gastric ulcers, especially during periods of stress or limited forage, consider the following: 

  •   Use turmeric based products such as Ulcabuf as a supportive addition, not a replacement, for veterinary care and proper management. 
  •  Ensure your horse has access to forage, clean water, and minimal fasting time.

Full article

Scientific Articles gastric turmeric ulcers ulcabuf squamous ulcer