Introducing Kur-Q-Flex & Micro-encapsulated Curcumin
Kur-Q-Flex is Micro-encapsulated Curcumin in a liquid form, and is one of the latest products to join our Hestevard Signature Range.
Turmeric and Curcumin are often talked about and traditionally used with horses, however Micro-encapsulation technology takes Turmeric and Curcumin to a whole new level and our Hestevard Kur-Q-Flex is rapidly gaining recognition in the equine world.
So, what is all the fuss about?
Curcumin is the active ingredient found in Turmeric, a spice commonly used in cooking, and has been used in traditional remedies for centuries due to its support for the body’s anti-inflammatory systems. In recent years, research has shown that Curcumin can also improve gut health, boost the immune system, and support overall health and wellness. However, despite the many benefits of Curcumin, it can be challenging for horses to digest and absorb.
Micro-encapsulation technology has helped to overcome these challenges, making Curcumin more effective and easier for horses to benefit from. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of micro-encapsulated Curcumin and why it is a useful supplement for horses.
What is Micro-Encapsulation Technology?
Micro-encapsulation technology is a process by which tiny particles of one substance are coated with another substance to protect them from the environment. In the case of micro-encapsulated Curcumin, the Curcumin particles are coated with a protective layer of fat, protein, or carbohydrate, allowing them to survive the digestive process and be more easily absorbed into the bloodstream. Micro-encapsulation has been used for a variety of applications, from drug delivery systems to food additives. In the case of Curcumin, micro-encapsulation has allowed for more effective delivery of the active ingredient, ensuring that horses can benefit from its many health-promoting properties.
Benefits of Micro-Encapsulated Curcumin for Horses
- Supports the body’s Anti-inflammatory systems
One of the most significant benefits of micro-encapsulated curcumin for horses is its ability to work with the natural systems in the horse which control inflammation. Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can lead to all kinds of health problems, including joint pain, digestive issues, etc. Curcumin has been shown to be a potent anti-inflammatory agent, blocking the production of inflammatory molecules in the body. This can help reduce joint discomfort and stiffness in horses with conditions such as arthritis, as well as improve overall immune function and gut health.
- Improved Digestive Health
Another significant benefit of micro-encapsulated Curcumin for horses is its ability to aid digestive health. Horses can be prone to digestive issues, including colic and diarrhoea, each of these can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, diet, and medication. Curcumin has been shown to have a protective effect on the gut lining, reducing the risk of inflammation and reducing the risk of damage to the intestinal wall. This can help reduce the risk of digestive issues and assist overall gut health in horses.
- Aids the Immune System
The immune system is responsible for protecting the body from infection and disease, and a healthy immune system is essential for overall health and well-being. Curcumin has been shown to have immune support properties, stimulating the production of white blood cells and increasing the body's ability to fight off infection. This can be particularly beneficial for horses who are under stress, such as during training or competition, or who are prone to infections such as respiratory illnesses.
- Antioxidant Properties
Curcumin is also a potent antioxidant, meaning it can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and may contribute to the development of disease and aging. In horses, Curcumin's antioxidant properties can help protect against the damaging effects of oxidative stress, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to pollutants and toxins, intense exercise, and aging.
- Easy to Administer
One of the most significant advantages of micro-encapsulated Curcumin for horses is that it is easy to administer. Curcumin is a bitter-tasting compound that can be challenging to get horses to consume. However, micro-encapsulation technology allows for the curcumin particles to be coated with a protective layer that makes it easier to mix with feed or administer as a supplement. This ensures that horses are getting the full benefits of Curcumin without the hassle of trying to get them to consume it.
- Reduced Quantity
Feeding either Turmeric or Curcumin to your horse in its natural state, traditionally would mean feeding a large quantity of quite an un-palatable dry powder. By introducing Curcumin extract and then micro-encapsulating it, the active components become more concentrated by 360x and thus you need a significantly smaller quantity to have the same beneficial outcome. Increasing the concentration and making the active component highly bioavailable for the horse means that in as little as 30ml of a supplement such as Hestevard Kur-Q-Flex equates to feeding almost 500g of standard turmeric in a powdered form.
How to Choose a Micro-encapsulated Curcumin Supplement for Horses
When choosing a micro-encapsulated Curcumin supplement for your horse, it’s essential to look for a high-quality product that has been manufactured using best practices. Here are some things to consider:
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Quality Ingredients: Look for a product that contains high-quality micro-encapsulated Curcumin and other ingredients that are safe for horses.
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Potency: Choose a supplement with a high potency of Curcumin to ensure that your horse is getting the full benefits of the compound.
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Sustainability: Ensure that your chosen supplement company is selecting ingredients from sustainable sources and working to reduce their impact on the environment through sustainable packaging and reducing their use of single use plastics that are not readily recyclable or looking for innovative packaging options.
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Manufacturing Standards: Ensure that the supplement has been manufactured using best practices and meets industry standards for quality and safety.
- Cost: While cost is a factor to consider, it is essential not to compromise on quality. Look for a supplement that offers good value for money while still providing high-quality ingredients and potency.
In summary, micro-encapsulated Curcumin is an excellent supplement for horses that offers a wide range of health benefits. From its traditionally recognised anti-inflammatory properties to its ability to aid the immune system and improve digestive health, Curcumin can help promote overall health and well-being in horses.
Micro-encapsulation technology has made it easier to feed Curcumin to horses, ensuring that they can benefit from its many health-promoting properties – making sure that the active ingredients are highly bio-available to the horse.
When choosing a micro-encapsulated Curcumin supplement for your horse, make sure you look for a high-quality product that meets industry standards for quality, safety whilst also being kind to your pocket. Hestevard Kur-Q-Flex is leading the way in offering high quality micro-encapsulated Curcumin, manufactured from sustainable sources and tested for naturally occurring prohibited substances at every step of the journey.
Kur-Q-Flex is being introduced to the Hestevard Signature Range and provides every horse owner with a high quality, sensibly priced liquid supplement, from leisure riders to owners of equestrian competition horses, Kur-Q-Flex is a great addition to you daily feed routine.
