Often referred to as turmeric milk, the blend primarily made with milk and turmeric also known as golden milk, confers numerous benefits to our bodies and our brains. Turmeric, a spice native to South Asia and part of the ginger family, is said to have antimicrobial characteristics, and has been linked (though not widely confirmed) to have anti-cancer properties. The primary power player in turmeric is curcumin, a polyphenol substance known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich properties. But rather than consuming the extracted phytochemical, curcumin, take advantage of the rich palate of phytochemicals found by using only turmeric as the whole herb.
Typically, golden milk consists of these ingredients:
- Coconut, almond, or hemp milk
- Turmeric (of course!)
- Black Pepper (which increases our bodies absorption of curcumin)
- Cinnamon and/or nutmeg
- Ginger
- Honey
- Water
Well over 2500 studies support the benefits of turmeric including reduction of blood sugar levels, improved brain function, better weight management and lowered cholesterol. And most recently, positive effects were noticed for those with pain and/or osteoarthritis in the knee. But before you get too ambitious, it’s important to note that just like everything else in life, it is possible to overdo it. More is not necessarily better. You only need just a pinch of turmeric, along with all the other ingredients, to benefit.
Think of turmeric as a wellness-promoting herb that should be included in your daily health routine. Make the daily consumption of an 8-oz glass of golden milk every day, warmed slightly on the stove, to provide a large number of benefits. There are several variations of golden milk recipes, so test out what works best for your palette, and enjoy!