Do you have the winter blues? Looking for a way to give your body a boost of energy and health during those cold months? Golden Milk is the answer. Considered an ancient healing drink, golden milk combines various spices that are all packed with antioxidant properties that will help detoxify your body while boosting immunity and overall energy levels. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits this delicious drink can offer, as well as some recipes to make it even tastier!
Golden Milk: what is it?
Golden Milk, often referred to as Turmeric Latte or Turmeric Milk, is a traditional Ayurvedic remedy that has been consumed in India and Southeast Asia for over two thousand years by yogis. This hot and spicy drink is made with premium turmeric, along with other spices such as cinnamon, ginger, and black pepper. Together, these spices give the drink mild flavors and a stimulating effect.
In Indian culture, it is known as haldi ka doodh and is used both preventively and curatively to support general health and well-being.
The benefits that make this winter drink so popular.
When it comes to its potential benefits, many experts tout its anti-inflammatory properties that can help:
- Relieve joint inflammation.
- Strengthen immunity.
- Improve digestion.
- Reduce fatigue.
- Lower cholesterol levels.
- Improve cardiovascular health.
- Reduce stress level.
- Stimulate cognitive performance.
- Relieve menstrual cramps.
- Improve skin health.
- Facilitate weight loss efforts.
Its composition:
The main ingredient: turmeric. Provides this concoction with an array of phytochemicals that have been clinically studied for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is these compounds that would be at the origin of its therapeutic effects. Combined with black pepper, they provide greater efficacy – due to piperine’s role in enhancing the absorption of curcumin (one of the main active ingredients in turmeric) into the bloodstream.
Also, adding healthy fats such as coconut oil or almond butter has been shown to increase bioavailability. Which means that our body can absorb more beneficial phytochemicals present in Golden Milk. It is therefore recommended to include dairy alternatives such as coconut milk or nut milks when preparing Golden Milk at home.
How to prepare Golden Milk at home?
Start by gathering your ingredients:
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk, such as almond, coconut, or oatmeal.
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder.
- ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon.
- A pinch of black pepper and a little sweetener like honey or maple syrup (optional).
Start by adding all the dry ingredients to a small bowl and mixing until fully combined. This is an important step to ensure that all flavors are properly blended and evenly distributed in the finished product.
Then pour the vegetable milk into a small saucepan over medium heat. Once it has reached a slight simmer (not boiling), add the spice mix from the bowl. It’s important to stir continuously as you add the spices so they don’t settle to the bottom and clump together. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the spices are fragrant and fully blended.
Once you’re done simmering, strain any bits that have settled to the bottom of the pan through a fine-mesh strainer if desired. Then place your Golden Milk in a cup or two small cups if you want to share with someone else! Finally, add a little sweetener if you wish and enjoy!
