Turmeric milk, a beverage known for its myriad health benefits, is a popular drink among health enthusiasts. However, there’s an even more nutritious and delicious alternative to the traditional honey and turmeric mixture – golden milk. Join us today as we delve into the wonders of this ancient Indian drink and discover why it’s taking the world by storm.
What is Golden Milk?
Golden milk, also known as haldi doodh in India, is a vibrant yellow beverage with a long history in Ayurvedic medicine. Originating in India, this drink combines the powerful properties of turmeric with milk and other spices, creating a nourishing concoction that has captured the attention of health-conscious individuals worldwide, especially in Western countries.
Golden milk gets its vibrant yellow hue from turmeric, a potent spice renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is typically made by blending milk, either dairy or plant-based, with turmeric powder and other spices such as ginger and cinnamon. The drink is especially delightful when served warm, releasing its aromatic flavors.
1 How to Make Golden Milk
Preparing golden milk at home is simple and quick. Follow the recipe below to create this delicious and nutritious beverage.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 1 person
Ingredients for Golden Milk
- 120ml milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 5g turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 small piece of fresh ginger, grated, or 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 teaspoon honey or sweetener of your choice (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Milk
In a saucepan, combine milk, turmeric powder, cinnamon powder, black pepper, ginger, and honey (if using). Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse into the milk and releasing their aromatic flavors.
Step 2: Strain and Serve
Once the milk has boiled, remove it from the heat and strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps and create a smoother texture. Pour the golden milk into a mug, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top, and enjoy!
The Final Product
The resulting golden milk will have a beautiful yellow color and a distinctive turmeric aroma. You can prepare a larger batch and store it in the refrigerator for later consumption. Simply reheat a cup whenever you crave a warm, comforting drink.
2 Health Benefits of Golden Milk
Golden milk boasts an impressive range of health benefits, making it a popular choice for those seeking a natural approach to wellness.
Golden Milk May Help Reduce Pain and Inflammation
The combination of turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger in golden milk creates a potent anti-inflammatory effect. In fact, the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric are comparable to some pharmaceutical drugs, but without the unwanted side effects. This trio of ingredients helps flood the body with anti-inflammatory compounds, offering relief from the pain associated with joint inflammation.
Golden Milk May Improve Memory and Brain Function
Golden milk is a brain-boosting beverage, thanks to the presence of turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger:
Turmeric may increase Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a protein that promotes the growth and protection of brain cells, reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Cinnamon helps reduce the accumulation of Tau protein, which is associated with Alzheimer’s disease, and may also alleviate symptoms of Parkinson’s disease while improving overall brain function.
Ginger enhances neural response and protects against age-related loss of brain cells.
Golden Milk Exhibits Antibacterial, Antiviral, and Antifungal Properties
Golden milk has been used traditionally in India to ward off colds and flu. The fresh ginger in the drink inhibits bacterial growth and combats the human respiratory syncytial virus (HSRV), a common cause of respiratory infections.
Additionally, the cinnamon in golden milk contains cinnamaldehyde, which has antibacterial and antifungal properties, helping to combat respiratory infections caused by fungi. The anti-inflammatory properties of the drink also contribute to a stronger immune system.
Golden Milk Improves Digestive Health
For those suffering from chronic indigestion and discomfort in the upper abdomen, the ginger in golden milk can provide relief by stimulating digestive fire in the stomach. Turmeric, on the other hand, increases bile production by up to 62%, aiding digestion and preventing colon inflammation.
We hope that this article has shed light on the wonders of golden milk and its myriad health benefits. Now you can confidently prepare and enjoy this ancient beverage in the comfort of your own home!