What is golden milk? A healing, warming, immune-building and inflammation-reducing beverage that has been used for ages. Some say it originated in Okinawa, Japan. Others insist it comes from the Ayurvedic tradition in India. Either way, it is a recommended practice for many and a warming beverage for body and mind.
The essential ingredients are listed below. Why are each of these included? Learn about each one and its potential healing benefits.
Ginger – A flowering plant where the root is used as a spice. It grows in China, Japan, India, and now in South America and Africa. It is widely known for its assistance with stomach issues everything from gas, bloating, upset stomach to assistance with diarrhea and vomiting. You can find ginger powdered, fresh, or dried to use in recipes. For more information, learn more here: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-961/ginger or here: https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/ginger.html.
Turmeric – It is a plant close in origin to ginger that is found growing in India, Central America, and Asia. (https://www.webmd.com/diet/ss/slideshow-turmeric) An antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-cancer agent that is easily found in health food or grocery store. Some researchers believe it can reduce depression, fatigue, prevent the onset of diabetes, ease PMS symptoms, ease liver and gallbladder issues, reduce arthritis pain, fight off viruses and reduce flu symptoms. For more information, visit this website: https://nccih.nih.gov/health/turmeric/ataglance.htm.
Cinnamon- It is made from a cinnamon tree’s bark and there are several different kinds.
What is most commonly consumed in the United States is Cassia Cinnamon from China. It is often toted to help with Bronchitis and gastrointestinal issues. Some people can become allergic to spice especially when exposed to large amounts. According to this website: https://nccih.nih.gov/health/cinnamon, it is relatively safe but still not recommended to use caution.
Black Pepper – This spice comes from a flowering vine with a fruit (Peppercorn) that is harvested and dried to add spice or to season foods. It is important to include black pepper in a Golden Milk recipe to help the Turmeric be absorbed more readily. It is also considered anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/health-benefits-of-black-pepper.html.
Coconut oil – There is some controversy around the benefits vs. risks of coconut oil. The American Heart Association recommends avoiding it due to the potential increase in Low-Density Lipoproteins (LDLs- the bad ones), but other naturopaths and online health gurus like Dr. Axe claim it to be a Superfood (https://draxe.com/nutrition/coconut-oil-uses/). Yet, a little coconut oil in a Golden Milk recipe can make it tastier and smoother to drink. A milk of your choice – Almond and coconut are used most often in recipes for Golden Milk. They are lower in fat, but any milk can be added.
Golden Milk is also vegan, paleo, gluten-free and offers comfort. The taste for it may take time to acquire. Keep in mind that Turmeric is found in many forms: dry powder, juice, and the raw root. Each form requires different preparations and the powder will be the most potent. Too much and the Golden milk will become orange and bitter to swallow. Start with smaller amounts and gradually increase them. For different recipes, check these links out:
https://www.thelittlepine.com/turmeric-milk-recipe-golden-milk/
https://minimalistbaker.com/5-minute-vegan-golden-milk/
https://dailyhealthpost.com/turmeric-ginger-golden-milk-drink-recipe/
Enjoy!