Golden milk, also known as turmeric milk, is an ancient Ayurvedic drink known for its anti-inflammatory properties and therapeutic benefits. Originating in India, it has been and still is used to aid various ailments, including colds, coughs, inflammation, aches, pains, and restlessness. It is also wonderfully warming on a cold day.
Fresh Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 1 inch of sliced fresh turmeric root
- ½ inch of sliced fresh ginger root
- 1/2 stick cinnamon
- 1-3 pods cardamom
- A pinch of black pepper
- 1/4 tsp of coconut oil or ghee
- optional: ½ tablespoon of maple syrup or honey
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 3/4 tsp ground turmeric powder
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- A pinch of cardamom
- A pinch of black pepper
- 1/4 tsp of coconut oil (or ghee)
- optional: ½ tablespoon of maple syrup or honey
Directions
Choose if you would like to go with fresh ingredients or with dry ones. Mix milk, ghee and the spices in a small saucepan and stir until it starts simmering. Strain into serving mugs, add sweetener if desired and enjoy!
Golden Milk has been used for centuries to aid various ailments, including colds, coughs, inflammation, and restlessness. The traditional recipe for Golden Milk, which originated in India, is simple and consists of milk infused with turmeric. Turmeric is being valued for its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxydating properties, and for its earthy fragrance as a spice. The other spices add to the flavor and have additional health benefits:
- Ginger root is great for digestion, it also adds some zing,
- Cinnamon, a warming spice that helps control blood sugar,
- Black pepper increases bioavailability of turmeric’s healing properties.
This drink has been used as a nourishing tonic and is said to naturally help maintain the body’s essential energy, known as “ojas” in Sanskrit. Golden Milk has been a popular bedtime drink in India, often made by mothers to soothe their children. While the exact date of its creation is unknown, Golden Milk has been a part of Indian culture for thousands of years, and now we can benefit from it as well!