There’s nothing like a nice hot beverage first thing in the morning to warm up and prepare you for a new day.
Many opt for coffee or tea to get a jolt of wakefulness and although these have their own host of beneficial properties, sometimes it’s nice to go for something a little more colorful. Some people might recommend a good blend of coconut milk and turmeric.
Have you ever heard of golden milk?
The star of this healing drink is turmeric, a rhizome in the ginger family that gives it a lovely golden hue.
A traditional Ayurvedic drink, golden milk has been enjoyed for millennia not only for its characteristically soothing warmth but for its ability to manage inflammation, improve the function of the digestive tract, and liver support.
Turmeric is a spice studied extensively and has been found to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
So how does coconut milk and turmeric make such a good combination?
Turmeric’s potential includes:
Antiseptic – turmeric kills harmful bacteria and speeds healing for cuts and superficial burns (1).
Analgesic – the antioxidants in turmeric reduce swelling and relieve pain. It’s especially helpful for easing the joints of arthritis sufferers.
Boosts immunity – the phytochemical curcumin in turmeric see to that.
Anti-carcinogenic – one study showed a combination of turmeric and black pepper inhibited breast cancer cell growth by fifty percent.
Promotes digestive health – a healthy gut is critical for all bodily functions. Turmeric stimulates the gall bladder to release bile, which is necessary to break down fats.
Liver detoxifier – in a study of induced liver damage in rats, curcumin supplementation was found to increase the amount of glutathione (the “master antioxidant”) enzymes, significantly reducing free radical damage.
Regulates metabolism and weight management – turmeric changes fat cells from passive to active, which your body will burn easier for energy.
High blood pressure – the Journal of Hypertension reported that a curcumin supplement combined with regular aerobic exercise improved heart function and increased muscle stress tolerance.
Memory, brain function, and neurological disorders – the Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology published a study that showed turmeric to improve memory in patients with Alzheimer’s disease:
“Due to various effects of curcumin, such as decreased Beta-amyloid plaques, delayed degradation of neurons, metal-chelation, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and decreased microglia formation, the overall memory in patients with AD has improved.”
Various skin conditions – the fatty acids in turmeric protect against radiation damage; it’s also effective in treating psoriasis, vitiligo, and skin cancer.
Lowers triglycerides – curcumin regulates low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the liver, blocks its absorption in the digestive system, and prevents oxidation in arterial linings, guarding against cardiovascular disease and hypertension.
So what are the ingredients to the wonderful coconut milk and turmeric solution?
Golden Milk
If you don’t want to eat curry every day to get your dose of turmeric, drink this instead!
Ingredients:
Turmeric Paste
- 1/4 cup turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, ground
- 1/2 cup filtered water
Golden Milk
- 1 cup coconut milk (hemp is a good alternative)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (virgin)
- 1/4 teaspoon (or more) turmeric paste
- Honey (raw, unpasteurized, and local if you can get it)
Instructions:
To make the turmeric paste, place the turmeric, pepper, and water in a small saucepan and mix well over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the mixture is a thick paste.
Allow the mixture to cool before using and store in the refrigerator.
To make the milk, combine all ingredients except honey in a saucepan and cook on medium, stirring constantly until hot. Do not allow to boil.
Add honey to taste and enjoy!