Turmeric is that brightly colored root herb that is orange under its skin. In its raw form it resembles fresh ginger and can be purchased in the produce section of the grocery store. It is the ingredient that gives commercially prepared and sold mustard products their distinctive color. The secret to turmeric’s amazing healing and anti-inflammatory properties lies in its active ingredient, which is curcumin. It also contains beneficial antioxidants.
Inflammation is involved in many health problems, such as ulcers, sinusitis (sinus infections) and other respiratory infections, asthma, heart disease, irritable bowel syndrome and disease (IBS and IBD), osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Any condition that includes “-itis” in its name involves inflammation, and because inflammation leads to so much pain, it can be extremely debilitating. Turmeric has been found to be more powerful than prescription and over-the-counter medications for many people who take it.
How to make turmeric milk
As its name implies, turmeric milk is simply a combination of turmeric plus milk. People who have sensitivities to dairy can still enjoy the benefits by using almond or coconut milk.
Ingredients in turmeric milk:
- Between one and two teaspoons of minced fresh turmeric or ground/powdered turmeric
- Two cups of milk (dairy, coconut or almond)
To start, mix the ingredients together. If you are just starting out with turmeric, you may want to use the lesser amount of turmeric initially then build up to more as your taste for it develops. This recipe makes one serving of the drink, simply adjust the recipe if you would like to make more than one serving. Be sure to use only organic ingredients when making turmeric milk. The beverage has a warming flavor that is rather rich and complex, so it is typically better to enjoy it in between meals rather than with meals.
Extra ingredients to consider including are a bit of raw (preferably local) honey, a dab of coconut oil or dash of ginger. Each of those ingredients packs its own powerful healing punch, so when you add them, you turn a powerhouse into a superhero.
A delicious beverage that helps with a variety of health issues
As is the case with many healing foods, turmeric does not just help with one type of symptom or condition. In addition to helping to cut down on inflammation, it is also beneficial for the liver and can help to treat Alzheimer’s and cancer. So when you drink turmeric milk, you will know that you are doing so much more than just helping your body to deal with inflammation. And you will be savoring a delectable drink in the process. (Related: This Is What Happens When You start Drinking Turmeric Golden Milk Regularly.)
Although turmeric is safe for many people, there are some who should avoid it until consulting with a health practitioner. This includes people who are taking blood thinner medications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), drugs that reduce stomach acid, diabetes medication or medications for deep vein thrombosis. Pregnant women and people who have problems with gallstones should also not consume turmeric.
You can drink turmeric milk occasionally when a health issue arises, or you can make it part of your daily routine to receive maximum benefits in assistance with inflammation and other ailments. Relax and enjoy!
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