Turmeric milk, also known as golden milk, is a delicious and healthy beverage that has been enjoyed for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. Made by blending turmeric, a spice commonly used in Indian cooking, with milk, it is a great way to incorporate the many benefits of turmeric into your diet. In this article, you will learn about the benefits of taking turmeric and its best uses.

Overview of the Benefits of Turmeric

One of the main benefits of turmeric is its anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a natural response of the body to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can lead to a host of health problems, including heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has been shown to reduce inflammation in the body.

In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric has been found to have a number of other health benefits. Some studies have suggested that turmeric may be able to fight cancer by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. It may also be able to improve brain function by increasing the levels of a chemical called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which helps to promote the growth of new neurons.

Turmeric milk is also a good source of other nutrients, including calcium, potassium, and vitamin D. Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth, while potassium helps to regulate blood pressure and maintain healthy heart function. Vitamin D is important for maintaining healthy levels of calcium in the blood.

Additional Remedies Using Turmeric

Turmeric is a versatile spice that can be used in many different ways to promote health and wellness. Here are a few additional remedies that use turmeric:

• Turmeric paste: Mix turmeric powder with a little water or oil to create a paste. This can be applied topically to the skin to help with conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne. It can also be used as a natural remedy for minor cuts and burns.
• Turmeric tea: Mix turmeric powder with hot water to create a tea. This can help to soothe sore throats, relieve congestion, and reduce inflammation. You can also add other ingredients such as ginger, honey, or lemon to enhance the flavor and benefits.
• Turmeric supplements: Turmeric supplements can be taken in capsule form to provide a concentrated dose of curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric. These supplements can be helpful for conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other inflammatory conditions.
• Turmeric for oral health: Mixing turmeric powder with coconut oil or mustard oil and using it as a mouthwash can help to prevent tooth decay and gingivitis by fighting off bacteria and reducing inflammation in the mouth.
• Turmeric as a hair treatment: Mixing turmeric powder with yogurt or coconut oil can be used as a hair mask to strengthen hair, reduce dandruff, and improve hair growth.

Best Time to Drink turmeric Milk

Turmeric milk is a great addition to your diet at any time of day. Here are a few suggestions for when it may be especially beneficial to drink turmeric milk:

In the morning: Drinking turmeric milk in the morning can help to start your day off on a healthy note by providing a boost of anti-inflammatory compounds and other nutrients. It can also be a great way to warm up on a cold morning.

Before bed: Turmeric milk can be a great way to unwind before bedtime as it has a calming effect and may help to promote better sleep. It is also believed that turmeric can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can help to improve sleep.

After a workout: Drinking turmeric milk after a workout can help to reduce inflammation and muscle soreness. Additionally, the carbohydrates and proteins present in the milk can help to replenish the energy and nutrients used during the workout.

When feeling under the weather: Turmeric has natural anti-inflammatory properties, and drinking turmeric milk can help to boost the immune system and reduce symptoms of colds, flu, and other illnesses.

Note: It’s also important to keep in mind that drinking turmeric milk is a moderate amount, like any other food. Consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or are taking medication.

Easy Turmeric Milk Recipe

To make turmeric milk, you will need:

• 1 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy).
• 1 tsp of turmeric powder
• 1 tsp of honey or sweetener of your choice (optional)
• A pinch of black pepper (to enhance the absorption of turmeric)

Instructions:

• Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat.
• Add turmeric powder, and black pepper.
• Whisk everything together and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
• Strain the milk using a fine mesh strainer.
• Add honey (optional)
• Serve hot and enjoy!

You can also customize your turmeric milk by adding other spices like cinnamon, ginger, or cardamom. You can also use coconut milk, almond milk, or soy milk instead of cow’s milk.

Turmeric Milk Side Effects

Turmeric milk is generally considered safe to consume when consumed in moderate amounts. However, like with any food or beverage, there are a few potential side effects to be aware of. Here are a few things to consider:

Stomach upset: Consuming large amounts of turmeric can cause stomach upset, nausea, or diarrhea. To avoid this, start with a small amount of turmeric and gradually increase your intake.

Interaction with medications: Turmeric can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and blood-sugar-lowering medications. If you are taking any medications, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before consuming turmeric milk.

Allergies: Some people may be allergic to turmeric or to the ingredients used in turmeric milk, such as milk or honey. If you experience any allergic reactions, stop consuming turmeric milk and talk to your healthcare provider.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There is not enough information to know if turmeric is safe to consume during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so it’s best to avoid consuming turmeric milk during these times or consult your healthcare professional.

Excessive consumption: Consuming excessive amounts of turmeric can lead to indigestion, upset stomach, and other gastrointestinal issues.

It’s always important to talk to your healthcare provider before consuming any new food or beverage, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

Conclusion

Turmeric milk, also known as “golden milk,” has numerous benefits for overall health and well-being. It has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate pain and soreness in the body. It also contains antioxidants, which can help protect the body against damage from free radicals. Additionally, turmeric milk is said to have a positive impact on brain health, helping to improve memory and cognitive function. Furthermore, it is known to have potential benefits for skin and digestive health. Therefore, drinking turmeric milk regularly can be a great addition to a healthy lifestyle.

Turmeric is a spice that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It contains curcumin, which is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound.

The spice is also easily accessible and can be added to food, taken as a supplement, or used topically. Overall, turmeric offers a wide range of health benefits.

Read about more best herbs and spices for your health

Featured Image: Photo by Karolina Grabowska