It seems only fitting for the first day of fall, and the first day of this little blog that we make a warm, soothing, anti-inflammatory and immune boosting turmeric tea. Traditionally known as "golden milk", this is one of the most simple and worthwhile recipes to make for yourself and your loved ones as we head into those chilly winter months. This tea, based with coconut milk and starring the ever powerful turmeric is creamy, flavorful, and sure to warm your bones and calm your spirit.
So what is so great about turmeric? Well, if you’ve lived under a rock for the past few years, lets get you acquainted with this super-spice. To borrow the words of Sarah Vance, Nutritionist and author,
“With a rich history in Ayurvedic medicine, tumeric is one of the most revered roots. Tumeric is an incredibly powerful anti-inflammatory & antioxidant herb. It has been shown to detoxify the liver, assist in the removal of mucus, lower cholesterol, help to manage weight, treat IBS, provide iron, and and is a wonderful herbal remedy for the treatment of stiff, sore, arthritic, or inflamed joints. Studies suggest it could be useful in preventing cancers, heart disease, type 2 diabetes. It is also a digestive tonic, antiseptic, antiparasitic, astringent, pain reliever, blood purifier, wound healer, kidney-stone dissolver, eczema treatment, and more.”
Many of these health benefits come from the curcumin (the principal curcuminoid of turmeric).
(WellnessMama wrote a wonderful and comprehensive article on the health benefits of curcumin that you can read here.)
We do have to remember, however, that the curcumin content of turmeric is not that high… it’s around 3%, by weight. Additionally, research shows us that curcumin is poorly absorbed into the bloodstream. So what do we do? We make sure to add a dash of black pepper, which contains piperine… a natural substance that enhances the absorption of curcumin by 2000%” (Science!)
In a quick internet search, you'll find plenty of variations to this recipe. This particular version appealed to me as both the tastiest, and boasting the most nutritional benefits.
So whether you already know and love the perks of incorporating "golden milk" into your diet regime or you’d prefer to read some evidence-based research, the proof is in the pudding. Or technically... tea in our case.
Ingredients
1 (16oz) can of regular or light coconut milk (use full can of milk and fill-up once more with water to make 1:1 ratio)
-OR-
3 cups of homemade coconut milk
1 tbsp turmeric (fresh ground or powdered)
1 tbsp cinnamon
1 two-finger pinch of finely ground black pepper (more if desired)
1 teaspoon raw honey or maple syrup or to taste
1" cube of fresh, peeled ginger root or ¼ tsp ginger powder
small pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
1. Blend all ingredients together in a high speed blender until smooth/frothy.
2. Pour into a small sauce pan and heat for 3-5 minutes over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
3. Drink immediately.
Makes 3-4 servings. Or 2 big ol' servings if you'd like. Go on, we won't hold it against you.
This soothing blend works wonderfully before bed, in the morning in the place of coffee, or literally anytime in between.
Make, drink, and share it often.
Go on, nourish yourself.
-B