Golden Milk

Golden Milk (or Turmeric Milk) is so simple and effective, we couldn’t let January go by without a shout out. This cozy blend of turmeric and milk, plus a sweetener like maple syrup or honey, and the optional black pepper and other spices, is soothing before bed and boasts anti-inflammatory benefits, among others.

Golden Milk Ingredients

Turmeric: Turmeric is the star of this show so we recommend a high quality brand to access the many health benefits. At Seed + Oil, we carry turmeric from a company called Lahana Masala based out of Nepal. Their spices are hand ground and made to order, so they really are as fresh as it gets.

Milk: Anything goes here but the fat content in coconut milk is great for absorbing some of the turmeric’s healing compounds. Feel free to use your favorite dairy or non-dairy milk. Up the fat factor in nut milks by adding a spoonful of coconut oil!

Sweetener: Maple Syrup or honey, the choice is yours! Again, high quality ingredients really make a difference when using food for health benefits. Our raw honey and maple syrup are locally made in upstate NY, without added ingredients or preservatives. Plus, local bees make local honey. This means the pollen they collect and bring back to the hive is all sourced from local plants. And because many seasonal allergies are caused by these same plants, it’s believed that eating this honey can combat those allergies.

Extra Spices: Black pepper elevates turmeric to super couple status - it activates the curcumin in turmeric. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric, fighting inflammation and releasing antioxidants. While pairing black pepper and turmeric is always a good tip to remember, we suggest experimenting to suit your taste and needs. Cinnamon, ginger and cardamom are popular additions.

How to Make Golden Milk

Add everything to a saucepan over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Stir well and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure spices are distributed.

Makes 2 servings.

Game changer: Double batch and store in the fridge. As simple as this recipe is, there are days we just can’t muster up the energy. Just double the recipe and store in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat over the stove or microwave.

Benefits of Golden Milk

There are so many reported benefits to Golden Milk and the ingredients it contains but we must stress that we are not medical professionals. While we do believe in the healing properties of wholesome foods, they should not be used as an alternative to medications or treatment of serious illness. Those with serious conditions, pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a doctor.

That said, turmeric is good for you. It has been used for medicinal purposes for over 4,000 years. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is used for skin conditions, joint pain and allergies.

Medical studies show turmeric can:

Reduce Inflammation:
Inflammation is the body’s natural response to stress and infection, but it can wreak havoc on the body’s gut, joints and quality of sleep. Because the curcumin in turmeric helps reduce inflammation, it can greatly improve these risk factors.

Control Free Radicals:
Curcumin increases antioxidants in the body, and antioxidants help control free radicals in the body from environmental and behavioral factors like pollution. Over time, these damaging free radicals can build up in the body leading to chronic illnesses.

Healthy Skin:
Turmeric also has antimicrobial properties and research is showing promising results to improve acne, eczema and general signs of aging.

Excellent Nutritional Value:
Turmeric is high in Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, Manganese, Iron, Potassium, Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Dietary Fiber.

Many serious diseases are being linked to inflammation and gut health. We want to be mindful not to spread false information or any research still in its preliminary findings. If you’d like to learn more, we encourage you to read more on the benefits of turmeric and curcumin through reliable medical research studies.

Regardless, add the magic of Golden Milk to your life for a comforting and grounding beverage, adding beneficial nutrients your body loves! Stop by Seed + Oil for all your Golden Milk ingredients. (except the milk!)