Golden Milk: The Secret of Turmeric

By: Jane Ross

Golden Milk already has quite the name to live up to. It is really liquid gold? Well, after I’ve made it a few times, I can say with confidence that it is.

So, what is Golden Milk? Why is it so special? Well, it’s most powerful ingredient is turmeric, which gives Golden Milk it’s signature yellow color. Turmeric has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, as it holds tons of scientifically-proven health benefits. The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help our bodies with anything from fighting off toxins in our liver, to healing the joint pain in our knees. Curcumin has also been proven to reduce the risk of heart disease, and improve memory and brain function. What can’t it do, right?

While there is plenty of research on the benefits of turmeric in one’s diet, much of it has been centered on participants who take specific doses on a consistent basis. So, while Golden Milk may not demonstrate the dramatic shifts as noted in some studies, I have found it to help with some of my own joint pain post-workout, stress relief, and digestion.

In addition to the health benefits of Golden Milk, I’ve also found that it simply tastes delicious. With the fall and winter months ahead, the cold weather will beg us to get some comfort in a Starbucks latte (possibly chai or pumpkin spice). While I love coffee as much as you (probably), you can ditch the caffeine and added sugars, and get some warm deliciousness with real health benefits.

This is the way I like to make my own Golden Milk, though everyone has their own variations. Play around, and see what works best for you!

Golden Milk

• 1 ½ cups Almond, Coconut, or Whole Milk

• 1 Tbsp Turmeric

• ⅛ Tsp Ground Ginger

• ⅛ Tsp Ground Cinnamon

• ⅛ Tsp Ground Black Pepper

• ¼ Tsp Vanilla Extract

• 1 Tsp Coconut Oil

• 1 Tsp Honey (or to taste)

Whisk all ingredients in saucepan until spices, coconut oil, and honey are sufficiently dissolved, and warm over high heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Serve in mugs, and enjoy!