Written by Jamie Coppa
If beauty is only skin deep, then mark golden milk as the holy grail of any beauty and health regimen. On the surface level, this powerful drink can brighten, tighten, and add glow to the skin...but really, it does so much more than that. So what is “golden milk” and why does it work? I would like to share with you one of the best and widely spreading health secrets of the holistic community...
So what is golden milk? Simply put, golden milk is a little warmed up almond milk with turmeric root, ginger root, and honey added in.
Why it works: Turmeric root or “curcumin” is one of the best things you can consume for your health on a regular basis. Aside from reducing redness and blemishes on the skin surface, turmeric is a powerful anti-infammatory and anti-septic root proven for its benefits on a wide array of health issues. Studies show its effectiveness in treating chronic inflammation and pain for those with rheumatoid arthritis, reversing insulin resistance in diabetics, and even improving oxygen intake for the brain .... not to mention its ability to inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer cells! (Definitely worth noting.)
A very important and overlooked component of turmeric root is that it is fat soluble. Consuming your turmeric in a healthy source of fat, such as almond milk, allows the turmeric to be porperly absorped and used by the body. Ginger root is another added benefit to this already power packed drink. It improves digestion, aids in nutrient absorption, and has a nice warming effect on the body. The final ingredient, raw honey, contains natural antioxidants, enzymes and minerals including iron, zinc, potassium, calcium, phosphorous, magnesium, and selenium. My favorite health blogger, Olivia (@organic_olivia), has posted numerous times about the powerful effect of consuming a tablespoon of honey before bedtime to satiate the liver and vastly improve your sleep..
How it’s made: I personally recommend using fresh, raw turmeric, ginger root, and honey whenever possible. I think there’s something to be said for finding ingredients in their purest form. Sometimes that means finding a local bee farm, or making an effort to hit the farmer’s market on a Saturday morning. I can typically find these raw roots and quality sources of honey at the local health food store. If you’re unable to find them don’t worry, just grab some organic powdered turmeric and ginger from the spice section. It is better to consume this drink however best you can as opposed to not at all.
Here’s a simple step-by-step on how to make your own “golden milk”:
1. Start of by cutting about one inch of both turmeric and ginger root and blend together with two cups of almond milk. (If you’re using powdered root, go ahead and put almond milk, one to two tbsp. of both powdered turmeric and ginger root into small saucepan.)
2. Pour mixture into a small saucepan and put on low heat for about 5-7 minutes stirring occasionally. Notice the bright orange and yellow color being released into the milk.
3. When time is up, turn off heat and cover saucepan. Allow the mixture to sit for five or so minutes while the ginger root and turmeric become even more bioavailable, strengthening the benefit of your milk.
4. Strain the mixture with cheesecloth or a metal strainer until you are left with your colorful milk. (You can skip this step if you used powdered ingredients.)
5. Add one tablespoon of honey and stir.
Note: I like to put a little cinnamon and/or nutmeg in my milk for added benefit. In
Ayurveda, the spice of cinnamon aids in digestion and nutrient absorption. Nutmeg on the other hand, helps with insomnia and can improve cognitive function.
Alas, I love to have this delicious, powerful drink right before bed. During sleep our bodies are doing our deepest healing and restorative work, so do yourself a favor.... stop for these ingredients on your way home today. When you’re just about to take it down for the night, make yourself some “golden milk” and get some damn beauty sleep!
Sources:
http://draxe.com/turmeric-health-benefits/ http://draxe.com/the-many-health-benefits-of-raw-honey/ http://vedichealing.com/cinnamon-the-ancient-healing-spice/ https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/nutmeg.html
Photograph @jamiecoppamusic
Retouch @indigo_harvest