Golden milk, also known by the Sanskrit name “haldi doodh,” has gained popularity in the Western world in recent years as a wellness and relaxation drink thanks to its association with Ayurvedic medicine. This recipe bases its benefits on turmeric, a spice revered for its potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, among other qualities. Learning how to prepare this drink can be the first step to incorporating ancient wellness techniques into your daily life.
Turmeric and Wellness
Turmeric, known for its bright yellow color, is a mainstay of traditional Indian and Chinese medicine. In Ayurveda, turmeric is believed to have the ability to cleanse and warm the body, making it especially valuable for treating inflammation, improving digestive health, and supporting detoxification. Vegan golden milk combines these benefits with the soothing and nourishing properties, creating a potion that provides a feeling of well-being on a physical and mental level.
Making Vegan Golden Milk
Today, it has evolved to fit a variety of diets, including vegetarian and vegan. Here’s an adaptation of this simple drink if you’re looking to incorporate new vegan recipes into your daily routine.
More Recipes
The versatility of this drink allows it to be tailored to different tastes or dietary needs. Here are some variations you can explore:
- Vanilla Twist: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the base recipe for a sweet and aromatic twist.
- Natural Sweeteners: If you prefer a slightly sweeter drink, consider adding agave honey, agave syrup, or maple syrup. If you choose, you can also make this recipe sugar-free or without other sweeteners.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cardamom or ground cloves for a richer tasting experience with greater depth of flavor.
- Cold Version: For warm days, allow the vegan golden milk to cool and serve over ice. This refreshing version is just as nutritious and satisfying.
Why Turmeric?
Turmeric has caught the attention of the scientific community for its active component, curcumin, which has been associated with numerous health benefits. From fighting oxidative stress to reducing inflammation, turmeric in its various forms (including vegan golden milk) delivers results that back up its reputation in natural medicine.
Golden milk benefits
Vegan golden milk has multiple benefits in both its traditional and vegan versions. It is said to help relax the body; as its ingredients are anti-inflammatory, it helps with a better digestive system and is perfect to drink before going to sleep.
- Anti-inflammatory: Curcumin has been shown to be a powerful anti-inflammatory, which can help relieve pain and inflammation in the body.
- Antioxidant: Turmeric is rich in antioxidants, which can help fight free radicals and protect against cell damage.
- Improves digestion: Turmeric has traditionally been used to improve digestive health, as it can help stimulate bile production and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Promotes healthy skin: Turmeric also has benefits for the skin, as its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce acne and improve the overall appearance of the skin.
- Boosts immunity: Some studies have suggested that curcumin may have a positive effect on the immune system, helping to fight off illness and infection.
- Supports mental health: In addition to physical benefits, turmeric may also have mental health benefits. It has been shown to help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, and may improve brain function.
- Golden milk for cramps: If you suffer from menstrual cramps or stomach pains, golden milk can be your ally. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve pain and discomfort in these areas. Adding a little ginger can also provide a soothing effect on the stomach.
- Golden milk for skin: Regular consumption of golden milk can help improve the health of your skin. Turmeric is a powerful antioxidant that helps fight free radicals and promotes radiant, healthy skin. Coconut milk also contains fatty acids that nourish and moisturize the skin, leaving it soft and glowing.
Golden Milk Side Effects
Although golden milk may provide numerous health benefits, it is important to be aware of some potential contraindications before incorporating it into your diet.
- Drug Interaction: The curcumin in turmeric may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and diabetes medications. If you are on any medications, it is important to consult with your doctor before consuming golden milk.
- Allergic Reactions: Some people may be allergic to turmeric and experience symptoms such as hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any allergic reaction after consuming golden milk, stop consuming it immediately and consult a doctor.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is not enough scientific evidence to determine whether turmeric is safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended that pregnant or breastfeeding women avoid consuming golden milk.
- Gallbladder Problems: Turmeric may stimulate the gallbladder to contract, so people with gallbladder problems should avoid consuming vegan golden milk or consult their doctor before doing so.
- Clotting Problems: The curcumin in turmeric has been shown to have antiplatelet properties, which can affect blood clotting. If you have any blood clotting disorders, it is important to check with your doctor before consuming golden milk.
In addition to these potential contraindications, it is important to remember that vegan golden milk or not, is not a substitute for medical treatment.
If you are looking to use it as part of a therapeutic regimen for a specific condition, always consult a doctor before starting. It is also important to remember that golden milk is not a miracle drink and may not be effective for everyone.
**Although turmeric has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, there is not enough scientific evidence to claim that it can cure or prevent disease. It’s always best to follow a balanced diet and consult a doctor before adding any supplements or foods to your daily routine.
Enjoying Golden Milk
Vegan golden milk can be enjoyed at any time, but many prefer to drink it before bed to take advantage of its relaxing properties that help prepare the body for a restful night’s sleep. Experiment with the proportions of spices to adjust the flavor to your liking, and feel free to add your own personal touch with other ingredients, such as lemon zest or vanilla.
Additional Consumption Tips
If you want to intensify the benefits of vegan golden milk, consider mixing it with canned coconut milk to increase the presence of healthy fats, which, according to Ayurvedic medicine, improve the absorption of the spices.
Black pepper is combined with turmeric not only for flavor but to increase the bioavailability of the turmeric, meaning the body is better able to absorb its benefits.
If you are worried about staining your utensils with the turmeric pigment, use silicone or stainless steel kitchen utensils for preparation.
When is it recommended to drink golden milk?
Vegan golden milk can be taken at any time of the day, but many prefer to consume it before bed due to its relaxing properties and the help it provides for a better quality of sleep. It can also be drunk in the morning to start the day with energy and health benefits. In addition, it is an excellent option to consume after a session.
