Golden Milk: Restorative Turmeric

While on the search for stomach mending concoctions over the years, I’ve found variations of golden milk and the astounding restorative benefits of turmeric are among my favorite go-to recipes. I’m mentioning that because my stomach doesn’t like me right now. For one reason or another, about one-quarter of the time it feels out of balance, uneasy and upset. Most of us know by now that medical research has found the majority of illnesses start and manifest in the gut. Mine seems to be screaming for some love and serious care as of late.

I’m not one to run to the doctor or pharmacy for a quick fix. I would rather do some research and try and heal the issue rather then simply cover it up. It’s sad that our culture is taught to treat symptoms once they arrive, instead of taking care all along the way to nurture ourselves. We owe it to ourselves to slow down and be mindful of what our bodies are trying to tell us.

30 Centuries of Mindful Medicine

For over 3,000 years Ayuredic medicine has been used in India to promote a healthy and balanced mind, body and soul. During that time, turmeric has played an important role in many herbal Ayurvedic treatments and recipes. Its high levels of the bioactive compound curcumin, is one of the most powerful anti-oxidants known to man. The anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antimicrobial components of this bright orange root are said to help in the healing and health of your liver, stomach and gut.  The addition of black pepper reportedly increases the absorption of curcumin by close to 2,000 percent.

Turmeric for the Tummy

Along the way, I have found a few recipes that aide in the healing of our digestive system, and “Golden Milk” has quickly become one of my favorites. The base of this warm and soothing beverage is easy to make and can be concocted by using fresh turmeric or the powdered variety. This simple immunity-boosting and restorative recipe has helped calm my uneasy digestive tract day in and day out and is also a cozy beverage to promote a dreamy night’s rest.

Restorative Golden Milk 

1 cup coconut milk

1/2 tsp. ground turmeric

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp. vanilla

1/2 Tbs. honey

Dash of black pepper

Note: I prefer to use fresh turmeric whenever possible. If you would like to as well, substitute 

half of a nub of finely grated turmeric for the ground form.

Pour coconut milk in a small saucepan over medium-high heat.  Add turmeric, cinnamon and black pepper and vanilla.  Bring to boil while stirring occasionally until mixture is smooth. Turn heat to low and let simmer for 3-5 minutes. Transfer mixture to your favorite mug & add honey or sweetener of choice.

A simple turmeric paste is also easy to make and can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Turmeric Paste

1/2 cup filtered water

1/4 cup organic turmeric powder

1/2 tsp ground black pepper

1/2 tsp cinnamon

Combine all ingredients in saucepan over medium-high heat until water and spices turn into a thick paste. Pour into a small glass resealable container and store. Simply add 1/2-1 tsp. of paste to hot coconut or almond milk; or water for a lighter turmeric tea.

As with any recipe, it’s fun to make different variations of golden milk.  Our favorite addition is tummy settling ginger!