Most people from India are used to the many spices added to their food; but many might not realize the health benefits of one of them called Turmeric (also known as "Haldi" in India). Turmeric is great in food, but also has many health benefits. It can be used as an anti-inflammatory for people suffering from arthritis, joint pain, clear the skin, muscle pain & many other benefits. It also aids in digestion, works as an anti-parasitic, and anti-bacterial. Turmeric is currently being investigated in many studies for possible benefits in Alzheimer's disease, cancer, arthritis, and other clinical disorders. What the Ayurvedic tradition of India has known for thousands of years is just making it's rounds in modern medical "discoveries". ("It's not real unless it's been "proven'" is how it goes in western medicine).
I was first introduced to turmeric when I was a child, but it was in the form of a hot golden colored milk that we fondly call "Golden Milk". I had no cares about being "healthy" (who does as a young kid?) and just loved to drink this before going to sleep (though my mataji made it for me back then).
These days I drink it for other reasons. No, I'm not that old and don't have arthritis, but I do get a lot of inflammation in my wrists from the many long hours of work I spend on the computer every day. I have noticed dramatic improvements when my wrists start to hurt and I have golden milk or take curcumin capsules (concentrated extract from turmeric). So whether you have joint pain or work on the computer like me you will likely enjoy and benefit from this healing drink.
So, how do you make it? It's actually pretty fast and easy to make. Me and My wife Dr. Arjan Kaur Khalsa (who is a Doctor of Chiropractic) just produced the first video in a new series that she will be using on her website for her patients (and of course for any of you global online health seekers to enjoy!). In the video she talks about the benefits of Turmeric, various oils and how to make this drink yourself in your home. Watch the below video and see! Or if you are in a rush just read the recipe below the video (though you'll be missing my wife's smiley charm and her talking about interesting stuff).
Turmeric "paste" Recipe
This version of the recipe is meant to make a small amount of turmeric paste that you can store in the refrigerator and use every day for a few weeks which makes it quick and easy to have on a regular basis. I sometimes use it in fruit shakes or with apple juice if I am in a hurry and don't want to drink it hot. Just take a small spoonful and add to whatever you like! (though start small if you are not used to it because it can be bitter in larger quantities).
Instructions: Take 1/4 cup turmeric powder, mix with 1/2 cup pure water and simmer over medium-high heat for at least 7 minutes, stirring constantly. You will notice a thick paste form. If it get’s too dry while cooking you can add additional water. Once cooled, put into a glass jar and put in fridge. This is good for a few weeks to one month. If you are not familiar with Turmeric or where to get it, you should be able to purchase the powder from health food stores, Indian spice stores or other places online.
Making Golden Milk
Add 1 tsp of the turmeric paste to 1 cup. hot milk (cow, goat, soy, rice, almond, or any combination), maple syrup or honey to taste and 1/2 tsp. of almond or sesame oil. Gently heat and stir and then Enjoy!
Disclaimer
The above information is from ancient ayurvedic tradition. Nothing in this article or video should be construed as medical advice. The recipe has naturally occurring ingredients which have traditionally been used to support the structure and function of the human body for thousands of years. Always check with your personal physician or licensed health care practitioner before making any significant modification in your diet or lifestyle, to insure that the ingredients or lifestyle changes are appropriate for your personal health condition and consistent with any medication you may be taking.
