Golden Milk, also called Golden Tea, has been all over the internet lately, announcing its many health benefits including better sleep, reduced inflammation and improved digestion.
Once again, it comes back to the gut. Poor bedtime digestion can lead to reflux, heartburn or interrupted sleep. Golden milk has 6 ingredients, depending on which recipe you use, and each ingredient has huge health benefits. The warming effect of the turmeric and the ginger both can help to promote restful sleep. But this drink also helps to encourage good digestion.
One ingredient in Golden Milk is Ginger
The health benefits of this milk come, of course, from the amazing properties of its ingredients. Ginger is a powerful anti-inflammatory and has long been used to promote good digestion and prevent nausea and heartburn. I have fond memories of my grandmother giving me and my sisters ginger ale when we were sick. I always thought it was the bubbles that made us feel better : ) You could use ginger powder but you could also use fresh ginger if you prefer. I believe the powdered version is more potent but I also love the idea of putting real, unprocessed food in my body. At the farm store, you can purchase a high end version of ginger powder that may give you a bigger bang for your buck.
Coconut milk contains healthy medium-chain, more easily digested fats. It also has antimicrobial properties which can prevent stomach or digestive upset from bacteria.
Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient
Turmeric also has potent anti-inflammatory properties which are said to soothe the lining of the digestive tract. It may even help prevent the formation of ulcers. A comprehensive summary of turmeric benefits studies was published by James A. Duke, Phd., in the October, 2007 issue of Alternative & Complementary Therapies. It was summarized in the July, 2008 issue of the American Botanical Council publication, HerbClip. Dr. Duke concluded that turmeric appears to outperform many pharmaceuticals in its effects against several chronic, debilitating diseases. And it does so with virtually no adverse side effects. Dr. Weil, well known Naturopathic doctor of medicine, claims that turmeric has properties that may benefit Alzheimers, Cancer and Arthritis.
Black pepper is added to enhance the body’s absorption of the curcumin in the turmeric.
Honey sweetens the Golden Milk
Honey not only gives this drink a wonderful flavour, it contains several enzymes, amino acids, vitamins and minerals. These properties may all help to improve digestion and soothe irritation in the digestive tract. There is a lot of honey made by our neighbours here in the valley. I like to spend my money where I live as much as possible.
So, if you are having any challenges with sleep, you may want to give this drink a try. It tastes delicious and may help you sleep better 🙂