Golden milk, known as turmeric milk, is an Indian drink that is gaining popularity in Western cultures.
This bright yellow drink is traditionally made by heating cow or vegetable oil-based milk with turmeric and other spices such as cinnamon and ginger.
It is touted for its numerous health benefits and is often used as an alternative remedy to boost immunity and prevent disease.
In this article, we will look at 10 scientifically proven facts about the benefits of turmeric golden milk. We will also tell you the recipe for its preparation.
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Composition of golden milk
The drink recipe contains various components. An essential ingredient is a paste made from turmeric. In case of lactase deficiency, the way out is to replace cow's milk with soy or almond milk. The classic golden milk recipe calls for cow's milk. The chemical composition of the product contains:
- curcumin: polyphenol has disinfecting properties and fights cancer;
- B vitamins: normalize metabolism, have a beneficial effect on the central nervous system;
- ascorbic acid: strengthens blood vessels;
- calcium: required as a building material for bone and dental tissue.
Milk with turmeric contains a rich set of minerals. Potassium along with sodium are beneficial for the heart muscle. Magnesium and phosphorus have an anticonvulsant effect. If there is a lack of iodine, the endocrine system will not function properly. Zinc and selenium are involved in the prevention of hypothyroidism, increase antioxidant status, and compensate for the lack of microelements.
Dietary fiber, enzymes and essential amino acids in golden milk ensure normal digestion.
The spice is the leader in iron content. But milk reduces the absorption of turmeric. For iron deficiency anemia, turmeric is diluted not in milk, but in lukewarm water.
How is it useful?
The benefits of golden milk made from turmeric are due to the action of turmeric. Therefore, it has the same effect as curcumin, namely:
- has an antiseptic effect;
- prevents the development of prostate tumors or stops its growth;
- protects against cancer of the breast and respiratory system;
- serves as a prevention for the development of melanoma and can even destroy already formed malignant cells;
- reduces the risk of developing leukemia;
- slows down the growth of new blood vessels in any tumors;
- accelerates wound healing;
- has a cleansing effect, helps remove toxins from the liver;
- serves as a prevention for Alzheimer's disease, and the effect of turmeric on existing amyloid deposits in the brain is currently being studied;
- has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect without producing the side effects that non-steroidal drugs and glucocorticosteroids have;
- strengthens the immune system, helps recover from severe viral diseases;
- improves digestion (of course, if there is no lactose intolerance);
- effectively and quickly relieves pain;
- reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases - both due to the strengthening of vascular walls, and because it helps regulate the level of “bad” cholesterol;
- has a beneficial effect on joints, taken both for arthritis and arthrosis, due to its antioxidant properties;
- participates in lipid metabolism and helps reduce weight;
- eliminates the symptoms of psoriasis.
All of the properties listed above are based on the already studied effects of taking turmeric. However, research is ongoing, and it may turn out that golden milk slows the progression of multiple sclerosis - at least this is the hypothesis.
On a note! In Chinese medicine, turmeric-based drinks are used to treat depression, but this area has not yet been sufficiently explored in Western science.
However, one must understand that neither golden milk, nor even curcumin in its pure form replace complex therapy, but only increase its effectiveness and is an integral part of it, reducing side effects. And before you start taking this remedy on a regular basis, you should consult your doctor.
Health benefits of turmeric milk
What are the benefits of healing milk with turmeric? They drink golden milk for many body dysfunctions. The health benefits of a drink with turmeric are determined by the properties of the spice in combination with other components of the medicinal drink.
For coughs and colds
What else can turmeric milk help with? Hot milk with turmeric is a healing remedy for coughs and colds. Drink for a sore throat or ARVI. The antiviral and antibacterial properties of the spice protect against infections. The anti-inflammatory effect softens the symptoms of the pathology. A mug of the spiced drink before bedtime eases nighttime coughs and improves sleep quality.
Boosts immunity
Golden milk helps strengthen the immune system. The product is used for preventive purposes and in the treatment of infections, influenza, and colds. They drink the drink to recover quickly after an illness and cope with physical overload and fatigue.
Benefits for joints
Turmeric effectively treats pathologies of the musculoskeletal system. Golden tea is drunk for arthrosis and bursitis: it reduces inflammation, protects bones, relieves pain and increases joint mobility. The product is used for bone fractures, pain in ligaments and muscles.
The drink is drunk for rheumatoid arthritis. Compresses are combined with oral administration. For the composition you will need:
- turmeric – 1 tsp;
- red pepper – ½ tsp;
- ginger – 2 tsp.
The ingredients are mixed with tbsp. mustard oil, which is slightly heated. The result is a thick mixture, which is applied to a bandage and placed on the sore joint. Leave for 2 hours. The skin is treated in advance with a nourishing cream to relieve irritation from essential oils.
The warming properties of the compress are unsafe and require consultation with a doctor before use: the use of heat is prohibited for certain types of arthritis.
Remedy for digestive problems
Improved digestion, relief from flatulence, and heartburn due to gastric reflux - the benefits of milk with turmeric. The curcumin content in the spice stimulates bile flow and activates fat digestion. The substance protects and treats gastrointestinal disorders, gets rid of parasites. It is in demand in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases and protects the pancreas. The product will help with diarrhea and indigestion. Use a low-fat product so as not to complicate diarrhea.
Rice flour, milk and turmeric for hair removal
To determine how to properly prepare a hair removal product based on the “golden drink”, you need to understand how it acts on these places. Scientists have proven that the spice (if you add rice flour to it) can stop hair growth and also has a powerful antiseptic effect.
If used regularly, it will lead to a decrease in the intensity of hair follicle production. However, when applied, turmeric may temporarily stain the skin, so it is best to use it on covered areas of the body first.
The maximum effectiveness of the product is noticed when applied to the hair follicle. Therefore, it is better to use the product after each regular sugaring procedure, laser hair removal or other cosmetic procedures.
We recommend that you familiarize yourself with BZHU and calorie content of pumpkin
To create a paste for hair depilation, you need to thoroughly stir the turmeric and add water or milk, and also dilute it with rice flour. Then the finished composition should be applied to the problem area where hairs will need to be removed. After several procedures there will be a positive result.
How to make golden milk
First you will need to prepare the paste to make golden milk. Take 2 tbsp. l. turmeric powder, diluted with 250 ml of water, stirred to a pasty consistency. The composition is boiled over low heat, stirring systematically.
The process usually takes 7 minutes. A very thick mixture is diluted with liquid. On the contrary, if the mixture is liquid, you will need to add turmeric. After cooling, the product is transferred to a glass container. The shelf life of the prepared composition in the refrigerator is limited to a month.
The bioavailability of the spice increases when combined with fats or black pepper. The content of pepperine, the active ingredient in pepper, promotes the absorption of curcumin. It is advisable, but not necessary, to include 1 tsp. freshly ground spices. Add 70 ml of flaxseed or coconut oil to the paste or drink.
To make golden milk with turmeric, you need 1 tbsp. drink It is possible to replace cow's milk with goat's, almond or soy milk. They use various recipes to prepare the drink.
With ginger
In India, they use the remedy to treat throat, fever, and cough. It is useful to drink a cup of milk along with ginger and turmeric before going to bed - the manifestations of a cold in the morning are not so noticeable. It is possible that the disease will go away. Cooking technology:
- Add grated ginger root plus turmeric (1 tsp) to 50 ml of water and mix thoroughly.
- Add milk until full.
- Heating the mixture on the stove, without boiling.
- Infusion of the product for 5 minutes.
- Add granulated sugar to taste, warm up the drink. Filter the prepared mixture through a sieve.
- A warm welcome.
Can I drink milk with turmeric and honey?
Adding honey to the medicinal solution is possible in a slightly warm form. However, honey in hot milk with turmeric loses its healing properties and turns into a dangerous ingredient. When the product is heated to + 50...+60 °C, the vitamin and enzyme composition is destroyed and hydroxyl-furfural is formed. This element is the culprit of food poisoning and leads to serious consequences with constant consumption.
Saffron along with cardamom will add variety to the recipe for making golden milk from turmeric.
Contraindications and possible side effects
Absolute contraindications for drinking golden milk are:
- gastritis and peptic ulcers, since the essential oils contained in turmeric paste have a strong irritating effect on the mucous membrane, and milk does not always compensate for it;
- gallbladder diseases, especially if they are accompanied by the formation of stones;
- regular use of blood thinning medications;
- the presence of allergic reactions.
During pregnancy, you will also have to give up the golden drink, since the active components of turmeric can cause uterine contractions.
If you have lactose intolerance, drinking golden milk may be accompanied by flatulence and increased gas formation, as well as indigestion. In this case, you need to replace cow's milk with soy or almond milk. Possible side effects also include a noticeable decrease in blood sugar, allergic reactions, and in some cases, diarrhea.
It should also be noted that children under three years of age should not be given golden milk at all, since the digestive system of children may not yet be able to cope with such an amount of spice. And in the future, you need to start with small portions and monitor the reaction.
Application in cosmetology
General recommendations:
- Cleanse your skin first.
- Make masks and take baths in the evening - due to the inherent coloring effect of turmeric, the skin takes time (about two hours) to return to normal color.
If the skin is still stained, wipe it with citrus juice (you can mix it with kefir and oatmeal).
- To avoid staining your hands, use a cosmetic brush or rubber gloves when applying masks.
- If the skin is too light, take a pinch of turmeric, no more (otherwise the face will turn yellow).
A mask with turmeric improves skin condition and rejuvenates it - For blondes, turmeric is contraindicated as a hair product, even in combination with milk - the hair will turn yellow.
- When applying the mask, avoid the area around the eyes.
- After you wash off the mask with warm running water, lubricate your skin with a nourishing cream or gel.
Before starting the procedure, apply some turmeric mixture to the inside of your wrist. If the skin turns red and starts to itch, you should not apply a mask.
Face masks
Golden milk is a godsend for women who take care of their appearance. It improves the condition of the skin, rejuvenates it, promotes the healing of minor wounds and damage.
Toning and rejuvenating mask
- Dissolve a teaspoon of turmeric (or turmeric paste) in hot milk.
- Apply the resulting thick mixture to your face.
- Wash off after ten minutes.
- Use the mask 3-4 times a week.
For dry skin
You will need:
- turmeric - small spoon;
- powdered milk - a large spoon;
- some water.
Rinse off no later than twenty minutes. The mask moisturizes, nourishes, refreshes, and tightens the skin.
From wounds
Have to take:
- milk - a quarter of a mug;
- turmeric powder - half a teaspoon.
Make a solution, moisten a soft cloth with it, and apply to problem areas of the skin. After ten minutes, wash off.
Hair masks
The product can prevent hair loss, accelerate hair growth, and defeat dandruff.
For hair growth
Mask components:
- turmeric - one and a half teaspoons;
- milk or cream - three tablespoons;
- parsley (finely chopped) - a tablespoon;
- honey - one or two spoons;
- cinnamon - on the tip of a knife.
Mix everything and apply to damp hair roots. Wear a swimming cap. After about five minutes you will feel a tingling sensation, try to wait another three minutes and wash it off. The mask can be done once every eight days.
For dandruff and hair shine
You will need:
- turmeric - teaspoon;
- honey - the same amount;
- milk - a quarter of a mug.
Once combined, mix everything well. After washing your hair, apply the mixture to damp hair. After half an hour, wash your hair again with shampoo and rinse your hair with lemon water.
Golden milk baths
The secret of Cleopatra's beauty is the systematic taking of milk baths with yellow spices. Such procedures rejuvenate, cleanse, and moisturize the skin.
Rejuvenating bath
Have to take:
- honey - three hundred grams;
- milk - two liters;
- turmeric oil - five to six drops.
Baths with golden milk rejuvenate, cleanse and moisturize the skin
Combine honey with milk, and then add turmeric oil to the bath prepared for bathing. The recommended water temperature is thirty-eight degrees. After fifteen minutes, take a contrast shower, pat your skin dry with a towel and apply a moisturizing or nourishing body cream.
Cleansing
Take:
- cocoa (powder) - half a mug;
- golden milk - the same amount;
- cinnamon - half a teaspoon;
- bubble bath (unscented) - a mug.
Combine cocoa and milk and heat. Stir all the time, not allowing the mixture to boil. Throw in the cinnamon. When cool, combine with bubble bath and add to water. After about twenty minutes, you should take a shower, dry a little and apply cream to still damp skin.
You should take baths with the addition of turmeric no more than twice a month.
To enlarge the bust
To achieve this goal, two stages must be completed. First: Drink golden milk before dinner every day. The course is thirty days. The second is compresses. For these you will need the following:
- turmeric - teaspoon;
- vitamin E - the same amount (sold at the pharmacy);
- bandage.
The compress is made as follows:
- Fold and fold a piece of bandage.
- Soak it with turmeric mixed with vitamin.
- Then cut it in half and wrap the halves around the mammary glands.
- Wear a bra or top on top, otherwise the bandages will slip off.
- Keep it on for at least six hours, so it’s better to do compresses before going to bed.
- You should take a shower in the morning. Don't let orange-colored skin scare you - the paint washes off easily.
- The course is thirty days.
Golden milk not only enlarges breasts, but also tightens them
Don’t forget about exercises aimed at increasing your bust by strengthening and growing muscle tissue.
Application for weight loss
To lose weight, it is important to improve the body's metabolism and blood circulation, as well as dull the feeling of hunger. This is what golden milk does.
There is no reliable evidence that golden milk helps in the fight against excess weight. But the application to consolidate the effect is very successful. If you don’t want to return to your previous, overly curvaceous shape, this product will come in handy.
Golden milk for weight loss and control is prepared according to a standard recipe. You can add half a teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of black pepper. Drink a mug at night. The course lasts forty days.
When using not only this, but any traditional medicine for weight loss, do not forget to lead an active lifestyle (dancing, running, brisk walking, cycling), follow a daily and nutritional regimen. Before you start drinking golden milk, go to the sauna or bathhouse, if your health allows.