Ayurvedic Herb: Turmeric (with Vegan Golden Milk Recipe)

A much talked about wonder herb, turmeric has many science-based health benefits—it’s loaded with antioxidants, and may reduce inflammation and joint pain, improve memory and brain function, protect against heart disease, lower blood sugar levels, improve digestion, just for starters! Lately, turmeric has come to the forefront of therapeutics for the role it plays in benefitting mental health and mood—especially anxiety. ⁠ 

Turmeric is a perennial grown throughout Asia with a signature, bright yellow color. Turmeric’s taste (rasa) is pungent, bitter, and astringent. Its energy (virya) is heating and it has dry and light qualities (gunas).⁠

Anxiety, or any other kind of stress, can tax agni (the digestive fire).  If agni is weak, we are sure to suffer all kinds of imbalances.  Fortunately, turmeric enkindles the digestive fire.  This action is known as “agni dīpana.”

Maintaining good digestive health is a major step in addressing anxiety or any other health concern.  Turmeric’s intrinsic nature enables it to elevate mood and increase cognitive function.

Everyone can benefit from the anti-inflammatory and high-antioxidant activity of golden milk. You can drink it anytime of the day, but try adding it to your bedtime to routine to wind down.  Try this simple to make vegan Golden Milk the next time you want a hug in a mug. ⁠ 
⁠ 
Golden Milk⁠ 
1 1/2 cups light coconut milk⁠ 
1 1/2 cups of unsweetened plain almond milk ⁠ 
1 1/2 tsp ground turmeric⁠ 
1/4 tsp ground ginger (see notes for fresh*)⁠ 
1 whole cinnamon stick (or 1/4 tsp of ground cinnamon)⁠ 
1 tbsp coconut oil⁠ 
1 pinch ground black pepper⁠ 
1 tbsp sweetener of choice (i.e. maple syrup)⁠

Instructions⁠ 
Simply mix all ingredients in a small saucepan or pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until fragrant and flavorful. Strain the drink through a fine strainer into mugs, leaving the cinnamon stick behind. ⁠