Tumeric lattes are rising in popularity. This new coffee alternative has actually been around for centuries, long before it appeared on your local coffee shop menu. Haldi Doodh is the Indian name for traditional turmeric milk, or what we know now as a turmeric latte or golden latte.
Turmeric has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. In Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric is thought to help with digestion and flatulence, dissolving gallstones, regulating the menstrual cycle, and relieving arthritis. In some parts of the world, turmeric is used as an antiseptic and applied to a cloth, and placed on wounds and burns. The mix of turmeric and warm milk in a turmeric latte is often prescribed to treat intestinal discomfort, colds and sore throats.
Turmeric is bright yellow in colour, thanks to the compounds: curcuminoids (curcuminoids are to turmeric what chlorophyll is to spinach). In some studies, curcumin has been shown to help inflammatory conditions and pain. However, the bioavailability to the body is best enhanced (by as much as 2000%) by piperine – a major active enhancer found in black pepper.
Some modern research suggests that the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of curcumin can help manage pain. Particularly that associated with arthritis, and exercise-induced muscle soreness, as well as symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome.
Traditional Haldi Doodh Recipe
This turmeric latte can be made in minutes and sipped on at any time of the day, but is ideal an hour or so before bedtime (to help with inflammation caused by the activities of the day).
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of milk of your choice
- 1/4 tsp of Kintra turmeric blend
- 1 tsp honey (more or less to taste)
Method:
- Heat milk gently on the stove, in a milk pan or small saucepan.
- Add turmeric blend and mix well with a whisk, fork or spoon.
- Remove from heat and stir in honey.
- Pour into your favourite mug.
- Optional – sprinkle with cinnamon.
