Turmeric, despite its slightly bitter odor, possesses remarkable qualities that can elevate any beverage to a super drink, making it a longtime favorite in various traditional remedies. Your grandmother’s insistence on drinking turmeric milk or golden milk before bedtime stems from its diverse health benefits. If you’re curious about what makes it so wholesome, you’ll be pleased to discover the numerous advantages of turmeric milk.
Health Benefits of Turmeric Milk:
1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Derived from the Curcuma longa plant’s roots, turmeric, a yellow spice, contains the active ingredient curcumin. When combined with milk, it intensifies their health-enhancing properties. Turmeric milk is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, helping ward off issues like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory attributes can reduce bodily inflammation and lower the risk of such ailments. A study published in the Alternative Medicine Review found that curcumin’s anti-inflammatory effects can mitigate joint pain and inflammation.
2. Rich in Antioxidants: Antioxidants are essential for combatting free radicals that can harm cells and contribute to chronic diseases. Turmeric, thanks to curcumin, is a potent antioxidant, promoting overall health and slowing down the aging process. It also lowers the risk of conditions like cancer and heart disease.
3. Immunity Booster: Turmeric milk is particularly beneficial if you’re prone to frequent illnesses. Its immunomodulatory properties enhance the immune system and fortify the body’s defenses against infections and illnesses.
4. Digestive Aid: Turmeric milk can alleviate digestive issues like indigestion and bloating. It stimulates bile production in the liver, ensuring the proper digestion of fats.
5. Brain Health: Regular consumption of turmeric milk may contribute to brain health. Curcumin has been linked to the promotion of brain health and may delay or reverse brain and age-related diseases. Research published in the journal Neuropeptides suggests that curcumin can increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, facilitating the growth of brain cells.
6. Wound Healing: Turmeric’s antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-allergic properties are known to expedite wound healing and combat various infections, including bacterial and viral infections.
7. Heart Health: Heart disease remains a leading global cause of death. The key ingredient in turmeric milk, turmeric, can help lower the risk of heart disease. Studies have shown that curcumin improves endothelial function, a vital aspect of heart health. Drinking turmeric milk may also reduce risk factors like cholesterol and blood pressure associated with heart disease.
8. Mood Improvement: Turmeric milk, in addition to promoting brain health, can positively influence mental well-being. Curcumin has been found to have antidepressant effects and may reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.