Sometimes referred to as “the Goddess of Life,” Tumeric is a spice but also a medicinal herb. According to Ayurveda Health Consultant, Kim Rossi of the Ayurveda-based Art of Living Retreat Center in North Carolina, turmeric is loaded with antioxidants and has many science-based health benefits.
Tumeric may, for instance, reduce inflammation and joint pain. It has been linked to improving memory and brain function, to helping protect against heart disease, to lowering blood sugar levels and to improving digestion. As part of the Ayurvedic lifestyle and tradition, it has been used both as a spice and medicinal herb in India for thousands of years.
Lately, turmeric has also come to the forefront of the mainstream wellness industry, and we are seeing it crop up in an increasing number of recipes (beyond curries) for those looking to use natural plants and herbs as remedies for mental health and mood—especially anxiety. In addition to the ground spice, you can also buy Tumeric as a supplement.
Rossi explains that Turmeric is also known as Haridrā, which literally means yellow. It is a perennial grown throughout Asia with a signature, bright yellow color. Turmeric’s taste is pungent, bitter, and astringent, and its energy (in Ayurveda teachings all foods have an “energy”) is heating, and it has both dry and light qualities.
Anxiety, or any other kind of stress, can tax the “agni” (which is the digestive fire), says Rossi, “and If the agni is weak, we are sure to suffer all kinds of imbalances. Fortunately for us, turmeric is said to rekindle the digestive fire. Of course, we all know that good digestive health is certainly important when it comes to dealing with anxiety or many other health concern.
The Art of Living Retreat Center suggests you try this easy-to-make Vegan Golden Milk the next time you are feeling a little anxious and in need of “a hug in a mug.”
Vegan 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 (or 2 tsp fresh minced ginger?)
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.
A founding members of the WTA, Art of Living Retreat is recognized as one of the top Ayurveda focused retreats in North America. Check out the various Ayurveda Retreats offered by Art of Living Center