Golden Goodness - Benefits of Turmeric Milk

• Written by Ritika Malik

  Reviewed by Leena Khowal

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Are you familiar with turmeric milk, also known as golden milk or “ Haldi dhoodh”? This warm beverage has been a permanent drink in traditional Indian Cuisine and Ayurvedic medicine for ages. Turmeric is a powerful ingredient that boasts an impressive array of benefits thanks to curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.

Let's take a deep dive into the golden goodness of turmeric milk and uncover its incredible benefits for body, mind, and soul.

A Quick Catcup on Turmeric Milk 

Turmeric milk, also known as "golden milk," is a traditional beverage from India that combines the health benefits of turmeric and the richness of full-fat milk. Turmeric, a spice known for its anti-inflammatory properties, is often praised for its health benefits. 

The consumption is associated with its various health benefits, especially during the colder months or when someone is feeling unwell. It's a comforting drink that can also be enjoyed for its taste and cultural significance.

Power of Turmeric Milk

Turmeric Milk can boost your health. It has been used for centuries due to its numerous benefits.

Mental Health 

A compound called curcumin increases the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).BDNF is a protein which maintains healthy brain cells and also promotes the growth of new ones. Low levels of BDNF have been associated with depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders.

Turmeric and Depression: What the Research Says

Several studies reveal the potential of curcumin in treating depressive disorder (MDD). Research has shown that individuals with MDD often have lower levels of BDNF in some regions of the brain. By increasing BDNF levels, curcumin may help alleviate depressive symptoms.

How Turmeric Works Its Magic?

So, how exactly does turmeric support mental health? It has anti-inflammatory properties and the ability to regulate neurotransmitter levels. By reducing inflammation in the brain and modulating serotonin (a neurotransmitter that carries messages between nerve cells in the brain and throughout the body) and dopamine levels, turmeric may help regulate mood and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Bronchitis

Bronchitis is a disease where the airways in the lungs, known as bronchial tubes, become inflamed, causing coughing and often leading to mucus production.

Reducing Inflammation and Improving Respiratory Health

Helps in reducing inflammation in the airways and alleviates symptoms of bronchitis. Curcumin has also been shown to counteract viruses and bacteria, including influenza A and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which can cause bronchitis.

Improving Airway Obstruction

A small study found that curcumin capsules improved breathing efficiency in people with bronchial asthma. While more research is needed, turmeric milk may help people with bronchitis breathe more easily.

Eye Health

Turmeric, specifically curcumin, has shown promise in supporting eye health and hence reducing the risk of various eye diseases.

Reducing Inflammation and Improving Corneal Health

The ability of a substance or treatment to inhibit or slow the growth of new blood vessels, as seen in curcumin, may help reduce inflammation and prevent blood vessel growth on the cornea.

Relieving Dry Eye Disease

Turmeric helps reduce inflammation on the eye’s surface, relieving dry eye disease..

Supporting Uveitis Treatment

Oral curcumin has been shown to help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of uveitis (inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye, which includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. It can affect one or both eyes, leading to vision loss if left untreated.

Providing Neuroprotection for Glaucoma

Curcumin's neuroprotective properties may help prevent optic nerve damage and reduce the risk of glaucoma progression (a group of eye conditions which damage the optic nerve, which is crucial for transmitting visual information to the brain).

Skin

The miraculous benefits of Haldi Doodh for your skin. Haldi Doodh, also known as Turmeric milk, is a constant in indian households for years and years. This drink is not only a soothing drink but a treasure trove of benefits for your skin.

• Reduces Acne and Pimples: Turmeric’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help combat acne-causing bacteria, reducing the appearance of pimples and acne scars.
• Fade Scars and Marks: The curcumin in turmeric helps lighten scars and marks, giving your skin a smoother and more even-toned appearance.
• Brightens and even skin tone: Haldi doodh’s antioxidant properties help reduce melanin production, brightening and evening out your skin tone.
• Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Turmeric’s anti-ageing properties reduce fine lines and wrinkles, giving your skin a more youthful appearance and providing a radiant appearance.
• Soothes Sunburns and Irritation: Haldi doodh’s anti-inflammatory properties help soothe sunburns, reducing redness and irritation.
• Hydrates and Nourishes the Skin: Turmeric milk’s hydrating properties lock in moisture, leaving your skin feeling soft, supple, and nourished.

Immune System

Mentioned are some of the ways curcumin affects the immune system:

Boosts Immune Response

Curcumin increases the production of immune cells, such as CD8+ T cells, and activates natural killer (NK) cells.

Reduction in Inflammation and Allergies

Curcumin reduces inflammation and alleviates allergies by regulating the production of inflammatory cytokines.

Supports Cancer Immunotherapy

Curcumin enhances the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapy, increases the production of immune cells, and activates Natural killer cells (white blood cells, crucial for the immune system, acting as a first line of defence against infected or cancerous cells).

Counters Tumour-Induced Immunosuppression

Curcumin can help overcome tumour-induced immunosuppression and reduce the expression of inhibitory receptors on T cells. Thymocytes, a type of white blood cell, are crucial for the immune system's adaptive response and in activating NK cells. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Prepare the “Golden Milk”

Here is the step-by-step guide that would help you prepare the “Golden Milk”: 

• You’ll need 1 cup of milk, one teaspoon of ground turmeric, ½ teaspoon of honey or jaggery, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, a pinch of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of fresh grated ginger (optional).
• Pour the milk into a saucepan and heat it over medium heat, but don't let it boil.
• Add the turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, and ginger (if using) to warm the milk. Stir well to combine.
• Remove from the heat and stir it in honey or jaggery.
• Strain the milk into a mug; there are no bits of ginger or spices. Enjoy your turmeric milk warm for the maximum benefits.

Limitations for Turmeric Milk Consumption

Considering the limitations of turmeric milk consumption, it's essential to prioritise your health and well-being. Here are the limitations:

• Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women: High doses of turmeric may cause uterine contractions or cause allergic reactions. Consult a doctor before consumption.
• People with Bleeding Disorders: Turmeric can slow blood clotting, which increases the risk of bleeding in individuals with conditions like haemophilia.
• People with diabetes: Turmeric helps lower blood sugar levels, which may require adjustments to diabetes medications. Monitor blood sugar levels closely.
• Individuals with Gastrointestinal Issues: Turmeric can irritate the stomach, potentially exacerbating conditions such as acid reflux, stomach ulcers, or gallstones.
• People Taking Certain Medications: Turmeric may interact with blood thinners, diabetes, and blood pressure medications, among others. Consult a doctor before consumption.

If you're unsure about consuming turmeric milk or have underlying health conditions, consult a healthcare professional to make an informed decision.

For convenient and expert medical advice, consider purchasing a good Health Insurance Plan that offers a variety of e-consultation services, such as those provided by Care Health Insurance. Their plans ensure that you receive timely guidance and treatment, which helps you navigate health concerns with confidence.

From Roots to Results: The Proven Benefits of Turmeric Milk

As we savour the warmth of turmeric milk, we not only nourish our bodies but also cultivate a deeper connection to nature and our well-being.

This golden mix embodies the harmony of traditional wisdom, self-care, and sustainability.

With each sip, we’re healing, balancing, and illuminating our path to a brighter, more radiant us.