My autumn obsession, turmeric chai latte, is not only warming, soothing and straight up delicious, but it also boasts an array of healing benefits to justify the addiction. The main attraction is clearly Turmeric, and I think you ought to know all about it!
Turmeric has been used for thousands of years to help treat and prevent many illnesses. This strong antioxidant is a wonderful super food that can be easily added to your every day routines whether that is by seasoning your foods, taking a nutritional supplement or making a delicious beverage!
So firstly some important facts… what makes Turmeric so amazing?
- Researchers believe the strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help prevent Alzheimer’s Disease
- There are indications that turmeric may help prevent certain cancers and some studies have shown that it may have an anti-tumour effect.
- It helps reduce the build up of LDL cholesterol thus reducing the risks of heart attacks and strokes
- Works as an anti-inflammatory supplement.
- Strengthens the immune system and helps to fight off the common cold and flu.
- Encourages metabolism and digestion and has been found to reduced symptoms such as bloating and gas.
My favourite way to harness the medicinal properties of turmeric is by making Golden Milk or a Turmeric Chai, which taste great, and are good for digestion, helping you to feel revitalised! There are many modifications and the more you make it the more you start to experiment with the flavours. Here is my no-fail go to turmeric chai concoction…
TURMERIC CHAI
This recipe is a quick and easy one I use before I go to work. If you have more time and like to make up your own chai from scratch that is excellent! But for all you busy bodies out there this is a quick and easy way to get some morning goodness.
- A serving of chai tea (loose leaf is best) I use a generous tsp per cup of tea.
- ½ tsp organic turmeric powder turmeric (I sometimes add a little more but start with less)
- A pinch of black pepper
- ½ thumbnail of fresh ginger (if you like a kick) some chai blends have ginger already so this is a personal preference.
- 1 cup of milk of choice (can be cows or alternative milk. I personally prefer rice milk as almond milk tends to curdle)
- Organic raw honey or sweetener of choice (agave, rice malt, maple etc)
METHOD
- Heat a pot on the stove with just enough water to brew the chai.
- Once the tea has brewed for a minute add the ginger and a pinch of pepper.
- Add your milk of choice and bring the temperature down to a simmer. Keep stirring the milk. Add the turmeric.
- Once the milk has heated so that it is just about to boil turn the stove off.
- Strain your tea using a mesh strainer either into a jug or mug. Allow to cool for a minute or two then add the honey or maple – the amount will depend on your sweet tooth. You don’t want the drink to be too hot as heat may affect the medicinal properties of the honey.
- And voila! A drink to nurture body mind and soul.
Leave a comment below and let me know what you thought of it!
Jess xx
