Golden milk has had a surge in popularity over the past few years within the wellness community, but it has been used within Indian culture for centuries.  Historically known as Haldi ka Doodh (directly translated it means turmeric milk) it has been used to maintain good health and treat various ailments throughout the years.  Haldi ka doodh was often suggested when someone caught a cold in my house growing up, but it never sounded appealing and I somehow (thankfully) managed to avoid having to drink it.

A few years ago I came across a recipe for golden milk which was an updated (translation: more delicious) version of haldi ka doodh and I was intrigued by the many benefits that it was reported to have including being a powerful anti-inflammatory, improving brain and memory function and better immunity.  The benefit that stood out the most for me was that it was a cure for insomnia.  While I was sceptical that this drink would be the miracle sleep potion that I had been searching for, I had spent enough sleepless nights tossing and turning that I was willing to try anything.  Truthfully, golden milk did not send me into dream land for the next eight hours like I had been hoping but it was delicious and very relaxing and that was a start.

Over time I have fine tuned my own golden milk recipe and it has become a tasty part of my wind down ritual before bed.  Filled with healthy fats and warming spices this drink is as comforting as it is delicious. While drinking golden milk doesn’t guarantee a good night’s sleep, it is a delicious, healthy and relaxing beverage that can be enjoyed at any time or the day.

Golden Milk Recipe a la Stylishly Zen

Yields: 1 serving

Ingredients:

1 cup unsweetened almond milk

1 teaspoon coconut oil (virgin, cold pressed)

1 teaspoon raw honey

1/4 teaspoon turmeric

1/4 ground cardamom

pinch of black pepper

sprinkle of cinnamon

Heat the almond milk, coconut oil, turmeric, cardamom and black pepper in a small saucepan over medium heat stirring occasionally until heated through (just under a boil).  Pour into a mug, stir in the raw honey and sprinkle with cinnamon.

Enjoy!