Turmeric Infusion: Healthy, Delicious, and Easy to Prepare
Turmeric is a staple of Indian culture and cuisine. This yellow powder is a popular spice that adds color and flavor to curry dishes around the world. It's also well-known as the main ingredient in golden milk, the trendy health drink.
Turmeric infusions are a tonic that boosts overall health with an earthy and spicy aroma. If you want to know the reasons for their incredible health benefits and learn how to make a delicious turmeric infusion, just keep reading.
What is turmeric infusion?
Turmeric, or Curcuma longa by its botanical name, is a root used in cooking and as an ingredient in various infusions. It is a close relative of ginger. What draws attention most about turmeric is its vibrant orange color. This spice has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties.
The main component of turmeric is curcumin, which gives the popular spice its vibrant hue. Curcumin is also the ingredient attributed to most of its health benefits. Turmeric tea has a less bitter taste than when eaten raw, or as the spice or root. This is mainly because it is often pre-mixed with other ingredients, thus softening its potent flavor.
Benefits of turmeric infusion
Turmeric is not only used for its flavor and color, but it can also provide countless health benefits. These are the scientifically studied benefits of turmeric tea:
1. Anti-inflammatory
Studies suggest that curcumin may help reduce various types of inflammation. Inflammation is the body's response to viruses, bacteria, external injuries, or radiation. Inflammation can be temporary or chronic. Curcumin may be beneficial for inflammatory bowel disease, eye inflammation, arthritis, and postoperative inflammation.
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2. Antioxidant power
Curcumin is the primary antioxidant found in turmeric root. Studies have shown that curcumin can provide significant antioxidant activity. Along with other flavonoids in turmeric, it may help reduce oxidative stress and prevent cellular damage. Antioxidants may help boost the immune system and reduce damage caused by various environmental factors, such as pollution, harmful UV light, and tobacco smoke.
3. Antiviral
Curcumin has antiviral activity, meaning it may help fight many viruses. Studies suggest it has potent antiviral activity against various viruses, including the herpes simplex virus, Zika virus, dengue virus, hepatitis C virus, and pneumonia.
4. Good for the skin
Turmeric may also help with various skin conditions. Scientists have investigated the effects of ingestion and topical application of curcumin on skin health and suggest it may be beneficial for treating acne, alopecia, atopic dermatitis, and facial aging. Curcumin may also be beneficial for treating psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin disease that is often very difficult to treat.
5. Slimming
Studies suggest that curcumin can help significantly reduce weight, waist circumference, and body mass index, especially in overweight people with metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is characterized by a high waist circumference, low levels of good cholesterol, and high triglyceride levels. It can lead to several diseases, including type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Furthermore, turmeric may help delay and treat type 2 diabetes.
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6. Detox
Turmeric is often used for detox purposes, especially to support the liver. Studies suggest it may have an inhibitory effect against various toxic substances, including toxins, some drugs, and alcohol. However, you should never do a detox alone, as excessive curcumin intake can cause health damage.
An easy-to-prepare infusion
Ingredients
- 200 ml of milk (you can use any type of milk, including vegetable milks)
- 1 small spoonful of Turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon of cinnamon
- A little ground black pepper
- 1/2 small spoonful of powdered ginger
Preparation
- Add all the ingredients to a small saucepan and simmer for 5 minutes. The infusion is ready when the spices begin to emit an aromatic scent.
- Strain the turmeric infusion through a fine mesh strainer. Pour the golden infusion into a mug and sweeten with honey or maple syrup. Enjoy your turmeric infusion.
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Golden Milk or Golden Milk with Turmeric and Ginger
Turmeric as an ingredient in other infusions
One of turmeric's most interesting properties is that it combines perfectly with other ingredients to create uniquely flavored infusions. Some of the most commonly used spices with turmeric are ginger, cardamom, cloves, and anise.
Turmeric also combines very well with green tea to create a powerful tonic like our Organic Fat Burning Infusion .
Contraindications of turmeric infusion
Taking turmeric is considered safe in moderate amounts, but it's good to keep a few things in mind when drinking turmeric tea.
Turmeric can stain
Turmeric's beautiful, vibrant color can stain everything from skin to countertops. Wear an apron when preparing the infusion to protect your clothes from stains. If your countertop gets stained with turmeric, you can use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to clean it.
Interaction with medications
Because turmeric reduces inflammation, it may interact with anti-inflammatory medications such as NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Turmeric may also interact with medications that regulate blood sugar. Consult your doctor before using turmeric if you are taking any medication.
During pregnancy
Pregnant women can consume turmeric in small amounts during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Experts recommend drinking no more than two cups of turmeric tea per day.