Turmeric milk is a home remedy believed to have its origins in the ayurvedic use of turmeric. According to traditional ayurvedic medicine, turmeric has a range of medicinal properties. It can reduce inflammation, support liver function, protect the cardiovascular system, control blood sugar, and support digestive health. Turmeric has also been traditionally used to prevent skin disease and promote wound healing. Turmeric milk generally contains milk, turmeric, and other spices, and is often consumed to treat respiratory ailments, soothe the stomach, and aid sleep.
The beverage known as turmeric milk is generally prepared by adding turmeric, and possibly other spices, to cold milk and heating the mixture until the milk boils. The milk is generally served warm, and can help to soothe digestion. Spices such as cinnamon and fresh ginger can help flavor the milk, and they may also have some of the same benefits as turmeric. Many believe that ginger root is an effective home remedy for digestive upset, and cinnamon is believed to help regulate blood sugar by preventing dangerous drops in blood sugar levels. Some believe that the warm milk can help make tryptophan, an amino acid believed to help initiate sleep onset, more accessible to the body.
According to ayurvedic tradition, turmeric milk is an especially effective home remedy for sore throat, cough, asthma, and bronchitis. Turmeric milk recipes often call for additional spices, such as black pepper, cinnamon and ginger. Some of these spices are also believed to benefit sore throat, cough and other respiratory conditions. Ayurvedic tradition generally believes that these spices help heat the body, and can help relieve congestion in the lungs and sinuses. Turmeric's supposed anti-inflammatory properties may be capable of soothing the symptoms of conditions such as asthma or bronchitis, where the respiratory passages typically become inflamed.
Some studies suggest that turmeric may have some medicinal benefits. Its anti-inflammatory properties may help to soothe joint pain. It may have benefits in the management of diabetes, and may help to protect cardiovascular health. Turmeric may also help to prevent Alzheimer's disease and some types of cancer.
Turmeric may have other health benefits when used differently. Facial masks made with turmeric, flour, honey, and milk are said to help relieve inflammation in the skin and prevent skin disease. Turmeric water is said to help detoxify the liver. When made into a paste with water, turmeric is said to help promote the rapid healing of wounds, and prevent infection.