If you’re one to keep up with the latest trends in the wellness world, then chances are you’ve heard of Golden Milk. The seemingly “cure-all”, warm, frothy drink made with our ultra popular healing root from the rainforest, Turmeric.
Golden Milk is an ancient Ayurvedic medicinal drink from India known as ‘haldi doodh.’ Traditionally, it was made with piping hot cow’s milk and a tablespoon of ground turmeric dissolved into the milk until it turns a bright yellow hue. Milk is just the carrier for the benefits of the turmeric to take action. Traditionally, a bit of honey, cinnamon, black pepper, and hot water were added too.
But this new highly anticipated product launch, my friends, is our take on Golden Milk with a ‘Sun’ and ‘Moon’ twist. Let’s get into the benefits so you can see why we’re a bit obsessed with making golden potions.
Turmeric is one of those herbs that we all know and love. It’s claim to fame? Well, there are MANY. Being anti-inflammatory is something it’s very popular for, due to the compound Curcumin found in Turmeric. But, that’s just one of the many benefits. Here are a few more:
Improves Brain Function and Memory
Curcumin, the active compound found in Turmeric, raises the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). What’s interesting is that low levels of BDNF have been linked to brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. Many studies are proving curcumin (turmeric) to be a promising treatment for Alzheimer's disease and other cognitive disorders.
Mood Enhancer
Going back to BDNF, depression has also been linked to low levels of it! Some small studies have shown taking a curcumin supplement has helped with depressive symptoms. Although, those that took the curcumin along with a traditional antidepressant, saw the greatest improvement. To kick it up a notch as chef Emeril Lagasse would say, we’ve added Mucuna a revered nootropic known as the "dopamine bean" for its ability to enhance our dopamine receptors and give us those feel good vibes.
Fights Cancer
Our dynamic trio: Turmeric, ginger and cinnamon have all been studied for their effects on cancer.
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Curcumin: test-tube studies showed it killed isolated cancer cells and decreased the ability for cancer to spread.
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Raw Ginger: 6-gingerol is an anti-cancer compound found in ginger.
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Cinnamon: Animal studies have shown its ability to reduce cancer cell growth.
Improves Heart Health
Studies performed on the ingredients in Golden Milk have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease. Our Sun Milk features cinnamon which in addition to the antioxidant effects, have shown cholesterol LDL (bad) and triglyceride reduction, while raising HDL (good) cholesterol. If that wasn’t enough, Curcumin may also have an effect on blood vessel linings, improving their overall function.
Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
Ginger, the second main ingredient in our Sun Milk along with cinnamon have both been studied for their effects on blood sugar levels. Ever wonder why cinnamon is a key ingredient in many sweet treats? It’s no coincidence. 1-6 grams of cinnamon a day helped to lower fasting blood sugar levels by more than 25% in one study. In addition, cinnamon has also been shown to reduce the amount of glucose absorbed after a meal, helping to keep sugar levels regulated. Ginger has also shown positive effects on blood sugar levels in studies, including helping reduce fasting sugar levels by up to 12%.
Boosts the Immune System
When you’re talking about high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, then you’re also, in turn, talking about an immunity boost. In India, Golden milk is a go-to remedy for the common cold. And they were and are spot on with this treatment, Curcumin has antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. Ginger also inhibits the growth of some bacteria and may fight a common virus that causes respiratory infections.
Increases “Digestive Fire”
“Agni” is a word in Sanskrit that loosely translates to “digestive fire” When your agni is strong you body can break down foods and burn out toxins for a strong and healthy body. However, if your agni is weak, even seemingly nutritious foods can act as poison in the body. Ginger is the most well-known agni booster and why it’s used in abundance in India. It’s also known to help with nausea, vomiting and indigestion.
We’ve named our two Golden Milks to reflect when you should drink them.
Our Sun Milk is perfect for the morning or when your body and mind need a pick me up. We’ve purposely infused the blend with activating plants, such as adaptogenic powerhouses Maca and Cordyceps, known to energize the body, and even increase muscle mass (Cordyceps!). And the best part is how they taste. The delicious and organic chai spices: Cinnamon, Cardamom, Black Pepper, and Vanilla are the perfect pairing to the traditional recipe to enhance its benefits. It’s so tasty that you can even make it with just hot water if you so please, but plant-based milk is our preference (with a touch of honey).
And if you’re looking for the perfect warm drink to send you off into your dreamscape, then our Golden Moon Milk is IT.
We created a cosmic fusion of relaxing plants like Ashwagandha, along with restorative 'spirit' plants such as Reishi and Blue Lotus. Known relaxing + digestive herbs like lavender, cardamom, and vanilla are in there too. We used 100% organic vanilla which is absolutely divine.
Did you know that vanilla used to be used to decompress the nervous system back in the day in Europe? Yes, it’s a relaxing medicine too!
In closing, Golden milks are an excellent drink for anyone seeking digestive support, help with inflammation, and just overall longevity. It's perfect for kids, and also a great substitute to cut out excess caffeine.
