Getting into the Golden Milk Trend: Turmeric

Story by Katherine Nunan
Feature Photo via Flickr

Turmeric lattes are basically the eighth wonder of the world, packed with endless health benefits and the like. Has anyone else been seeing those funky milky orange drinks everywhere? No, just me?

What is Turmeric?
They usually stand out as they line various aisles of the supermarket, adorned with bright, natural colors and designs, offering an air of just how beneficial and life-altering the drink mix is for you.

Turmeric latte mixes have become relatively abundant, particularly in “gourmet” and specialty market chains like Whole Foods. Apparently, turmeric offers a multitude of benefits and some believe it may even be a cure-all of sorts.

Of course, that’s only if you believe the hype.

If you’re a fan of curry, turmeric is what gives the dish it’s signature, vibrant color! It is typically grown in parts of south Asia and India, and is a proud member of the oh-so-lovely ginger family.

Turmeric is known to contain a type of curcuminoid, called curcumin. Curcumin is believed to have a large variety of benefits, from helping to prevent cancer to simply boosting your body’s antioxidant capacity. Turmeric is also a fantastic anti-inflammatory.

Experts have also taken to belief that turmeric may help to prevent several different brain disorders and diseases, such as Alzheimer’s. Others say that it can help to prevent heart disease, as well as aiding in easing depression and arthritis.

Grow Turmeric
While it tends to fair best in a warm and semi-dry soil, it’s possible to attempt growing turmeric at home in your own garden! Sounds like a fun challenge, right?

Blogs like Backyard Gardening and The Rainforest Garden will show you how, along with several video tutorials on YouTube.

Turmeric Lattes
Now the many benefits of turmeric lattes, not just turmeric, itself may be called into question. What is in these drink mixes, and does it in any way, shape or form hinder the benefits? If you’re buying the right drink mix or making your own, then the answer is no!

There are quite a few different ways of preparing yourself a turmeric latte, and there are now quite a few brands on the market to fix your fancy if you’re considering trying this beverage trend. Give it a taste!

Who knows, you might truly be doing your body some good!