Turmeric is an essential ingredient in Indian cooking. It is a yellow-orange root that is related to ginger and is commonly found in a dried powder form.
Not only is it a culinary spice, but it also has medicinal properties. Traditionally, it has been used in Eastern medicines as an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antibacterial agent. Turmeric is both consumed and used topically. Western medicine is just recently looking into the benefits of this multi-purpose Asian spice.
Warm turmeric milk is one of these traditional remedies I grew up with. This drink is used to treat colds, congestion, aches, phlegm and sore throats.
You will need the following ingredients:
- approximately 1 cup of milk
- 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric
- a dash of nutmeg
- honey to taste
As in most Indian cooking, this recipe is extremely simple. Pour all of your ingredients into a pot and gently simmer it for approximately 2-5 minutes. That's it! As the milk warms, you will notice comforting scents being released and the beautiful colour of the spice permeating into the milk.
Sip this wonderful and warm delight to soothe your symptoms away.
Note, the nutmeg you added also has sedative properties. So, after drinking it, you can have a good night's rest.
It's cold and flu season again and one of the best ways of battling the bug is by having lots of warm clear liquids.
Over the years, I have depended on one particular concoction to ease my sickly symptoms. Not only does it soothe the beast, but it tastes great doing it.
You will need the following three ingredients:
- Apple juice
- Lemon
- Honey
Begin with pouring one cup of apple juice into a pot. I prefer to use apple juice that is made with unsweetened, 100% juice.
If you have issues with acidic foods, low acid versions are available like this one by Allen's.
Substitutes: This recipe can also be made with cranberry juice or apple cider.
Slice 2 to 4 rings of lemon. Be sure to wash your lemons before using.
Place them in the pot with the apple juice and boil for two minutes.
Pour the hot liquid into a mug and mix with 1 tablespoon of honey.
This drink is even great as a fall or winter treat! (Now, all I need is a chalet in the mountains.)
