Sleep is an essential aspect of our lives. Without adequate rest, our cognitive abilities, reflexes, and immune system suffer and our general health is compromised.

According to the American Sleep Association, 50-70 million adults in the United States have some form of sleep disorder. The causes vary from anxiety and stress to medical conditions and poor sleep hygiene. A common solution to insomnia and other sleep problems is prescription medication.

However, there are natural remedies that offer the same benefits without the side effects. One such solution is Golden Milk, which has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine.

What is Golden Milk?

Golden milk is a traditional Ayurvedic tonic made with turmeric, ginger, and other spices. The primary ingredient is turmeric, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Golden milk is also known as turmeric milk and appears yellow in color, hence the name. In addition to turmeric, the drink contains other ingredients that have health benefits like black pepper, cinnamon, and ginger. The combination of ingredients provides a plethora of health benefits.

How does Golden Milk help you sleep?

Golden milk not only has a soothing effect on the body and mind, but it also has several sleep-promoting properties:.

Reduces inflammation: Turmeric has potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body that can cause sleep disorders.
Regulates blood sugar levels: Maintains stable blood sugar levels can help keep you asleep and prevent nighttime awakenings.
Cleanses the liver: A well-functioning liver is essential for proper sleep. Golden milk’s ingredients are known to promote liver detoxification.
Relieves stress: The active ingredients in Golden Milk have a calming effect on the body and mind. Consuming the drink before bed can help relax your mind and help you fall asleep faster.
Reduces depression: Depression is a common cause of sleep disorders. Golden milk has been shown to reduce depressive symptoms, allowing for better sleep.

How to make Golden Milk

Golden Milk can easily be made at home with the following ingredients:.

1 cup of milk (non-dairy options are available like almond, soy, and coconut)
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp ginger powder or 1-inch fresh ginger root finely chopped
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 cinnamon stick
Maple syrup or honey (optional) to taste

Instructions:.

Pour the milk into a saucepan and heat it on medium heat.
Add all the spices and stir the mixture until it is well blended.
Simmer the milk for five minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove the pan from the heat and let the milk cool for a few minutes.
Strain the mixture to remove the solid spices.
Add honey or maple syrup to taste, if desired.
Enjoy your warm, soothing Golden Milk before bed!

Benefits of Golden Milk

Golden milk has several benefits besides promoting good sleep:.

Anti-inflammatory: Turmeric’s active ingredient, curcumin, has been shown to have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation in the body and help prevent chronic diseases.
Antioxidant: Golden milk’s ingredients are rich in antioxidants that protect the body from oxidative stress and damage from free radicals.
Boosts immunity: The spices in Golden milk have immune-boosting properties that can help fight off infections and diseases.
Relieves joint pain: Turmeric has been shown to have pain-relieving properties that can help alleviate joint pain and stiffness.
Improves digestion: The ingredients in Golden milk can improve digestion and relieve gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating and gas.
Cardiovascular benefits: Turmeric has been shown to have cardio-protective properties that can reduce the risk of heart disease.
Diabetes management: Golden milk’s ingredients can help regulate blood sugar levels, making it an effective natural remedy for people with diabetes.

Precautions

Golden Milk is generally safe to consume for most people. However, if you have a history of gallbladder disease, bile duct obstruction, or kidney stones, you should avoid consuming turmeric, which is a primary ingredient in Golden Milk.

If you are allergic to any of the spices in Golden Milk, it is best to avoid consuming it. Some people may also experience gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating and gas after consuming turmeric.

Golden Milk is also a natural blood thinner, so it should not be consumed in large quantities by people taking blood-thinning medications or people scheduled for surgery.

As with any natural remedies, it is always best to consult your doctor before starting Golden Milk to ensure that it is safe for you to consume.

Conclusion

Golden Milk is an easy, tasty and natural remedy for insomnia and sleep disorders. It has several health benefits besides promoting good sleep.

Consuming this drink before bed can help relax your mind, reduce inflammation, and alleviate depression and anxiety. It is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste buds. However, it is best to consult your doctor before starting Golden Milk to ensure that it is safe for you to consume.