Adaptogenic Golden Milk
It's been a good chunk of time since I've made this. It used to be one of our staples and has never failed to a pick me up on the days life has you feeling a little down. Sunshine in a cup ☺️ This is such a comforting drink. I love it as an evening wind down before bed and it's something my whole family benefits from when it's made.
The benefits of Golden milk are a mile long. It's healing abilities are centuries old. It's a Turmeric based drink and is normally paired with pepper for absorption. It's full of antioxidants anti inflammatory too! We use a blend of adaptogens in our Golden milk- like Ashwagandha and Astragalus root. Not just to tonify and restore the body, help the body adapt to stress, but also to support the immune system. Golden milk, especially with these herbs, have been used to aid with healthy cell function, build the immune system, help with digestive issues, purify the blood, help with mood stabilization and is even considered a liver tonic. I could go on and on. We also use Ginger root (oh so many wonderful properties!) and Vanilla Bean (an aromatic herb that lifts the mood and supports the immune system and just tastes wonderful!).
I'll be loading a handful of the dry blends on the site. Simply whisk 1tsp in 8-12oz of hot milk-traditionally full fat Coconut milk is used. We like to use raw milk. Froth and add honey to taste 😌
Some info on the adaptogens we use in this blend:
Ashwagandha-Withania somnifera-
Ashwagandha is a grounding, revitalizing herb that's well known in the western world as an incredible adaptogen-relieving anxiety and adapting the bodies response to stress. Modern society chronically activates the cortisol stress response while Ashwagandha has been shown to encourage healthy cortisol levels. A healthy stress response promotes overall well being to the entire body. The roots are what's most commonly used for medicinal purposes though the young tender leaves are also used as a nourishing herb. It's been used for thousands of years in Ayurveda and is often taken in high amounts making it a great herb to incorporate into your food. While it's calming properties are what this plant is most known for, it supports many of the bodies systems including the immune system, the nervous system and the endocrine system (and even the cardiovascular system). There's also studies that have shown Ashwagandha as a beneficial plant to support reproductive health and libido. It's a night shade-an important note for those that have night shade sensitivities. Its herbal energetics and taste are warming, sweet and bitter.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=ashwagandha
Astragalus- Astragalus membranaceus-
This plant has been around for quite some time as a highly regarded medicinal plant. It's a close relative to the Pea family. Astragalus root was first used in TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) to protect the body from illness and stregthen Qi. Now it's used all over the world for its immune supporting properties and has sparked scientists interest as well. They've found it acts as an antioxidant fighting off free radicals. It's been shown to stimulate specific parts of our immune system (lymphocytes and monocytes) which helps the body fight viruses. Studies have shown that the polysaccharides in Astragalus root are immunomodulatory (and modulates cytokine), anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral. So while it's primary use has been to support the immune system, modern studies have shown just how incredible this plant (the root specifically) is for overall support of the body. Everything from inflammation, heart, liver and kidney health, even energy levels and fatigue. It's herbal energetics and taste are warming and slightly sweet. It's such a wonderful herb for the winter months. It's also considered an adaptogen (herbs that protect and support the bodies ability to adapt to physical and emotional stress). Astragalus has proven itself through the test of time and has modern day studies to back it up. Its been shown to be safe for most people, young and old and is slow acting which is ideal for long term use.
As always, check with your doctor or health care practitioner before adding any herb or dietary supplement to your wellness regimen. This is just informational and is not meant to make any claims. Do your own research to see if this herb is right for you and your family.
https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/19/3/2793
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0141813013004893
https://www.worldscientific.com/doi/abs/10.1142/S0192415X16500014
https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/19/3/2793
https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2013/654643/
https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/govi/pharmaz/2011/00000066/00000002/art00011
https://www.nrcresearchpress.com/doi/abs/10.1139/bcb-2014-0008#.XJ5MHihKhPY
