Calming Turmeric Tea

 Spring has definitely sprung but it has brought high amounts of allergens in the air as well. Many of you have been asking for this recipe. Try this tea as soon as you begin to feel sick. Or just drink it couple of times a week to keep a check on allergies. This tea is good for your system in winters too.

 

 

This recipe is a variation of turmeric milk. If you have been enjoying turmeric milk, then you will certainly enjoy this lighter version too. Also good for lactose intolerant people who can not enjoy turmeric milk. It’s rich in antioxidants and is anti inflammatory due its star ingredient – turmeric. You can enjoy it any time of the year though it can be enjoyed more in cooler months.  Good quality turmeric powder must be used for this recipe.To get a richer flavor, grate fresh turmeric root each time you brew your tea. Because the health benefits of turmeric are widely known, turmeric root is available in most grocery stores worldwide.

 

Ingredients for basic turmeric tea

2 cups water

½ teaspoon ground turmeric or ½ inch turmeric root

6 peppercorns or ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper,  optional

 

Optional Ingredients to enhance the flavor of basic turmeric tea

½  teaspoon lemon juice, optional

¼ teaspoon cinnamon powder, optional

½ inch ginger root, optional

Basic Recipe: Take two cups of water and bring it to the boil. Add 1/2 teaspoon turmeric  or turmeric root and peppercorns. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for at least 5 minutes. Strain this using a fine sieve. Add lemon juice,  or cinnamon powder to taste.

As a variation, about half inch of ginger root can be added along with turmeric  to the boiling water. This is the basic recipe to prepare turmeric tea. You can use different ingredients depending on your specific preferences.

Creamy Turmeric Tea: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of water in the basic turmeric tea recipe above.

To add honey or not ??

I love my turmeric tea without any taste enhancers. Some people add honey but sugars are inflammatory in action while turmeric is anti inflammatory. So in my opinion these two should not be combined together.

A word of caution ….

Turmeric tea had in excess could cause liver damage in those who are already prone to liver disease. It could also affect those with gallbladder disease, those who take blood thinner medications, drugs for diabetes or stomach acid-reducers. Drinking excessive turmeric tea can also cause circulatory problems.

Have you ever tried turmeric tea ? Do share your experience and recipe here for others to benefit!