How to Make Turmeric Tea

Turmeric is a highly valued herb with numerous health benefits. Native to Indonesia and southern regions of India, this herb has been used through the centuries; for culinary, medicinal and cosmetic purposes. Turmeric is an indispensable ingredient in the traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda.

Now, it is popular in other regions too. This is because of the recent studies, that highlighted the health benefits of the herb, including its anti-cancer properties. Turmeric can be used as a spice or as herbal tea.

You might have heard about the Island of Okinawa in Japan, where the average human lifespan is around 81 years. The inhabitants consume considerable amounts of turmeric tea, which is considered one of the major factors that boost their health.

Turmeric is primarily an anti-inflammatory agent that is said to be beneficial for treating various diseases. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which is believed to be responsible for the medicinal properties of this herb.

Consumption of turmeric is found to beneficial for those who suffer from inflammatory conditions, like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Curcumin is an excellent antioxidant that can reduce the risk of cancer. It is said that, this compound can arrest the growth of cancer cells.

With its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, turmeric may alleviate the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. It is also said to be useful for lowering cholesterol level and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It has been suggested that, turmeric provides relief from the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

This herbal tea can be prepared with a small amount of turmeric powder and water. Boil 4 cups of water in a pot. Once the water reaches a full boil, lower the heat and add a teaspoon of ground turmeric. Simmer for 5 to 10 minutes before straining the solution. Use a mesh strainer or cheesecloth for this. Add some honey and lemon juice for an enhanced flavor.

In order to prepare turmeric tea with milk, you need a cup of organic milk, one teaspoon of sugar or honey, and one-eighth teaspoon of turmeric powder. Heat the milk over low heat. Remove from heat, as the milk gets warm. Don't boil the milk that is meant for preparing turmeric tea.

Once the milk is removed from heat, add ground turmeric and combine well before straining the tea. You may add honey or sugar for sweetening this herbal tea, which is said to be useful for treating cold, sore throat and muscle pain.

Turmeric ginger tea is usually used for relief from gastrointestinal problems, cold, flu, sore throat, etc. It is also said to be good for detoxification. For preparing this tea, you have to boil two cups of water.

Once boiled, lower the heat and add half a teaspoon each of powdered ginger and turmeric. Simmer for ten minutes, before straining the tea. You may serve it with some lemon juice and half a tablespoon of maple syrup.

Usually, two cups of turmeric tea is consumed daily. It is always better to consult a qualified herbalist and seek his opinion with regard to turmeric tea dosage. Those who want to use turmeric tea for medicinal purposes, must follow the instructions of the herbalist regarding the dosage and duration of treatment.

Moderate use of turmeric tea is recommended. Pregnant and nursing women, and people with heart diseases, gallstones and bile duct problems, must avoid this tea.

Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.