BOOSTED "GOLDEN MYLK" MUSHROOM ELIXIRS
/Have you heard of Golden Mylk or Turmeric Tea? It’s a warm drink typically made with turmeric and either coconut milk or coconut oil and spices.
Let’s Talk Turmeric
Turmeric — or the “spice of life” as it’s known in India — has been used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries. Its anti-inflammatory benefits are also well documented in the mainstream medical literature.
Turmeric’s main active ingredient is curcumin. In addition to its potent anti-inflammatory effects, this amazing phytochemical is believed to have blood sugar-stabilizing, anti-cancer, wound-healing, and cognitive & mood-enhancing benefits.
Here I have a couple different “boosted” versions of Golden Milk. I have added collagen in the form of collagen peptides or gelatin (omit for vegan), along with “adaptogenic” medicinal mushrooms. More studies are needed, but natural adaptogens are believed to help the body counteract and adapt to stress.
Mad About Mushrooms
I know it may sound funny to add ground-up mushrooms to your tea. However, they provide what I think is a pleasant earthy flavour along with a myriad of amazing disease-fighting benefits. These immune-boosting fungi are rich in B vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and each species has its own unique health profile. Lion's mane, for example, has been recognized for its nootropic effects and is believed to boost memory, concentration, and brain function. Chaga and cordyceps are considered energizing adaptogens because they can help improve stamina and endurance while reducing stress and anxiety. Studies also suggest they may have anti-cancer properties.
Boosted Golden Milk Mushroom Elixir Recipes
These elixirs are quick & easy to prepare and can be enjoyed any time of the day. I love to have one as a soothing evening drink or in the morning as a caffeine-free alternative to Bulletproof-style coffee. Of note, both the healthy fats (as coconut butter or MCT oil) and black pepper are important as they increase the bioavailability or absorption of curcumin.
Version One
For 2 servings, blend together until smooth and frothy:
2 cups warm unsweetened non-dairy milk
2 Tbsp Further Food collagen (omit for vegan)
1 Tbsp coconut butter
1 tsp Prairie Naturals fermented turmeric
1/2 tsp FreshCap Mushrooms lion’s mane extract
1/2 tsp FreshCap Mushrooms turkey tail extract
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
pinch each of black pepper and cardamom
Lakanto sugar-free monk fruit sweetener or sweetener of choice, adjusted to taste
Version 2
For 2 servings, blend together until smooth and frothy:
2 cups warm unsweetened cashew or nut-free milk
2 Tbsp Further Food gelatin powder
1 tsp FreshCap Mushrooms Thrive 6 mushroom blend (reishi, chaga, lion’s mane, cordyceps, maitake, and turkey tail)
1 Tbsp chopped fresh ginger
2 tsp coconut butter or MCT oil
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp cardamom
1/4 tsp Prairie Naturals fermented turmeric
pinch of black pepper
Lakanto sugar-free monk fruit sweetener, or sweetener of choice, adjusted to taste