Turmeric Chai Latte

Haldi (turmeric) milk is a long-accepted concoction, popular across much of India. Now, as word has spread about the benefits of Haldi, the Turmeric Chai Latte has emerged as a popular drink. To make it, combine water and milk, add turmeric, and various spices like ginger, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and honey.

While turmeric is a global favourite now, it’s a distinctly Indian spice, being native to the country. It's cultivated in many Indian states like Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh and accounts for over 75 percent of the world’s turmeric production. While being a staple in most Indian dishes, and a must-have in Indian masala boxes, it’s also omnipresent in Hindu religious festivals and weddings through the pre-wedding Haldi ceremony, The famed Haldi Doodh (turmeric milk) is several people’s go-to for coughs, colds, and other ailments. It’s also one of the main components of Ayurveda, the ancient medical system, which states that turmeric reduces inflammation, and therefore pain.

So onto the much-touted health benefits of this ancient spice. For one, it contains curcumin, which has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin also boosts the growth of new neurons and can prevent degenerative processes in the brain. Among several other benefits, studies have also shown that turmeric is useful in alleviating symptoms of depression, known to offer temporary relief.