Version 3 (the other variation of the recipe)
Recipe: 1 cup of whole organic/raw cows milk. 1 tsp. of turmeric, 1/8 tsp. of cardamom powder, 1/8 tsp. of nutmeg, 1/2 tsp. of ghee, 10-15 raw almonds, 1-2 quarter size slices of raw ginger, pinch of saffron, and even tonic herbs such as 1 tsp. of Ashwagandha and 1 tsp. of Shatavari Powder. Simmer for 15 minutes. Add to mug and then add 1 tsp. of raw honey. Drink and enjoy!
Note that the last image depicts the blended version of the recipe. The blender transforms the heavy (guru) quality of milk by adding air and making it light (lagu). You don't have to blender it and can just enjoy chewing on the almonds and the ginger pieces.
Considerations
This beverage should be drank warm and can be either taken in the morning or at night before bed. It can be an afternoon treat in place of tea or coffee. In the first version, this is the more basic and traditional version of the recipe according to my teachings. As the recipe progresses it becomes more of a tonic. The last two versions of the recipe can be considered a "warm smoothie" based on consistency, especially if you blender it.
This is not meant to treat any specific ailment and is meant as a general tonic, especially with the progressing variations. All the herbs, ghee, almonds and other ingredients have medicinal qualities and serve multiple purposes which you can email me about for specifics. Importantly, Ayurveda shows us that there is NO one size fits all and even though these recipes can be amazing and generally harmless it can be the case that for some individuals this may not "go down smoothly." A practitioner of Ayurveda can best decide best, through constitutional considerations, if you have concerns.
One brief comment on milk that I would like to elaborate on is that many people may have sensitivities to it, ranging from animal rights to simple food allergies. I only advocate for milk, based on quality and an individuals digestive abilities, mentally and physically. It is generally based on a case by case basis. Historically, Milk is a key ingredient in all of India, where this recipe was given birth to. Milk, when it is raw and slightly homogenized is beneficial for the digestive system and nervous system, if an individual is able to digest it mentally and physically. For those who wish to substitute the milk with something like almond, coconut, hemp or even soy milk, they can. They can still benefit from the drink. What milk provides specifically is the fatty content, the protein content and within this combination we have Tryptophan that becomes metabolized into Serotonin and eventually Melatonin and this supports a calming effect on the nervous system, that no other milk does. If the heaviness of milk is an issue, then simply add equal proportion of filtered water to the recipe and watch how easy it goes down. Of course, if you're substituting milk with the other options, then water isn't needed.
Please let me know what you thing of the recipe by commenting and/or contacting me. I love sharing the wisdom of Ayurveda! Happy Health!
