By  Kiki Athanas

Turmeric is thought to have many medicinal properties, including reducing inflammation, relieving gas, dispelling worms, improving digestion, regulating menstruation, dissolving gallstones, and relieving arthritis. Although it is bitter, astringent and pungent in taste, mixed with the right combinations of ingredients, turmeric can be as delicious as it is healing. 

Here are a few simple turmeric latte variations which you can pick and choose to suit your needs and health goals. The basic premise of the drink remain the same, but the macros vary greatly (namely, the amount of fat and sugar) depending on which recipe you’re working with. No variation is better than the other, it just depends on what you're looking to get out of your beneficial bevvy. Whether you're looking to balance blood sugar levels, fuel up after a workout, or simply treat yourself to a nourishing, rich dessert, one of these recipes will satisfy what you're craving.

Here’s the base recipe which remains the same, regardless of the drink you choose:

• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ginger powder
• A dash of black pepper
• A few drops of an infused CBD oil (for extra potent healing goodness!)

Keto cappucino

Are you currently following a low-carb lifestyle, looking to manage your glucose levels and insulin response, or simply in the mood for a rich tonic that skimps out on the sugar? If so, this one's for you! Simply add the base recipe plus:

• ½ cup full-fat coconut milk
• ½ cup water
• 1 Tbsp MCT oil
• A dash of a zero-carb natural sweetener (my favourite is Monk Fruit extract, but Stevia works too)

Mix all the ingredients over a stovetop on medium - low heat for a few minutes until warmed all the way through. Then, blend the drink in a blender for a frothy, thick “cappuccino-style” beverage.

Post workout smoothie

The key to proper recovery is proper nourishment - and fast! The first thing after your workout should actually be a food or drink that omits the fat and is 50/50: protein/carbs. This fat-free version is your recipe for replenishment:

• Base recipe (as above)
• 1 cup water
• ½ cup frozen pumpkin or squash cubes (previously cooked)
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp collagen powder (organic bovine is your best bet!)

This recipe is best enjoyed as a “smoothie,” so throw all the ingredients into a blender and feel free to add in a few chunks of ice if desired!

Dessert latte

Whether it’s a sweet afternoon pick-me-up or a post-dinner/pre-bedtime indulgent bevvy, this combination of ingredients boasts all of the deliciousness - without any of the guilt. Enjoy real, whole food ingredients that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. 

• Base recipe (as above)
• 1 cup oat milk (try to find an unsweetened variety or make your own)
• 1 tsp ghee (be sure to find an organic and local brand if possible!)
• 1 tsp of raw honey*

I suggest enjoying this latte warm. To prepare it, mix all ingredients in a pan over the stovetop - just be sure not to turn the heat up too high, as that will kill the beneficial enzymes in the raw honey, if you are using it. Best to cook it slowly over low heat until warmed through.

*If you’re using pasteurized honey, then no need to worry about high heat. 

Kiki Athanas is the enthusiastic wellness educator behind MeByKiki.com & the co-founder of Kiki Naturals.