Hi there, I’m Dr. Manasa Mantravadi, founder of Ahimsa and a pediatrician, but first and foremost, I’m a mom. Like you, when cold season rolls around, my goal is to keep my kids healthy and feeling their best. I know firsthand how exhausting it can be to deal with runny noses, coughs, and restless nights, especially when we want to help our children feel better naturally.

Growing up in an Indian household, I was raised with Ayurvedic remedies that my grandmother and mother used every time one of us kids came down with a cold. One of the most comforting of these remedies is Golden Milk—a warm, turmeric-infused drink known for its soothing, immune-boosting benefits. Now, as a mom myself, I’ve passed this tradition down to my kids, especially when the first signs of sniffles show up, serving Golden Milk in Ahimsa stainless steel cups that capture the warmth and nostalgia of those childhood moments while reflecting my commitment to their health and well-being.

Let me share why this humble drink has become a go-to remedy in my home and how it fits perfectly into the holistic approach we take with Ahimsa. I hope it inspires you to try it out with your family!

Want to know more? Check out our story and our products. 

Golden Milk, or “Haldi Doodh” as we call it in India, is a cozy, earthy drink that blends milk with turmeric and other warming spices. Growing up, my mom would make it for us every winter, knowing it would help boost our immunity and keep colds at bay. It’s so simple, but I’ve found it to be incredibly powerful. Now, it’s the first thing I reach for when my own kids start showing signs of a cold.

The main ingredient in Golden Milk is turmeric, a spice celebrated in Ayurveda for its incredible healing properties. But the magic doesn’t stop there. When combined with black pepper, ginger, and a little cinnamon, it becomes a delicious way to support our kids’ immune systems naturally.

And when served in Ahimsa’s toxin-free stainless steel cups , the experience is elevated. The sleek, polished finish reflects the vibrant golden hues of the milk, making it feel like a special ritual rather than just another remedy.

I know life can be hectic, so I’ve simplified the recipe to make it as easy as possible. It takes just a few minutes, and it’s so worth it.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of milk (you can use dairy or plant-based)
• 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• A pinch of black pepper (this boosts the turmeric’s benefits)
• 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon powder (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon of ginger powder or freshly grated ginger (optional, for a warming kick)
• 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup (added after heating to sweeten). Do not give honey to babies under 12 months.

Instructions:

• Pour the milk into a small saucepan and heat it on medium.
• Add turmeric, black pepper, and any other spices you’re using (cinnamon and ginger add a nice flavor).
• Stir gently, letting everything blend until the milk is warm but not boiling.
• Allow the milk to cool slightly before adding honey or transferring it to a stainless steel cup, as stainless steel holds heat well and will keep the milk warmer for longer. Note: Avoid honey for children under one year old; maple syrup is a good alternative for young ones.
• Serve warm and cozy!

In just a few minutes, you have a soothing drink that can help boost immunity and ease cold symptoms. Serve the Golden Milk in one of Ahimsa’s stainless steel cups to add a little sparkle, making it feel more like a treat, not just a remedy. It’s the kind of small ritual I’ve come to cherish with my kids, especially during chilly evenings when they need a little extra comfort.

I’m often asked why this drink works so well, and it’s all in the ingredients. Golden Milk isn’t just a comforting drink; it’s packed with powerful properties that help support our immune systems, especially during the cold season.

Turmeric is the superstar here. Its main component, curcumin, is a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that helps our bodies fight off infections. Curcumin is what gives turmeric its bright yellow color and its potent ability to support immunity and reduce inflammation—ideal for easing sore throats or body aches.

You may be wondering, “Why black pepper?” Black pepper contains piperine, which helps our bodies absorb curcumin more effectively. It’s a tiny ingredient that makes a big difference, enhancing the health benefits of turmeric.

Ginger and cinnamon are optional but highly recommended. They add a lovely warmth to the drink and provide extra immune support. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help clear congestion, while cinnamon is rich in antioxidants, making it a great addition to keep colds at bay.

Adding honey isn’t just for taste—it’s also a natural cough suppressant. A little honey can help soothe sore throats and calm coughs, making it a perfect touch for kids (just be sure to avoid honey for children under one year old).

Golden Milk isn’t just a remedy to me—it’s a tradition, a piece of my heritage, and part of what inspired me to start Ahimsa. Growing up with these natural remedies taught me so much about the importance of safe, holistic ways to support health, which is something I carry into my work today.

As a pediatrician, I saw countless families struggling to find safe, durable alternatives to plastic dishware for their kids. I created Ahimsa to give parents a toxin-free option that’s both safe and sustainable, rooted in my own commitment to children’s health. Just as I believe in the healing power of turmeric, I believe in the power of creating a healthy, toxin-free environment for our children. Everything we put in our bodies and use in our homes makes a difference.

When I serve Golden Milk to my kids in Ahimsa’s stainless steel cups, I feel good knowing I’m continuing the tradition safely and sustainably. The warmth of the drink, the security of the cup—these are the small things that make motherhood a little more meaningful.

If you’re a mom like me, trying to navigate the winter sniffles and keep everyone healthy, I encourage you to try Golden Milk. It’s simple, natural, and effective—a comforting remedy that supports your child’s health in a gentle way.

The beauty of Golden Milk is that it’s versatile. You can adjust the spices, sweetness, and type of milk to fit your child’s taste. Plus, it’s a soothing bedtime ritual that helps them settle down and get a good night’s rest, which is just as important as any immune-boosting ingredient.

To elevate the experience, I recommend serving it in one of Ahimsa’s stainless steel cups. They retain heat beautifully, keeping the milk warm and comforting without exposing your child to harmful toxins. They’re as much a part of my family’s tradition as the recipe itself.

For moms looking to make health-conscious choices, consider serving Golden Milk in Ahimsa’s stainless steel, non-toxic cups. Just as Golden Milk supports our kids’ immune health, Ahimsa dishware supports a healthier home environment by eliminating harmful chemicals found in plastics. The stainless steel cups retain heat well, so letting the milk cool a bit before pouring will ensure the perfect temperature for little ones.

So this cold season, give Golden Milk a try. I hope it brings your family the same comfort, health, and tradition it has brought mine. Here’s to keeping our kids healthy, warm, and well-loved—one cup at a time.

Shop Ahimsa's Stainless Steel Dishware Collection for eco-friendly, kid-safe dinnerware that makes every meal a celebration. Here’s to a holiday season filled with health, happiness, and a touch of Ahimsa!