DIY Recipe: Cannabis-Infused Spicy Turmeric Hot Cocoa

Researchers are finding what Ayurveda, India’s ancient system of medicine, has known for centuries about the healing powers of turmeric root. Whether consumed fresh or ground, turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate everything from sore muscles to mental fog and nasal congestion.

According to the Mayo Clinic, ongoing lab and animal research suggests that turmeric may help prevent or treat cancer, though clinical trials involving humans are still in the beginning phases. In particular, curcumin is the healing compound found in turmeric that’s responsible for its finger-staining yellow color and medicinal properties.

In a less scientific study, I’ve heard my favorite yoga teacher recommend golden paste—a combination of turmeric, coconut oil and other spices—so many times you’d suspect he sells it door to door. But in addition to fueling my superhuman yoga teacher, many Americans have personally found a significant improvement in their wellness from a daily dose of turmeric.

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Turmeric Best Ingested With Fat & Black Pepper

While taking a turmeric supplement is an option, ingesting turmeric with fat and black pepper increases its absorption. So instead, golden paste is a great DIY infusion to keep on hand. With the digestive support from ginger and healthy fats from cannabis-infused coconut oil, a spoonful of medicinal golden paste can be used in vegetable curries or your morning smoothie. Another classic and popular recipe is golden milk, a health elixir enjoyed throughout southeast Asia and currently having a moment in the U.S.

This spicy hot cocoa is infused with a tried-and-true recipe for turmeric golden paste, which uses our method for making marijuana-infused coconut oil.

RELATED: HOW TO MAKE MARIJUANA COCONUT OIL RECIPE

Ingredients for Medicated Golden Paste

• 1/2 cup ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2–1 cup water (as needed)
• 1/4 cup cannabis-infused coconut oil

How to Make Medicated Golden Paste

1. Combine the turmeric, ginger and black pepper in a small saucepan.
2. Stir over low-medium heat and add water, starting with half a cup. You can add more water as needed until the spices diffuse into a thick, mustard-colored sludge (3–5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and add the cannabis-infused coconut oil.
4. Stir well until completely incorporated.
5. Refrigerate the mixture in a glass container or jar.

Ingredients for Cannabis-Infused Spicy Turmeric Hot Cocoa

• 1 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy milk works fine)
• 1/4 tsp medicated golden paste
• 1 tbsp cacao powder
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp honey

How to Make Cannabis-Infused Spicy Turmeric Hot Cocoa

1. Combine the ingredients in small saucepan.
2. Heat the milk over medium-high heat, stirring until the golden paste and cacao powder dissolve.
3. For an extra treat, blend the entire drink for 20 seconds before pouring it into your favorite mug. It will stay surprisingly hot and be topped with barista-style froth.

Photo credit: Erol Ahmed

If you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our Cannabis 101 post. HelloMD can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it’s easy, private and 100% online.