This time of year, there's always room for the occasional pumpkin spice latte, hot chocolate, or even eggnog. But when it comes to picking a warm drink that's worth sipping daily, you might want to go with golden milk. Chances are that you've seen a thing or two about it on Instagram or Pinterest. The spicy sipper is everywhere right now—and for good reason. Not only is it delicious and easy to make, but it's crazy good for you.

Here's what you should know about this trendy wonder drink and how to make it at home.

What Is It?

The main components of golden milk are milk (dairy, coconut, or almond—take your pick), coconut oil, and fresh or ground turmeric. The fiery orange turmeric is what gives the drink its signature yellow color, which is why it's called golden milk.

When making golden milk, there's no right or wrong ingredient ratio, but you usually combine turmeric, coconut oil, and water in a saucepan and cook it over medium heat until the mixture forms a thick paste. Some people add other superfood spices, too, such as black pepper and ginger. The thickened mixture is then transferred to a jar and refrigerated. Once it cools, you can add a spoonful of the paste to a cup of warm milk, along with a bit of honey or maple syrup for sweetness. Now, you have warm, creamy golden milk.

Why Should I Drink It?

The warm yellow brew is part of Ayurvedic medicine, where it's called haldi doodh. For centuries, it's been used to improve digestion, ease joint pain, protect against illness, and more. These days, science is catching on. Findings suggest that curcumin, a compound in turmeric, may help stimulate digestion as well as reduce joint pain and inflammation. And both ginger and coconut oil boast antimicrobial properties that could play a role in fighting germs that make you sick. If you make your golden milk with cow's milk, it might even help you sleep more soundly because milk contains the sleep-inducing amino acid tryptophan.

Other Ways to Use the Paste

Sure, everyone adds it to warm milk, but there are plenty of other tasty ways to use the rich paste. Think of it as a superfood flavor enhancer that you can add to just about anything. Stir a spoonful of the paste into your morning oatmeal, toss it into a smoothie, or add a little to quinoa, brown rice, steamed vegetables, or a baked sweet potato.

In short, you really can't go wrong. So head to the kitchen, whip up a batch, and let yourself get creative. As long as you stick with clean, wholesome ingredients—the results will be delicious and good for you, no matter what.