We know moon milk sounds like something you might say in reference to a ’70s cult or a polite way to describe your period in public, but trust us, it’s actually way less weird than it seems. The latest wellness trend determined to give us a good night’s sleep might just be the au naturel solution to that mid-week insomnia you’ve been waiting for. And, according to Pinterest, we’re not the only ones getting our Moon Milk on (nope, still sounds weird), with saves for the soothing drink skyrocketing by 700% since last year.
So what is Moon Milk?
Drinking a cup of hot milk before going to bed isn’t exactly a game changing new idea — hello our entire childhood — but 2018’s version has had an Ayurvedic overhaul courtesy of spices, honey and adaptogens.
ELLE Glossary: Adaptogens — herbal supplements that are dense in nutrients and are used to improve the health of your adrenal system and help balance hormones.
Simply take your favourite mug, fill with hot milk and add your own blend of natural sweetener (such as honey or maple syrup), your choice of adaptogen powder (ashwaghanda is ideal for easing stress and strengthening your immune system) and spices designed to send you off to sleep.
Drink before getting into bed (ideally in a screen-free environment, no Netflix here people) and you’re good to go.
Popular moon milk recipes
1. Lavender cacao moon latte
Milk + ashwaghanda powder +lavender + cacao
2. Cherry and almond moon latte
Almond milk + honey + cherry juice (a natural source of melatonin — a hormone that helps to regulate sleep)
3. Chamomile and coconut moon latte
Coconut milk + date syrup + reishi powder (a type of mushroom that helps to promote calmness and has antioxidant properties) + dried chamomile buds
4. Maple spiced moon latte
Milk + ginger + cinnamon + cardamom + tocos + maple syrup
Of course, each Moon Milk recipe is totally flexible, depending on your milk preferences and what flavour you prefer.
But does it actually work? “The adaptogens in Moon Milk promote relaxation,” says certified culinary nutritionist Neda Varbanova. “Milk itself also contains tryptophan and melatonin, which are natural substances that are known for inducing sleep.”
On top of that, the pastel coloured drink looks pretty great on your Instagram feed as well.
More content for the grid and a great night’s sleep? Count us in.
From: ELLE UK
