Moon milk is a warm, stress-relieving beverage made primarily from milk and a blend of medicinal herbs, spices, and adaptogens. The presence of adaptogens and plants in moon milk is believed to support the system deal with physical and mental stressors. It has gained popularity as a calming nighttime drink that can promote relaxation and sleep. The term "moon milk" often refers to how the drink is prepared, with ingredients that mimic the calming effects of a moonlit night.

Dive into this article to get an insight into moon milk nutrition, its benefits and side effects.

Nutritional Profile

Moon milk typically contains the following ingredients and nutritional value of these includes:

Milk is a source of complete protein, calcium, and vitamins like B12 and D.

Also Read: World Milk Day: 5 Incredible Benefits Of Milk - Infographic

Herbs and spices like turmeric, ashwagandha, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, each component contributes unique nutritional qualities.

Honey or maple syrup may be added for sweetness, which also has certain health incentives.

It may also contain nut milk or even cacao for added extra flavour and nutrition.

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):

Calories: ~150-200 (depending on milk type and sweetener)

Protein: 8-10g

Calcium: 300-400mg

Potential Health Benefits

Also Read: Ashwagandha: Benefits, Uses, Dosage, Formulations, and Side Effects

Promotes Sleep:

The combination of warm milk and calming herbs can help lower anxiety, induce sound sleep and improve sleep quality overtime.

Immune Function:

Moon milk contains turmeric and ginger which are known to possess powerful anti-inflammatory traits that ease inflammation and bolster the immune system.

Digestive Health

Spices like ginger and cinnamon can aid digestion and may help soothe an upset tummy and fight common stomach woes.

Antioxidants Effects:

The rich array of herbs and spices present in moon milk contains potent antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body and lower the risk of developing chronic diseases.

Hormonal Balance:

Adaptogens like ashwagandha can help the body manage stress and promote hormonal balance.

How To Make Moon Milk At Home

Ingredients:

1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy- coconut or almond milk of your choice)

½ tsp ashwagandha powder

½ tsp turmeric powder

½ tsp ginger powder

¼ tsp cinnamon

A pinch of nutmeg

A few drops of vanilla extract

1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)

A pinch of salt

Method:

In a pan add milk and heat over medium-low flame. Avoid boiling.

Once the milk is warm, stir in the ashwagandha powder, turmeric, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until all the powders are dissolved.

Add honey or maple syrup if you like your moon milk sweeter. Stir to combine.

You can enjoy warm moon milk now.

You can sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or some edible flowers on top for added colour and flavour.

Uses of Moon Milk

Consumed before sleep to promote relaxation and help with insomnia.

Provides protein and nutrients that can aid recovery post-workout.

 It can be incorporated into a daily routine for alleviating stress.

Side Effects

Moon milk is well tolerated and generally safe for most healthy adults, there are a few potential side effects to consider:

Some individuals may be allergic to certain herbs or milk proteins. If you have known allergies, always check the ingredients.

Excessive consumption of spices like ginger or turmeric may lead to digestive discomfort in some individuals.

Adaptogens like ashwagandha may affect hormone levels, so those with specific hormonal conditions should consult a healthcare provider.

Depending on the ingredients, moon milk can be high in calories, especially if sweeteners are added. Moderation is key.

Conclusion

Moon milk is a delightful and nutritious beverage that confers umpteen health benefits, particularly for relaxation and sleep. By incorporating a variety of herbs and spices, it can be tailored to individual tastes and health needs. However, it's important to consider potential side effects and consult a healthcare provider if you have any concerns, especially regarding allergies or existing health conditions. Enjoy moon milk as part of a balanced lifestyle for its comforting and nourishing qualities.

( This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)

Author Profile:

M Sowmya Binu:

With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.

References:

Associations between Milk Intake and Sleep Disorders in Chinese Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

Jinzhong Xu 1,†, Jiaying Lao 2,†, Qingxi Jiang 3, Wenhui Lin 4, Xiyi Chen 2, Chongrong Zhu 2, Shencong He 2, Wenbo Xie 2, Fan Wang 5, Bo Yang 3,*, Yanlong Liu 6,

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10536886/

Effect of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on sleep: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Kae Ling Cheah 1, Mohd Noor Norhayati 1, Lili Husniati Yaacob 1,*, Razlina Abdul Rahman 1

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8462692/#:~:text=Ashwagandha%20extract%20exhibited%20a%20small,treatment%20duration%20%E2%89%A58%20weeks.