This Turmeric Ginger Sleep Steamer is the perfect drink for before bed! Similar to Moon Milk, this caffeine-free drink recipe is comforting and the perfect way to wind down in the evening. Easily vegan with tons of anti-inflammatory ingredients.
Note: I have not studied ayurveda in depth and will not pretend to be an expert on the subject! It's worth noting that this recipe draws on centuries of ayurvedic medicine traditions but should not be considered an authentic take. I'm simply sharing a variation that has helped my sleep personally.
Questions and Answers for this Turmeric Ginger Latte Recipe
Simply put, a steamer is a warmed, milk beverage similar to a latte, but without espresso. A latte typically has some sort of caffeine or coffee base, where a steamer is made primarily with steamed milk. You may see the term latte used interchangeably, but I prefer to avoid it in this case as the entire point of this drink is to help you sleep. Instead of dairy milk we are of course using almond, oat, or cashew here.
Adaptogens are a classification of herb that come from the Indian medicine tradition of Ayurveda. They are said to contain compounds that assist your body in fighting stress, overwhelm, and fatigue. According to the Cleveland Clinic, an herb can only be an adaptogen if:
"It is non-toxic when taken in normal doses.
It helps your body cope with stress.
It allows your body to return to balance (homeostasis)."
Moon Milk originates in the Ayurvedic tradition of medicine in India. Similar to "golden milk," moon milk is so named as it's known to assist in a peaceful night's sleep. It typically contains the herb ashwagandha, an herb that is said to fight anxiety. Ashwagandha and turmeric are both adaptogens, a type of herb that helps to support a stable and healthy nervous system.
Turmeric and ginger are both known to reduce inflammation in the body and promote a peaceful nervous system. This can help your body get ready to fully rest. Even if you do not follow Ayurvedic medicine, you can reap the benefits from moon milk. Cinnamon and nutmeg are very comforting flavors, and the warm milk provides your body an opportunity to slow down and rest at the end of the day.
Ingredients Needed
- Nondairy milk: Almond, cashew, and oat milk all work. I have been trying to drink more oat milk recently as it's much better for the environment and has a very creamy consistency.
- Ginger: I prefer to use fresh (pictured above), but dried/ground will work in place if that's what you have access to. If you use fresh, you'll want to strain before drinking (as directed) to remove any stringy bits.
- Turmeric: Similarly, I prefer to use fresh turmeric but feel free to substitute ground if that's easier. Beware: turmeric wants to stain everything it touches.
- Cinnamon: Ground is the easiest to use here, and it really lends a cozy flavor profile.
- Nutmeg: This is optional but recommended as it pairs perfectly with the cinnamon.
- Black pepper: You cannot really taste it in the final product but black pepper unlocks the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric (the curcumin).
- Vanilla extract: This flavor we associate with sweetness helps balance the earthy notes of turmeric.
- Maple syrup: Just a couple teaspoons also balance out the sharper notes from other the ingredients.
Can this recipe be made in advance?
Yes, depending on the kind of milk you use. Some commercial nondairy milks contain gums that can denature a bit when heated and then cooled. I've experienced this with almond milk. While I don't think this is necessarily "bad," it's certainly unappealing. I would recommend making this right before bed - think of it as a nice nighttime ritual.
Would you like to save this?
We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later!
I hope if you try this recipe that it helps you get a better night's sleep! Please always let me know what you think in the comments here (ratings are VERY helpful). Feel free to connect over on Instagram or Tiktok as well!
More Drink Recipes with Turmeric and Ginger
Anti-Inflammatory Carrot Ginger Turmeric Juice
Turmeric Ginger Sleep Steamer
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups plain nondairy milk such as oat, coconut, cashew, or almond
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated (or ¼ teaspoon ground)
- ½ teaspoon fresh turmeric grated (or ⅛ teaspoon ground)
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon grated nutmeg optional
- A few twists of black pepper
- Splash of vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoon maple syrup
Instructions
- Add milk. ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, nutmeg if using, black pepper, vanilla, and maple syrup to a small pot.
- Bring to a simmer over low heat and cook for 3-5 minutes, until warmed through and slightly reduced. Stir a few times to prevent burning.
- If you'd like, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve before drinking (this is recommended if you used fresh ginger and turmeric). Best enjoyed right away!
Sue0523 says
Delicious!
Emily says
Thank you for trying it!! 🙂
Dixie P. says
I've tried this a couple times now and it really works! Thanks so much for sharing!
Emily says
Hi Dixie, thank you for trying it and sharing that! I appreciate it 🙂
SWH says
Heading to bed - but not without my Sweet Dream Latte!
Emily says
Yay, thank you for commenting + rating, AS!! 🙂