Chamomile is an herb that people have used for thousands of years as a medicine. It’s often used as a natural sleep aid.
One popular way to consume chamomile before bed is in warm milk. Chamomile milk is made by steeping chamomile flowers in heated milk, and drinking it before bed can help you relax and sleep better.
The rest of this article will explore the benefits of chamomile milk, offer tips for preparing it, and discuss other variations of this bedtime beverage that can help you get a restful night’s sleep. We’ll also explore if chamomile tea with milk for sleep is more effective than just chamomile tea alone.
What is chamomile milk?
Chamomile is a popular herb that’s been used both traditionally and in modern herbal remedies. It’s so hardy that it grows like a weed in some places. In fact, it grows as a wildflower along my gravel driveway in Alaska!
Historically, people have used chamomile for headaches and fever. People may have even used it as a possible treatment for poison.
Chamomile milk is usually made by steeping chamomile flowers in warm milk. You can use dairy milk or any non-dairy alternative you like. Many plant-based milks contain tryptophan, which can help you sleep better by increasing your serotonin levels. Serotonin is a precursor to melatonin.
Some people add other herbs and spices to chamomile milk to create a variation called moon milk.
What are the benefits of chamomile milk for sleep?
Chamomile tea is known for its relaxing effects, and it can really amplify the cozy, sleepy vibe you’re going for before bed. Some research suggests chamomile may help you sleep better, especially if you’re a new mom.
Milk contains tryptophan, an amino acid that helps your body produce serotonin, which your body uses to make melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep. A warm drink like milk can also be comforting.
It’s important to set the stage for restful sleep, and a warm cup of chamomile milk can be part of your relaxing bedtime routine, helping you unlock transformation and release negativity. If you’re looking for ideas, try reading a good book while you sip your tea.
Making Chamomile Milk: Recipes and Variations
Chamomile tea with milk is easy to make, and you can customize it to suit your tastes.
Basic Chamomile Milk Recipe
Here’s the easiest way to make it:
- Heat the milk in a saucepan or microwave-safe container until it’s hot but not boiling. Around 200 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal.
- Add a chamomile tea bag or loose-leaf chamomile tea directly to the milk.
- Let it steep for 3 to 10 minutes, starting with 5 minutes and adjusting to your preference. The longer it steeps, the stronger the chamomile flavor will be.
- Remove the tea bag or strain the loose-leaf tea.
As a starting point, use a 1:1 ratio of milk to tea. If you want a stronger tea flavor, use less milk. If you prefer a milder flavor, use more. Try a ratio of 1.5:1 or 2:1.
Flavor Enhancements and Additions
If you want to add a little sweetness, try honey or maple syrup. Different types of honey will give slightly different flavors, so experiment to find your favorite.
For a warmer, spicier flavor, add a dash of cinnamon, cardamom, allspice, cloves, or ginger. These “chai spices” will complement the chamomile nicely.
You might also want to try adding other calming herbs like lavender. A “lavender chamomile moon milk” can be extra relaxing before bed.
Exploring Vegan Options
You can easily make chamomile milk vegan by using plant-based milk like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. There are plenty of vegan chamomile milk recipes online that use a variety of flavor combinations and ingredients.
Instead of honey, use maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly sweetener.
Chamomile Tea Latte
For a frothy treat, make a chamomile tea latte. You can froth the milk using a milk frother or even by shaking it vigorously in a jar.
Brew the chamomile tea separately, then add the frothed milk to one part of the brewed tea. Enjoy!
Beyond basic chamomile milk: Moon milk and other blends
Exploring moon milk
You may have heard of moon milk. Moon milk is a warm drink that people drink before bed to help them sleep. It often contains chamomile, milk, and other herbs that may help you sleep better.
Moon milk usually has adaptogens like ashwagandha and spices like turmeric, which have their own health benefits, along with milk and tart cherry juice, which may help you sleep better.
Chamomile tea blends
Chamomile blends well with other herbs and fruits, so you can create a variety of flavor profiles that taste great with milk. For example, Plum Deluxe makes a variety of chamomile tea blends that pair well with milk.
A Calm Chamomile Bloom herbal tea with rose and lavender may be just the thing to sip with warm oat milk before bed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does chamomile tea with milk help you sleep?
Chamomile tea is well-known for its calming properties, which can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality, similar to the benefits of the Svyasa Deep Relaxation Technique. Adding milk might provide additional benefits. Milk contains tryptophan, an amino acid that the body converts to serotonin and melatonin, both of which play roles in regulating sleep. The warmth and comfort of the beverage can also have a soothing effect, making it easier to unwind before bed. However, individual responses may vary.
Can you put milk in sleepy time tea?
Absolutely! Many people enjoy adding milk to their “sleepy time” teas, including chamomile, lavender, and valerian root blends. Milk can add a creamy texture and subtle sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor and potentially boosting the relaxing effects of the tea. Experiment with different types of milk, such as dairy, almond, or oat milk, to find your preferred combination.
Can I put milk in my chamomile tea?
Yes, you can definitely put milk in your chamomile tea! It’s a matter of personal preference. Adding milk can mellow out the floral notes of chamomile and create a more comforting and satisfying beverage. Some people find that milk enhances the tea’s calming properties, while others simply enjoy the taste. There’s no right or wrong way to enjoy your chamomile tea, so feel free to experiment and find what works best for you.
Conclusion
Chamomile tea with milk may be just the thing to help you wind down at the end of the day, especially if you’re wondering, is it bad to sleep after crying? It’s a comforting drink that could help you sleep better.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different recipes and flavors. If you don’t like a tea blend, add more ingredients until you do! The goal is to create a unique tea experience that you enjoy.
Keep in mind that a healthy sleep routine is also important. If you consistently struggle to sleep, talk with a doctor. They may be able to identify underlying problems or suggest other strategies that can help.