Golden Turmeric Moon Milk (Anti-Inflammatory Latte)
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Some nights, my brain just doesn’t get the memo that it’s time to sleep. I try the usual stuff—less screen time, no late caffeine, even stretching before bed—but what works consistently? A warm mug of golden turmeric moon milk.
Seriously. This golden turmeric moon milk is my go-to.
It’s delicious. It takes ten minutes. And it’s made with ingredients I usually have on hand: turmeric to fight inflammation, cinnamon and ginger to calm my digestion, and a little ashwagandha to take the edge off.
If you’re looking for something to help you wind down (without melatonin hangovers or scrolling your phone until midnight), this golden turmeric moon milk is worth a try.
What’s in This Golden Turmeric Moon Milk (and Why It Works)
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk – Creamy and satisfying. I like coconut milk for its richness, but almond milk works great if you want something lighter. Want to make your own? Here’s how I make homemade plant-based milk without additives.
- ½ tsp turmeric powder – This is the star of the show. Turmeric is anti-inflammatory and great for calming down a cranky gut or tense muscles.
- ¼ tsp cinnamon – Helps regulate blood sugar and adds that cozy warmth.
- ¼ tsp ashwagandha powder – An adaptogen that supports your nervous system. I reach for this when I’ve had a long, overstimulating day. If you’re curious about what adaptogens actually do (and which ones are worth using), I wrote a full post on adaptogens for sleep here.
- ¼ tsp ground ginger – Adds a little kick and supports digestion. I love using it when I’ve had a heavy dinner or just want something that feels warming and grounding.
- ½ tsp vanilla powder – Adds that dreamy flavor without any weird aftertaste.
- 1 tsp raw honey or maple syrup – Optional, but a touch of sweetness makes it extra comforting. Plus, raw honey has its own calming properties.
- Pinch of black pepper – This sounds odd, but it’s non-negotiable if you want the turmeric to actually work. Pepper activates curcumin, the active compound in turmeric.
Simple, right? Once you have everything ready, this golden turmeric moon milk takes less than 10 minutes.
Tips for the Best Golden Turmeric Moon Milk
- Avoid boiling. Keep the heat low and gentle. Overheating can dull the flavor and kill off some of the good stuff in the adaptogens.
- Froth it at the end. A handheld milk frother takes this from “pretty good” to “café-level cozy.” It’s optional, but worth it if you have one.
- Drink it warm, not hot. Let it cool just slightly before drinking—it’ll be easier to digest and way more relaxing.
- Add a cozy garnish. A sprinkle of edible glitter, dried rose petals, or even a dash of cinnamon on top can turn this into a little nighttime ritual you actually look forward to. It’s a small thing, but it makes a big difference.
You can also pour any leftovers into a small jar and reheat it the next night. It keeps in the fridge for about 2 days.
Golden Turmeric Moon Milk
Ingredients
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk (or almond milk for a lighter option)
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ashwagandha powder
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp vanilla powder
- 1 tsp raw honey or maple syrup
- Pinch of black pepper
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk over low heat. Don’t boil—just warm it until it’s steamy.
- Whisk in the turmeric, cinnamon, ashwagandha, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and golden.
- Once hot and slightly frothy, remove from heat and stir in vanilla powder and honey or maple syrup.
- Pour into your favorite mug and enjoy warm. Optionally, top with a dash of nutmeg or ginger.
Notes
- Use a handheld milk frother after warming for a café-style foam.
- Vanilla extract is not recommended—stick to vanilla powder for better flavor and texture.
- This recipe is naturally caffeine-free and can be enjoyed before bed.
- If storing extra, keep refrigerated for up to 2 days. Shake well and reheat gently before serving.
FAQ: Golden Turmeric Moon Milk
Can I drink this every night?
Yes! I drink it most nights during the week, especially when I’ve had a long day or a late dinner. It’s gentle on the stomach, and the ingredients are safe for regular use—just check with your doctor if you’re pregnant or on medication.
What does golden turmeric moon milk taste like?
It’s creamy and lightly spiced—think cozy chai, but more mellow. The turmeric gives it that earthy warmth, the cinnamon adds sweetness, and the vanilla rounds it out. You can taste the ashwagandha slightly if you’re sensitive, but it blends in well.
Can I leave out the ashwagandha?
Absolutely. If you don’t have it (or don’t want to use it), you can skip it. You’ll still get the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric and the digestive support from the spices.
Do I need black pepper?
Yes—just a tiny pinch! It helps your body absorb curcumin, the active compound in turmeric. You won’t taste it, but it makes a big difference in how effective the drink is.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can double or triple the batch and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or microwave (don’t boil), and give it a whisk or froth to bring back the texture.
Is it okay to use a milk frother?
Yes—and I highly recommend it. Frothing at the end gives it that dreamy, café-style texture. If you don’t have one, a quick blend in a heat-safe blender also works.
