Saffron Vanilla Sleep Tonic

This gently spiced, sleep-supportive tonic is the perfect way to wind down without spiking blood sugar. Whether you make it with coconut milk or as a creamy tisane, this Ayurvedically inspired drink calms the nervous system, supports digestion, and nourishes ojas, your body’s inner vitality. Ideal for summer nights, metabolic healing, and anyone craving a deeper rest.

Why this recipe is good for us:

🧵 Saffron

Ayurvedic: A revered medhya rasayana (nervine tonic) that calms the mind, builds ojas, and balances all three doshas, especially Pitta.

Metabolic: Anti-inflammatory and rich in antioxidants; studies show saffron may help regulate mood and insulin sensitivity.

🥥 Coconut Milk (or Cream)

Ayurvedic: Cooling and nourishing, ideal for soothing summer heat and excess Pitta.

Metabolic: High in healthy fats that promote satiety, blood sugar balance, and a grounded nervous system response.

🧈 Ghee (optional)

Ayurvedic: Considered one of the most sacred and sattvic foods, lubricating, rejuvenating, and deeply grounding.

Metabolic: Supports the gut lining, improves nutrient absorption, and provides stable fat-based energy for overnight repair.

Saffron Vanilla Sleep Tonic

A calming, blood sugar–friendly nightcap to support deep rest and metabolic repair

Servings: 1 | Total Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk (fresh or canned)

  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

  • 5–7 saffron threads

  • ¼ tsp cinnamon

  • Small pinch freshly grated nutmeg

  • Pinch of mineral-rich salt (like Redmond’s Real salt or himalayan pink salt)

  • Optional: 1–2 drops liquid monk fruit or stevia, to taste

  • Optional: ½ tsp ghee (for extra grounding + ojas)

Instructions

  1. In a small saucepan, combine coconut milk, saffron, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

  2. Warm gently over low heat until steaming but not boiling, about 5–7 minutes.

  3. Stir in ghee if using, and let sit for 1–2 minutes to steep the saffron.

  4. Taste and add sweetener if desired.

  5. Pour into a mug, cozy up, and sip slowly as you ease into sleep.

Variation: Sleep Tisane with Cream

Prefer to avoid coconut milk?
Make a light, digestible version:

  • Simmer the same spices (saffron, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, salt) in 1 cup filtered water for 5–7 minutes.

  • Stir in 1-2 tbsp heavy cream or a splash of half-and-half before serving.

  • Add ghee if desired for extra nourishment.

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