Moon Milk & Adrenal Support — A Q&A with Adora Winquist
Q: When did moon milk enter your practice, and why?
I began working with moon tea (moon milk) about four years ago while writing my first book, Detox, Nourish, Activate. I was researching adaptogens for much-needed adrenal support. Our adrenal system helps regulate the body–mind stress response; when we support it with wise herbal and essential-oil formulas, we naturally experience greater holistic well-being.
Q: Why ashwagandha—and what does it do?
For many who’ve been “burning the candle at both ends,” the adrenals are taxed. Ashwagandha shines here—it can help signal GABA, a calming neurotransmitter, which may ease hot flashes, night sweats, support sleep, and reduce anxiety.
The Recipe
- 2 cups milk of choice (oat, hemp, or cow’s milk)
- 1 tsp turmeric | ½ tsp cinnamon | ¼ tsp cardamom
- ¼ tsp ashwagandha (ground) | ¼–½ tsp honey to taste
- ¼ tsp coconut oil (or ghee) | A dash of vanilla & nutmeg
Note: You can purchase ashwagandha root and grind it with a mortar and pestle.
Method: Warm your milk over low–medium heat. Whisk in spices, ashwagandha, vanilla, and coconut oil; simmer gently ~5 minutes. Sweeten to taste. Enjoy warm 30–60 minutes before bed.
Variation: Sometimes I skip turmeric and add ½ tsp each of lavender and rose petals.
How Long Until You Feel the Effects?
I felt deeper relaxation within about an hour the first evening. Benefits for deeper sleep became more apparent after about a week of consistent evening use.
Gentle note: If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or have a medical condition, consult your practitioner before using herbs or essential oils.
Adrenal Nourish Hydrotherapy Bath
- 3 drops Carrot Seed (Daucus carota)
- 3 drops Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
- 2 drops Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin)
- 2 drops Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
Blend the essential oils into a carrier, add to 3 cups Epsom salts, and soak at least 20 minutes. Warm water amplifies absorption of essential oils and offers deep calm for the nervous system.
Begin simply. Make it a loving ritual, not a task — brew with presence, breathe longer on the exhale, and let your system relearn safety and softness.
