Sweet Dreams Elixir
This is a lovely tonic to have before bed. Hot milk induces a natural sound sleep,when enjoyed warm it aids the digestive system and nourishes the reproductive tissue in both men and women. Traditionally, a couple will have a cup of this elixir after making love to replenish liquids and rebuild strength.
According to Charaka Samhita, the oldest text on health and the basis of the ancient Indian system of Ayurvedic Medicine, the healing properties of milk and its usefulness in inducing the sleep state is described in great detail.
Milk provides special and unique nutrition that cannot be derived from any other type of food. Milk, when digested properly, nourishes all the tissues, promotes balanced emotions, and helps to balance all the doshas. It is one of the most important foods to promote ojas.
Ojas is a refined substance the body produces from the most subtle level of proper digestion. Ojas brings strength, strong immunity, happiness, and contentment.
The Recipe:
1 Cup fresh organic milk, raw or non-homogenized
1 Cup water
1-2 teaspoons fresh ginger root, peeled and grated or chopped
1 pinch of nutmeg, cardamom and a few saffron
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Bring milk, water, spices and ginger to a boil in a small saucepan.
Reduce heat to low after 20-30 seconds, and let simmer for a minute or two more.
Remove from heat, strain and serve. Sweeten with honey, maple syrup, jaggery or agave, if desired.
In order to digest milk properly, one should avoid drinking cold milk right out of the refrigerator. Milk should be brought to a boil. Allow the milk to foam up and then bring the heat down so the milk is on a slow boil for about 5 to 10 minutes. Heating the milk changes the molecular structure of the milk making the milk lighter and easier to digest.
For a more pungent tonic try adding a pinch of ground turmeric, a pinch of ground black pepper, a cinnamon stick, or a few pinches of ginger to reduce the heaviness of the milk and reduce any mucous causing side effect.
