As we round the corner toward cold and flu season — not to mention the nail-biting election cycle that’s already in full swing — we’re all looking for ways to give our bodies a little extra care. And a steaming mug of frothy nourishment is an easy, luxurious place to start.
Whether you’re looking for a caffeinated latte to supercharge your morning or a caffeine-free elixir packed with adaptogenic herbs, mushrooms, and flowers to help you unwind and de-stress, we’ve got seven autumnal latte recipes to steep your mind and body in.
Star ingredients: matcha (L-theanine, caffeine), ashwagandha
Best for: morning pick-me-up sans the caffeine shakes
Get the recipe!
Sipping this caffeinated beverage will give you a dose of focused energy — but without those coffee jitters. That’s because matcha, a concentrated green tea powder, is loaded with the amino acid L-theanine. When taken with caffeine, L-theanine has been shown to have a lovely dual effect: It improves sustained attention and memory while inducing relaxation by curbing the arousing effects of caffeine.
This morning latte can also help you tackle your to-do list more mindfully, thanks to the adaptogen ashwagandha. The Ayurvedic BFF helps your body cope with stress rather than spiral into despair (praise be).
Lastly, this powerful green tea is super high in antioxidants, which, among myriad superpowers, guard against liver disease, speed up your metabolism, and cut your risk of chronic health problems.
Star ingredients: ashwagandha, beet powder
Best for: calming down before bedtime
Get the recipe!
Brew this plant-based moon milk latte in the evening for a more peaceful night’s sleep. Star ingredient ashwagandha is an insomniac’s dream: It can help you chill out, fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake up without the punchy feeling of other sleep aids. Ashwagandha’s secret agent is a compound called triethylene glycol, which promotes a sound sleep cycle with no negative side effects.
The beet powder, which tints the drink a delightful pink, is also a great source of nutrients your body needs, including fiber, folate, manganese, potassium, iron, and vitamin C.
The cinnamon and nutmeg add a dash of flavor and, according to Ayurvedic tradition, can be used to balance the metabolism and support sleep. Lastly, the rose petals add a dose of antioxidants and a touch of floral flavor.
Star ingredient: turmeric
Best for: a rich, nutritious after-dinner treat and complementing your overall wellness
Get the recipe!
Doesn’t golden milk sound like something out of a fall fairy tale? The turmeric, which contains antioxidants and antibacterial agents, accounts for both its bright hue and an abundance of potential health benefits — notably, smoother immune function and a stronger heart.
The golden root may also reduce inflammation, which is associated with the majority of chronic illnesses (although the exact dosage to get this benefit is still inconclusive).
This recipe has two key ingredients: the milk (which contains fat) and the black pepper, both of which help your body absorb the full benefits of turmeric.
Star ingredients: chaga mushroom
Best for: morning pick-me-up and immune support
Get the recipe!
Looking for ways to keep your immune system in tip-top shape? This caffeinated medicinal mushroom chai latte may be just the thing. Some older studies on mice suggest that consuming chaga mushrooms can stimulate white blood cell growth and curb inflammation — both of which support immune function.
The chai spices, including nutmeg, cardamom, cinnamon, and clove, complement the mild, earthy taste of the chaga mushroom and may have beneficial effects on your heart and blood sugar.
A note on safety
Although chaga has been used in East Asian cultures for centuries, no current studies have verified the safety or appropriate dose. And if you have an autoimmune condition, talk to a doctor before taking chaga, as it may cause your immune system to become more active.
Star ingredients: Earl Grey tea (L-theanine, caffeine), lavender
Best for: morning revival after a late night
Get the recipe!
This high-octane latte is perfect for those slow mornings when you need a strong, soothing drink to revive your spirit. Like matcha, the tea used in Earl Grey (which is usually black or Ceylon tea) has L-theanine, which creates a sustained, more relaxed type of energy than coffee. This concoction also delivers a strong dose of antioxidants, which may help protect against chronic disease.
Plus, it’s delicious! The lavender infusion adds an herbal twist — and aromatherapeutic perks — to the zingy bergamot flavor of the cafe classic London Fog, which is Earl Grey tea steeped in foamed milk. When you brew, slow down and take in the subtle aroma of the lavender. It’s like cozy in a mug.
Star ingredients: maca, reishi mushroom
Best for: igniting libido
Get the recipe!
Gingerbread spices, maca, and reishi mushrooms might sound like an out-there combo, but mixing these powerful adaptogenic ingredients could be just what the doctor ordered to put the pep back in your step — and in your pants.
The Peruvian maca root has been used as a libido booster for centuries in cultures in South America. Research is mixed on whether it actually works, but a small 2008 study found that maca helped ease sexual dysfunction in premenopausal women, and a 2002 study found that it helped men feel more sexual energy.
While the maca might get you excited, the reishi in this concoction may inject a dose of vitality. A small 2012 study found that reishi significantly reduced fatigue in women recovering from breast cancer treatment.
Star ingredient: peppermint
Best for: soothing an upset stomach
Get the recipe!
Unhappy tummy? Or maybe just craving something simple? Basically a milky peppermint tea sweetened to taste, this latte is a perfect after-dinner drink.
If you experience regular stomach issues, you might consider adding peppermint to your routine. Some research has found that it may ease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. It may also help relieve indigestion and reduce menstrual pain, but more research is needed.
Lindsey Danis is a Hudson Valley-based writer who covers food, travel, and LGBTQ stories. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter.
