It is even recommended to drink it after dinner to help you fall asleep…
Do you know “white coffee”, traditionally called “Ahweh baïda” in Lebanese? This drink is generally served to guests at the end of a hearty meal in Lebanon, in the same way that black coffee is offered after dessert in the West. In France, white coffee is increasingly popular, in particular thanks to its anti-stress and relaxing properties which help reduce insomnia and achieve better quality sleep. But its name is misleading… because it’s not really “coffee”.
This drink does not contain caffeine and therefore does not have the “hyper-stimulating” effect of coffee. It is even recommended after dinner to help you fall asleep. It also does not come from the coffee tree but from another plant with soothing properties: orange blossom used here as a hydrosol or “Orange tree Flower water“In hydrosol, we have all the virtues of orange blossom essential oil without the dangers because the active ingredients are much less concentrated.”The calming effect works well psychologically. In aromatherapy, orange blossom water is often used to reduce stress. It can be used at bedtime to help adults and children fall asleep, at the rate of one teaspoon in a cup of water.“, confirm the authors of Great Guide to Essential Oils, Hydrosols and Vegetable Oils (DBS ed.).
The main constituents of orange blossom water are linalool and geraniol, two molecules known to be effective against sleep disorders, insomnia and nervous tension problems. But also, α-terpineol, a wonderful ally for relaxing and relaxing and thus facilitating sleep. Also, with excellent digestive properties, orange blossom water supports slow digestion, which promotes peaceful sleep.
How to prepare “white coffee” at home? Nothing’s easier. Heat the equivalent of a large cup of water in a saucepan and add a teaspoon of orange blossom water (available in supermarkets). Bring the mixture gently to a simmer, at a temperature of around 90°C. As soon as “crab eyes” appear, in other words, when small bubbles rise to the surface of the water, turn off the heat. Let cool slightly, add a spoonful of honey (optional) and enjoy. In Lebanon, a variant with a stronger taste exists: it is prepared with rose water instead of orange blossom, which also has “calming, anti-stress and even sedative properties” underline the aromatherapist authors. It’s up to you to choose the one you prefer before letting yourself fall into the arms of Morpheus.