Nightcap (drink)
Nightcap (drink)
A nightcap is a drink taken shortly before sleep. Traditionally, a nightcap could be a alcoholic beverage, such as a brandy or a whiskey, but can also refer to any beverage drunk before going to sleep to induce sleepiness.
History[edit | edit source]
The term "nightcap" was first used in the 1700s to describe a cloth cap worn in bed to keep one's head warm. By the mid-1800s, it had evolved to mean a final drink taken before bed. The practice of drinking alcohol before bed dates back centuries and was once thought to aid in a good night's sleep.
Types of Nightcaps[edit | edit source]
Alcoholic Nightcaps[edit | edit source]
Traditionally, a nightcap is an alcoholic drink. The most common types of alcoholic nightcaps include:
- Brandy: A distilled spirit made from fermented fruit juice, most commonly grapes.
- Whiskey: A distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain mash.
- Wine: An alcoholic drink made from fermented grapes or other fruits.
Non-Alcoholic Nightcaps[edit | edit source]
Non-alcoholic nightcaps can also be used to induce sleepiness. These include:
- Herbal tea: Certain herbal teas, such as chamomile or lavender, are known for their calming properties.
- Warm milk: Warm milk is often associated with sleepiness due to its content of the amino acid tryptophan.
Effects on Sleep[edit | edit source]
While alcohol can help people fall asleep faster, it also disrupts the sleep cycle, leading to poorer quality sleep. On the other hand, certain non-alcoholic drinks, like herbal teas, can help promote a more restful sleep.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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