There is little to no research on valerian tea, although it’s possible it could have similar antianxiety effects as valerian capsules. Researchers are less sure whether ashwagandha tea has the same effects on anxiety and stress because it involves a lower dosage of ashwagandha than is found in supplements. Green tea leaves are high in an amino acid called L-theanine, which is suggested to be the source of many of its health benefits, including reducing anxiety and stress. For example, chamomile can enhance the effects of sedatives, and passionflower may amplify anti-anxiety drugs. Chamomile and lavender are ideal for nighttime, while peppermint and lemon balm can double as daytime stress-busters. Each of these teas offers unique flavors and benefits, so experiment to find your favorite—or mix and match depending on your mood.
Herbal blends to try
Rounding out our list is passionflower tea, derived from the Passiflora incarnata plant. Peppermint tea, made from the leaves of the Mentha piperita plant, offers a refreshing twist on stress relief. Its gentle nature makes it suitable for all ages, and it’s especially effective before bed to encourage restful sleep. The secret to chamomile’s stress-relieving power lies in its active compounds, particularly apigenin.
Passionflower, Lemongrass & Chamomile Tea Recipe
Too stressed to brew up your own anxiety tea recipe from this mixture of chamomile flowers and lavender herbal tea? Lavender herbal tea on its own is also lovely for calming your stress levels, but mixed with chamomile, its a powerhouse of herbal remedies. And fortunately for tea drinkers, these stress-reducing herbal teas can help you sleep and introduce a little bit of Zen into your life. This FAQ highlights key information about herbal teas that may help calm nerves and ease anxiety. You can also experiment with blends – pairing chamomile with lavender or lemon balm with passionflower can create even more calming effects. These nine herbal teas offer a variety of relaxation benefits, each with its own unique properties.
Valerian Root: The Earthy Helper for Stress and Sleep
The combination of these powerful spices creates a tea that not only tastes delicious but also offers profound health benefits. It provides a foundation of calm and resilience, making it excellent for long-term stress relief. Peppermint cools and refreshes; licorice root adds a natural sweet twist that soothes the throat. Smooth, naturally sweet rooibos meets tart hibiscus for a colorful, antioxidant-rich cup. The tea leaves and roots in this blend work together to create a deeply soothing effect. Passionflower complements valerian by helping to quiet a racing mind, making this blend particularly effective for anxiety relief.
Lavender contains linalool, a compound known to reduce anxiety, lower heart rate, and promote relaxation. Passionflower works by boosting GABA levels in the brain, helping to reduce stress, anxiety, and restlessness. Note that it has a strong, earthy flavour—mixing it with peppermint or lemon balm can improve the taste. Another research article in Phytotherapy Research confirmed its effectiveness in reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. It’s often recommended as a natural alternative to prescription sleep aids.
Herbal teas are a powerful way to invite tranquility into your life. Valerian root is ideal for promoting deeper relaxation, especially before bed. You can also pair your tea time with light stretching or meditation for added relaxation. Many people find sipping tea in the evening helps with better sleep. A well-made cup of tea can set the stage for a truly soothing experience.
Best Herbal Tea Blends for Stress Relief and Relaxation
- Valerian root has been used as a natural sedative since ancient Greece and Rome.
- It is grown and brewed differently from other types of green tea.
- To make this flowery brew extra powerful, add in some lemongrass and chamomile, two herbs that pair well with the grassy but mild earthiness of the passionflower petals.
Researchers in one 2017 study found that a passionflower supplement worked as well as a mainstream medication for reducing anxiety in people having dental work. In one 2011 study, lemon balm extract was shown to help with mild to moderate anxiety and insomnia. One 2015 study found that valerian extract reduced anxiety in women undergoing a medical procedure.
Sip it slowly in a quiet space to amplify its calming effects. To prepare chamomile tea, steep 1–2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers (or a tea bag) in hot water for 5–10 minutes. Beyond its mental benefits, chamomile also soothes physical tension, making it an excellent choice for those who experience stress-related muscle stiffness or digestive discomfort. A 2016 study published in Phytomedicine found that long-term use of chamomile extract significantly reduced symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), suggesting its potential as a natural anxiolytic.
Some research suggests that the aroma may reduce feelings of frustration, anxiety, and fatigue. A guide to therapy, medications, and techniques for managing anxiety
I enjoy it with a little honey or a slice of lemon, which enhances the natural sweetness. Chamomile contains a flavonoid called apigenin, which binds to receptors in the brain and promotes relaxation. The delicate, apple-like aroma and mild sweetness make every cup feel like a gentle hug. Rooibos tea might look like regular black tea when you pour it, but it works completely differently in your body…. It’s a lovely evening tea when you want to relax without feeling overly drowsy. Traditionally used for respiratory comfort, it also offers a subtle sedative effect that helps ease both physical and mental stress.
It addresses the root of restlessness, making it a go-to for deep relaxation. Valerian root is a well-known herb used for its potent sedative properties that can help you relax and prepare for a restful night’s sleep. Lemon balm uplifts with citrusy brightness, while peppermint cools and aids digestion—an ideal after-meal tea. For a blend that refreshes the mind while soothing the stomach, look no further than a mix of lemon balm and peppermint.
Spearmint offers a softer, sweeter minty flavor compared to peppermint, but it shares the same wonderful benefits for digestive calm. For a uniquely comforting cup of tea, try a blend of peppermint and licorice root. For those seeking serious tranquility and anxiety relief, a mix of valerian root and passionflower is a powerful choice. When you need to de-stress, a blend of chamomile and lavender is a classic choice for promoting relaxation. The following herbal tea blends are excellent choices for tea drinkers looking to find comfort and calm in their mug. For tea drinkers seeking relaxation without caffeine, a cup of tea like chamomile or a refreshing iced tea blend offers a simple path to comfort.
- When paired with rose petals, the blend takes on a delicate floral note that calms inflammation and aids digestion.
- On top of that, chamomile has long been used in Europe as a natural sedative, which is perfect for anyone who’s struggling with mild anxiety.
- Because coffee contains caffeine, it may not work as well as caffeine-free teas for promoting relaxation and calm.
- A popular herbal ingredient in colds and flu teas, licorice root has also become a widespread sweetener and candy.
- During times of stress, sadness, or even daily overwhelm, I’ve found that certain simple habits help me regain my calm and clarity.
It may help relieve anxiety-related sleeplessness, but research has vegas casino apk been mixed. One 2016 study found that long-term use of chamomile extract significantly reduced moderate to severe symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Separate research finds that inhaling the scent of peppermint oil may help soothe anxiety in people who were hospitalized for heart attack and childbirth. Read on to learn which teas may help soothe and support your overall sense of well-being. I usually choose a tea depending on how I feel and what I need in the moment.
Lavender (Lavandula officinalis)
These infusions offer a caffeine-free way to achieve stress relief and relaxation. This results in an endless variety of flavors to delight your taste buds and numerous health benefits. Talk to a healthcare provider if you feel that your anxiety or stress symptoms are affecting your daily life. In these instances, you may have developed chronic stress or an anxiety disorder. It’s possible, therefore, that drinking tea that emits a peppermint aroma may have a similar effect. Multiple studies have found that smelling peppermint essential oil can reduce anxiety.
How to Brew the Perfect Cup
One 2012 study found that taking the root extract significantly reduced stress levels over a 2-month span. One 2017 study found that students who drank green tea experienced consistently lower levels of stress than students in the placebo group. Green tea is high in L-theanine, an amino acid that might reduce anxiety.
Derived from a Greek word meaning “sweet root,” licorice has tangy and tart undertones that complement the mint perfectly. Warming ginger calms nausea and inflammation, while lemongrass adds a citrus sparkle. These spices work in harmony to provide significant health benefits, from easing an upset stomach to reducing inflammation. This combination creates a refreshing and effective tea for digestive support.
Top 10 Herbal Teas for Stress Relief and Relaxation
Mornings often begin with a cup of lemon balm or holy basil to gently energize and uplift me. This tea is a dependable ally for quieting a restless mind and achieving deeper sleep. The tart, vibrant flavor of hibiscus combined with the sweet, fruity notes of rosehip creates a refreshing and uplifting cup. It has an earthy flavor with subtle floral notes and is known for its sedative properties, which help calm the mind and body. Lemon balm tea is especially useful on days when I’m dealing with stress but need to keep moving forward.
Derived from the dried flowers of the Matricaria chamomilla plant, chamomile has a mild, floral flavor with a hint of apple-like sweetness. Herbal teas or supplements should never be used in place of a prescribed treatment. Even compared with caffeinated tea, coffee has much higher caffeine levels, which can cause jitters and make it hard to fall asleep.
Are these herbal tea blends caffeine-free and safe for evening use?
Even though you may reach for junk food during stressful times, sticking to a healthy diet is key. Being outside in the fresh air and sunshine really helps, even if it’s only for a short walk outside. So keeping some green tea bags on hand is a great idea. Strain the leaves and heat it up again if it’s too cold. The more you leave it in, the more flavorful it’ll be. Combine all the ingredients together in a Mason jar, tall glass, or cup.
Valerian root increases levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety. Valerian root is less popular for its taste—it’s definitely on the earthier side—but its effects on emotional balance are profound. I find that brewing a cup of lavender tea during hectic moments can be incredibly grounding. Lavender’s calming scent is famous, but its benefits go beyond aromatherapy.