The words “tea” and “relaxing” seem to go together naturally. When people are feeling stressed, reaching for a soothing cup of tea is a common remedy. But is it really the tea that has a calming effect, or is it just the habit of sitting down and sipping something warm that helps?
The Calming Effects of Tea
According to recent scientific discoveries, the power of tea is 100% real. Tea leaves have a positive effect on mood and anxiety. Many blends also contain other herbs with calming effects.
The benefits you get from your favorite tea depend on the variety you choose, but they’re backed by science:
Happier mood
Less anxiety
Better sleep quality
Reduced tiredness and fatigue
Improved mental focus
Less risk of different types of depression (including postpartum)
Lower risk of dementia
Healthier blood pressure levels
Tea helps by lowering levels of cortisol, the body’s stress hormone. This is the hormone that makes your heart race when you’re watching a scary movie. It triggers the same feelings when you’re under stress. In those moments, drinking tea can help you not feel so overwhelmed.
A Cup of Tea a Day Keeps the Blues Away
It turns out that drinking herbal tea is similar to doing exercise: you get some benefits from a single session, but for the best results you should make a routine. Enjoying a cup of tea when you feel like you’re on the verge of an emotional breakdown is a good thing, but if you get into the habit of drinking tea regularly, you may be able to avoid having so much anxiety in the first place.
The Best Herbal Teas for Anxiety
With so many teas out there, you’re probably wondering what varieties to stock your cupboard with. Here are the best teas for calming you down.
Green Tea
Green tea is exactly what your mind needs when it’s feeling overloaded. The antioxidants in tea leaves fight stress and give you back your energy at the same time.
Lavender
Teas made with this purple flower are exceptionally soothing. They're perfect for calming down before bedtime. Lavender essential oil is popular for aromatherapy because it promotes peaceful sleep.
Chamomile
This is probably going to be your go-to tea when you’re having a persistent bout of sadness. Chamomile can reduce anxiety and boost positive feelings.
Peppermint
This irresistible mint variety can help you calm down if you’re feeling angry, stressed, upset or worried. Even the aroma can help you relax.
Valerian Root
Are you having trouble falling asleep night after night because of anxiety? It’s time to bring out the big guns. Valerian can calm your mind, alleviate tense muscles and make you feel sleepy.
Lemon Balm
This plant is a mild sedative. It can soothe your mind when your thoughts are racing. Lemon balm also calms the nerves.
Turmeric
This orange-colored root makes a spicy tea that tastes great with honey and milk. Turmeric has tons of benefits for your body and mind, from alleviating inflammation to improving your mood.
Herbal Supplements With Potent Benefits for Stress
Not everyone likes drinking tea. The good news is that you can get the same benefits — pure herbs are often even more potent than tea — with a daily supplement for stress relief. As long as your doctor says it’s alright, look for green tea, turmeric, ashwagandha root, valerian root, passionflower and similar calming herbs.
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