Reduce Stress with My Go-To Herbal Tea Remedies
As a holistic health coach, herbal teas are my go-to for ailments, from digestive support to natural stress remedies. Sipping warm, aromatic tea is a comforting ritual that elicits relaxation. Even better, many herbs have adaptogenic and nervine properties that help the body cope with stress and anxiety more effectively.
Herbal teas are easy to incorporate into your routine and can quickly evoke a sense of calm.
Here are my top stress-busting herbal tea recommendations:
Chamomile
This daisy-like flower is revered for its gentle, sedative properties. Chamomile contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to GABA receptors and has anxiolytic effects. The phytochemicals calm the nervous system, making chamomile ideal for unwinding before bed.
Lemon Balm
This mint family herb is incredibly soothing, with a delightful lemony flavor. Lemon balm increases GABA, modifies serotonin receptors, and inhibits excess cortisol release. Clinical trials confirm it reduces anxiety and improves sleep quality. Drink it when you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Blue Lotus Flower
The blue lotus, with its striking azure petals, is renowned for its profound calming effects on the mind and body. Often used in herbal teas or aromatherapy, blue lotus helps alleviate stress by promoting relaxation and mental clarity. Its natural compounds can soothe anxiety, reduce tension, and support restful sleep by calming the nervous system and creating a serene environment for sleep. Incorporate blue lotus flower tea before bedtime for a more peaceful, restorative night’s sleep.
Holy Basil
Also called tulsi, holy basil mitigates the effects of acute stress by buffering cortisol spikes and stabilizing blood glucose. Rich in antioxidants, it helps counter the oxidative damage from stress. Holy basil tastes slightly minty.
Lavender
Famous for its crisp, floral aroma, lavender essential oil reduces serum cortisol and activates relaxation pathways in the brain via olfactory nerves. I find loose dried organic flowers and steep in boiled water.
Oat Straw
Oat straw comes from green, unripe oat tops. It boosts alpha brain waves for a relaxed yet focused mindset, increasing mental stamina and resilience to physical and emotional stress. Oat straw tea is naturally gluten-free; however, if you are avoiding gluten or are celiac, it's important to check your sources to ensure the tea hasn't been exposed to gluten during production.
Passionflower
Used traditionally to treat anxiety, passionflower boosts GABA activity and decreases excitatory neurotransmitters. Studies verify it reduces restlessness and tension. Passionflower pairs nicely with chamomile or mint.
Turmeric
Curcumin, turmeric’s main active compound, dramatically boosts DHA in the brain while lowering inflammatory cytokines and stress-induced oxidative damage. Turmeric combined with black pepper delivers a powerful anti-anxiety boost.
Green Tea
Green tea contains calming L-theanine, which has a different effect than coffee—it induces relaxed alertness. Sip matcha during the day for focused energy without jitters.
Peppermint
Fresh, aromatic peppermint makes a delicious iced tea. Menthol has analgesic properties that provide satisfaction and tranquility, and peppermint can help aid digestion.
Valerian Root
Valerian root has been used since ancient Greece. It acts as a mild sedative by increasing GABA and serotonin. Drink valerian tea before bed for deeper, restorative sleep.
Next time you feel stressed or have trouble unwinding, brew a soothing cup of aromatic tea. Experiment with various herbs to find the ones that best suit your needs. Remember that taking time for yourself is essential, and enjoying herbal tea can be a cherished part of your daily routine.
