Anxiety can feel overwhelming, but there are natural, soothing ways to relieve it. One of the best solutions? Tea. Teas offer a delicious way to manage anxiety naturally, without the harsh side effects of medications. From enjoying a comforting glass of herbal tea for anxiety to indulging in weed-infused honey for maximum relaxation, tea drinking can do wonders for stress relief.
In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of calming teas for anxiety, their benefits, how they work to support mental well-being, and how to use them properly for maximum effect.
Effects Of Teas For Anxiety
The effectiveness of tea in reducing anxiety is explained by the compounds and their interaction with the body and brain. Teas are rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, essential oils, and amino acids that have a calming effect on the nervous system.
For example, L-theanine, an amino acid found in green tea, increases the production of serotonin and dopamine, which regulate mood, and stress levels and reduce the body’s production of cortisol, a stress hormone. And herbal teas often contain flavonoids, which act on GABA receptors in the brain and suppress nerve activity, leading to reduced anxiety and a sense of calm.
Moreover, weed-infused honey—when added to your favorite herbal brew—can further enhance the tea’s relaxing effects.
Best Tea For Anxiety
Choose your best tea for anxiety – from herbal teas to turmeric, each has its own unique calming effect. These options can help alleviate stress, enhance relaxation, and promote mental well-being.
1. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is one of the most well-known natural remedies for anxiety. Chamomile contains apigenin, a flavonoid that binds to receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation. This gentle, caffeine-free tea is often recommended for those looking to unwind after a busy day. It’s one of the best teas for sleep and anxiety, making it an excellent option for promoting a peaceful night’s sleep.
Drink a cup of chamomile tea 30 to 60 minutes before bed to help signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. For an enhanced calming effect, try blending chamomile with lavender tea, which can further help relax both your mind and body.
2. Lavender Tea
Lavender isn’t just for relaxing baths – it’s also a powerful calming tea for anxiety. Lavender’s soothing aroma and compounds like linalool can help reduce anxiety symptoms and promote feelings of calmness. Studies suggest that drinking lavender tea may even reduce symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It’s perfect for reducing stress after a hectic day.
For maximum effect drink lavender tea during the evening as part of a bedtime routine. You can mix it with chamomile or lemon balm to boost the relaxing effects and prepare your body for restful sleep.
3. Lemon Balm Tea
Lemon balm is a member of the mint family and is known for its mild sedative effects. It has been shown to improve mood and reduce anxiety. Lemon balm tea can also enhance cognitive function, making it a great choice for those looking to both relax and stay focused during times of stress.
For added relaxation during stressful moments, combine lemon balm tea with peppermint tea, which can further calm the nervous system and aid digestion. You can drink this blend during the day to maintain a peaceful, calm state without feeling drowsy.
4. Passionflower Tea
Passionflower tea is widely regarded as one of the best teas for stress and anxiety due to its ability to improve sleep and alleviate anxiety. It works by increasing the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which helps calm the nervous system. Studies suggest that passionflower tea is effective for anxiety and may work just as well as certain prescription medications for reducing anxiety.
Drink passionflower tea before bed or during times of heightened stress to promote deeper relaxation. Combining it with valerian root tea can make this a potent duo for tackling both anxiety and sleep problems.
5. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body adapt to stress. When consumed in tea form, it can help manage anxiety by balancing the body’s stress response. Ashwagandha tea is a wonderful option for those dealing with chronic stress, as it supports both mental and physical health.
Drink ashwagandha tea in the morning to help set a calm tone for the day. Since ashwagandha helps balance the body’s cortisol levels, it’s particularly helpful for managing stress that builds up throughout the day.
6. Valerian Root
Known for its sedative properties, valerian root has been used for centuries to treat insomnia and anxiety. Valerian root tea is an excellent choice for those who struggle with anxiety-induced sleep disturbances. It works by increasing GABA levels in the brain, promoting relaxation and improved sleep quality.
Drink valerian root tea at least an hour before bed for its calming effects. Pair it with chamomile or passionflower for an enhanced nighttime routine that promotes both anxiety relief and better sleep.
7. Green Tea for Anxiety
Green tea is often hailed for its health benefits, and one of the most significant is its ability to reduce anxiety. It contains L-theanine, an amino acid known to promote relaxation and improve focus without drowsiness. Green tea for anxiety is an ideal option for those who want to calm their nerves while remaining alert and energized throughout the day.
Drink green tea for anxiety in the morning or early afternoon. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, look for decaffeinated green tea options, or blend it with lemon balm or peppermint tea to balance the calming effects.
8. Turmeric Tea
Turmeric, with its active compound curcumin, is an anti-inflammatory powerhouse that also helps reduce stress and anxiety. Drinking turmeric tea can improve your overall mood, thanks to its ability to regulate serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain.
Combine turmeric tea with a bit of black pepper, which increases the absorption of curcumin, enhancing its benefits. You can enjoy this tea in the morning or throughout the day as a natural way to manage stress.
9. Ginger Tea
Ginger tea is widely known for its digestive benefits, but it can also be an excellent calming tea for anxiety. It helps reduce the levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, in the body. Sipping ginger tea not only provides physical comfort but also alleviates mental stress.
Drink ginger tea after meals to aid digestion and reduce stress. You can pair it with green tea for an added boost to both energy and calmness.
10. Rooibos Tea
Rooibos tea is a caffeine-free herbal tea from South Africa. It is rich in antioxidants and has a natural calming effect. Rooibos tea can help reduce anxiety and tension, making it a perfect choice for those looking for a soothing and relaxing beverage. It’s considered one of the best teas for anxiety because of its ability to bring mental clarity and calmness.
Enjoy rooibos tea in the evening to help calm your nerves before bedtime. You can also blend it with lavender for a soothing nighttime routine.
11. Holy Basil (Tulsi) Tea
Holy basil, also known as Tulsi, is revered in Ayurvedic medicine for its ability to balance the body’s stress response. Tulsi tea has adaptogenic properties that help the body cope with stress and anxiety. It’s considered one of the best teas for anxiety because of its ability to bring mental clarity and calmness.
Drink Holy Basil tea throughout the day to maintain a calm and focused state. For additional relaxation, mix it with lemon balm or chamomile tea.
12. Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea is another great option for stress relief. The menthol in peppermint helps relax the muscles and calm the nerves, making it a calming tea for anxiety. It’s also a wonderful choice for those with digestive issues, as peppermint aids in digestion and reduces stress-related stomach discomfort.
Drink peppermint tea during stressful moments, particularly after meals, to help calm both your mind and your digestive system.
Choose The Best Tea For Anxiety
Incorporating drinking tea into your daily routine can be a powerful tool for managing stress, relieving tension, and promoting a sense of calm.
When selecting the best tea for anxiety, it’s important to consider factors like taste preferences, caffeine sensitivity, and specific anxiety symptoms. If you’re looking for teas for anxiety that promote sleep, opt for calming teas like chamomile and passionflower. If you need a tea that provides stress relief during the day without making you sleepy, try green tea for anxiety or peppermint tea.
Consider blending different teas to enhance the calming effects and tailor your experience to your specific needs.
FAQ: Best Tea For Anxiety
What is the best natural anxiety supplement?
Natural supplements like ashwagandha and magnesium can work well in conjunction with calming teas to help alleviate anxiety.
How can I calm my anxiety all the time?
Incorporating regular relaxation practices, such as sipping calming tea for anxiety or practicing mindfulness, can help reduce anxiety over time.
Can vitamin deficiency cause anxiety?
Yes, deficiencies in vitamins like B12 and vitamin D can contribute to anxiety. Teas rich in antioxidants can help support overall well-being.
What can I drink for energy if I have anxiety?
Consider drinking green tea for anxiety or ginger tea to maintain energy without exacerbating stress.
What not to drink when you have anxiety?
Avoid caffeinated beverages like coffee, as they can increase anxiety and stress levels.
Is tea better than coffee for anxiety?
Yes, tea is generally better for anxiety management, as it tends to have a calming effect, while coffee can increase anxiety symptoms.
The owners of Cinnamon Hollow and many of its authors are not doctors and this is in no way intended to be used as medical advice. We cannot be held responsible for your results. As with any product, service or supplement, use at your own risk. Always do your own research and consult with your personal physician before using.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.