What Are the Best Teas to Help Me Relax?

“What are the best teas to help me relax?” I’m sure that’s been in your mind for a while now. Well, worry no more and read this article for you to find out.

Best Overall Choice: Rose

What is great about it?

Who does not love the beauty of a rose? Roses have tons of benefits apart from their beauty, though. Many varieties are safe for human consumption and are a treatment in traditional medicine. For example, in Traditional Chinese Medicine, roses act as an aid for fatigue and sleep issues. Some modern studies also support this traditional medicinal use.

Roses are also incredibly nutrient-rich, as they are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant compounds. Their sweet aroma may also help reduce stress. You might also be interested in reading about the best coffee for first-time drinkers.

Are there any drawbacks?

If you have allergies or are on medication, you will want to speak to your doctor before diving in.

Best “Traditional” Choice: Chamomile

What is great about it?

The chamomile flower used in tea is the dried form of the chamomile plant. It gets used by traditional and naturopathic medicine regularly in the treatment of many symptoms.  

Chamomile provides numerous health benefits, including offering support for relaxation and sleep. While there are still few recent studies conducted about this, anecdotal evidence supports the traditional uses.

Are there any drawbacks?

Some people may be sensitive to chamomile. If you are unsure, start with a lower dose or a blend, and see how you do.

For a Little Kick: Peppermint

What is great about it?

Peppermint has a very distinct aroma and flavor and has been prized for much of recent history. While it offers some wonderful overall health benefits, it notably helps many people relax. This is likely due to the muscle relaxant properties it has.

Are there any drawbacks?

Due to the flavor profile of peppermint, it is not beloved by everyone. If you aren’t generally a fan of peppermint, it may be too potent for you in tea form.

Aromatherapy in a Mug: Lavender

What is great about it?

Native to Africa and the Mediterranean, lavender is now grown in many parts of the United States. It is an herb well known for its essential oil and prized for many potential health benefits. It is a common ingredient in many skincare products and also has culinary uses.  

Of the many benefits, lavender has two in particular that offer excellent support for relaxation.  Research suggests that lavender consumption may help improve and support your mood. Some studies indicate lavender could improve your quality of sleep. If a nice hot mug of lavender tea before bed sounds good, make sure you source culinary-grade lavender.

Are there any drawbacks?

Lavender may affect the nervous system. If you have concerns, speak with your doctor before diving in.

Bonus: Matcha

What is great about it?

Matcha has a unique, bright green color. About a month before harvest, the tea leaves are covered, preventing direct sunlight from reaching them. As a result, the plant boosts its chlorophyll. Unlike other green teas or black teas, the entire tea leaf gets ground to make matcha tea. When you drink matcha, you gain the benefits from the full tea leaf.

Matcha tea has many health benefits. Among them is its ability to help relax both the mind and body. In addition to the calming properties of matcha, it also helps boost moods. The combination of these makes it a great option when you need to unwind.

Are there any drawbacks?

Keep in mind matcha tea does have some caffeine. Therefore, it is not the ideal bedtime tea.