Tea can reduce anxiety in several ways. Herbal teas have long been used to relax people. Below, we explain some of those ingredients' science. Just brewing tea can relax you. As a mindful ritual, it can give you pause.
1. Peppermint
The Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians used peppermint medicinally. It's no wonder stomachaches, headaches, and stress are still treated with it. Peppermint has a long history but little research. Peppermint appears safe, but long-term studies are lacking.
2. Chamomile
Every cold granny knows chamomile tea helps her relax. Chamomile tea may help with GAD, according to research. Although tea's small amounts are safe, warfarin and cyclosporine users should be aware of potential interactions.
3. Lavender
Baby lotions and lattes calm nerves with lavender. One systematic review of 90 studies found lavender inhalation significantly reduces anxiety. Massaged and oral lavender reduced anxiety. The authors of this review acknowledge the low quality and bias of studies.
4. Lemon Balm
Melissa officinalis, lemon balm, has been used medicinally for 2000 years. Lemon balm reduced oxidative stress, cell death, and anxiety in mice in a 2020 study.
5. Passionflower
Native Americans used passionflower to sedate. It is now recommended for anxiety, sleep, pain, menopause, and ADHD. Passionflower has not been extensively studied, but it may reduce anxiety before surgery and dentistry.
6. Green Tea
No secret: green tea. Comprehensively examined health benefits. Green tea and anxiety may depend on caffeine reduction.Two 2017 studies examined caffeine-free green tea. In one study, theanine, an amino acid in green tea, reduced stress, but caffeine blocked it.
7. Turmeric
Turmeric—a ginger relative—has a long history in traditional medicine. The colourful root is used as a spice and herb. Curcumin, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory polyphenol, is turmeric's main healing ingredient. To reap the benefits, drink turmeric tea or latte.
8. Valerian
The Greeks and Romans used Valerian for insomnia, migraines, and fatigue. Little research and inconsistent evidence suggest it helps sleep. Its effects on stress and anxiety are unknown. Tradition and vibes make Valerian a popular relaxant, but it's safe for short-term use.
9. Rose
It smells good and looks pretty, but does it reduce anxiety? Rose oil was studied in 13 clinical trials with 772 participants. Rose oil reduced pain, anxiety, and relaxed the body and mind in inhalation and topical studies.
10. Ginseng
Use ginseng roots to prepare. Its use studies are usually too weak to conclude. The most common ginseng side effect is insomnia, which worsens anxiety. In animals, ginseng causes birth defects, making it unsafe during pregnancy.