The Best Teas to Reduce Stress and Depression

Tea has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for stress and anxiety. Certain teas contain compounds that promote relaxation and can help alleviate symptoms of depression. Here are some of the best teas for stress and depression.

Lavender Tea

Lavender tea is known for its ability to calm and soothe the mood. Research has shown that lavender oil, extracted from the lavender plant, is effective in treating depression and anxiety. In fact, lavender extracts are approved for treating anxiety and depression in Germany. Lavender tea emits a delicious floral aroma that can help improve sleep quality by increasing the amount of time spent in deep sleep cycles.

Lemon Balm

Tea Lemon balm tea, a member of the mint family, has a refreshing flavor with lemon undertones. Research has found that lemon balm tea can help treat anxiety symptoms on a chemical level in the brain. One study showed that 95% of volunteers responded to treatment, with 70% experiencing complete remission of anxiety symptoms.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea is known for its calming effects and is often consumed before bedtime. Chamomile contains apigenin, an antioxidant that targets neurotransmitters and brain receptors to induce relaxation. A study found that chamomile tea can decrease anxiety symptoms for moderate to severe anxiety disorders.

Green Tea

Green tea is well-researched and has potential health benefits for heart disease, cancer prevention, and immune system health. It contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which slows caffeine absorption and has a natural calming effect. A pilot study found that green tea inhibits a-amylase activity, which is a marker of stress.

Passionflower Tea

Passionflower tea is made from the petals of the passion flower plant and has been used to treat anxiety, seizures, and hysteria. Drinking passionflower tea has been found to improve sleep quality and boost GABA levels, which induce relaxation.

Valerian Root Tea

Valerian root tea has a potent earthy flavor and has been used in herbal remedies to treat anxiety and depression. A study showed that valerian extract can help decrease anxiety prior to surgery.

Peppermint Tea

Peppermint tea has a refreshing aroma and flavor, and its scent can induce relaxation and reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and chronic stress. Peppermint tea also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation.

Holy Basil Tea

Holy basil tea has a highly aromatic flavor profile that includes hints of clove and peppery notes. Research shows that holy basil tea may be as effective in treating anxiety as diazepam and other antidepressants. Holy basil tea has also been shown to improve memory recall and improve quality of sleep.

Ginseng Tea

Ginseng tea has been found to have anti-stress and anti-inflammatory effects. Drinking ginseng tea can improve mood and cognitive function and may help alleviate symptoms of depression.

Benefits and Precautions

Herbal teas and true teas cannot replace prescription medications for severe cases of depression or anxiety, and they may interact with certain medications and other herbal supplements such as St. John’s Wort. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a physician before using teas to treat symptoms.

Although tea cannot cure anxiety, it can alleviate some of the associated symptoms. With its natural calming effect, tea provides an opportunity to take a moment out of the day to relax and focus on important matters.

Drinking tea regularly can also contribute to overall health and well-being, helping individuals feel their best. Its stress-relieving properties aid in relaxation, and the delicious flavors make it an enjoyable experience. By steeping a few tea bags or loose leaf teas throughout the day, individuals can improve their relaxation and achieve overall calm.