10 Best Herbal Teas For Palpitation
Herbal teas can be a natural and soothing remedy for individuals experiencing palpitations, as they often contain calming herbs like valerian root, lemon balm, and chamomile, which help reduce stress and anxiety—common triggers for heart palpitations.
These teas work by promoting relaxation and regulating the nervous system, which in turn can support a more stable heart rhythm. However, it's important to note that while herbal teas may offer symptomatic relief, they should not replace professional medical advice, especially if palpitations are frequent or severe. Some herbs may interact with medications or have side effects, so consulting a healthcare provider before regular use is advisable.
Overall, herbal teas can be a complementary approach to managing palpitations when used mindfully and in conjunction with proper medical care.
Table of Contents
1. Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian, is a traditional herbal remedy often used in the form of tea to address symptoms such as palpitations, which are irregular or rapid heartbeats.
The herb contains compounds like valerenic acid and essential oils that may help calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety, both of which can contribute to palpitations. Valerian tea is typically prepared by steeping the dried root in hot water for several minutes, and it is often consumed in the evening to promote relaxation. While some studies suggest valerian may have mild sedative effects, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using it, especially for individuals with heart conditions or those taking other medications.
Overall, valerian officinalis herbal tea can be a natural complement to managing palpitations, though it should not replace medical advice or treatment.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, has been traditionally used in herbal teas to support cardiovascular health, including the management of palpitations.
The active compound in licorice root, glycyrrhizin, may help regulate blood pressure and reduce stress-induced heart rhythms, which can contribute to palpitations. However, excessive consumption of licorice root tea can lead to side effects such as hypertension and potassium depletion, so it should be used with caution. It is often combined with other herbs like hawthorn or valerian to enhance its calming effects on the heart.
As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using licorice root tea, especially for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.
3. Passiflora incarnata
Passiflora incarnata, commonly known as passionflower, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used to address anxiety-related symptoms, including palpitations.
Its calming effects are attributed to compounds such as flavonoids and alkaloids, which may help regulate the nervous system and reduce stress-induced heart palpitations. Passionflower tea is often recommended as a natural alternative to pharmaceutical sedatives due to its mild and soothing properties. Studies suggest that it may enhance GABA activity in the brain, promoting relaxation and lowering heart rate.
When consumed regularly, passionflower herbal tea can offer a gentle, long-term approach to managing palpitations associated with anxiety or emotional distress.
4. Salvia officinalis
Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, has been traditionally used in herbal teas to support cardiovascular health and may help alleviate symptoms of palpitations.
The herb contains compounds such as rosmarinic acid and flavonoids, which are believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may stabilize heart rhythms. While there is limited scientific evidence specifically linking sage tea to the reduction of palpitations, some studies suggest it may help lower stress and anxiety, common triggers for palpitations. It is often recommended as a complementary therapy alongside conventional treatments for heart-related issues.
However, individuals experiencing frequent or severe palpitations should consult a healthcare professional before using sage or any herbal remedy.
5. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, commonly known as chamomile, is a popular herbal tea often used for its calming properties.
It contains compounds like apigenin, which may help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, potentially alleviating symptoms of palpitations caused by stress or nervousness. Chamomile tea is generally considered safe for most adults when consumed in moderate amounts, though it should be avoided by those with allergies to plants in the daisy family. Some studies suggest that its mild sedative effects may help regulate heart rate and ease irregular heartbeats.
However, individuals experiencing persistent palpitations should consult a healthcare professional to rule out underlying cardiac conditions.
6. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential cardiovascular benefits.
When brewed into a tea, it may help support heart health by reducing inflammation and improving circulation. Some studies suggest that the compounds in stinging nettle, such as flavonoids and minerals, may help regulate heart rhythm and alleviate symptoms of palpitations. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using urtica dioica tea, especially for individuals with existing heart conditions or those taking medications.
While it may offer natural support for palpitations, it should not replace conventional medical treatment.
7. Camellia sinensis
Camellia sinensis, the plant from which green, black, and white teas are derived, contains bioactive compounds such as caffeine, polyphenols, and antioxidants that may influence heart rate and rhythm.
While moderate consumption of Camellia sinensis herbal teas is generally safe, excessive intake can potentially trigger palpitations in sensitive individuals due to its stimulant effects. The caffeine content in these teas can increase sympathetic nervous system activity, leading to heightened heart rate and irregular heartbeats. However, some studies suggest that the polyphenols in Camellia sinensis may have cardioprotective properties that could counteract these effects.
It is advisable for individuals experiencing palpitations to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating Camellia sinensis teas into their routine.
8. Piper methysticum
Piper methysticum, commonly known as kava, is a traditional herbal plant used for its calming effects, and some people have used kava tea to manage symptoms of palpitations, which are irregular or rapid heartbeats.
While kava may help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can indirectly alleviate palpitations caused by stress or nervousness, it is important to note that it is not a direct treatment for cardiac arrhythmias. However, the use of kava tea should be approached with caution, as it can interact with certain medications and may pose risks for individuals with liver conditions or those taking specific heart medications.
As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using kava tea for palpitations to ensure safety and appropriateness for individual health conditions.
9. Vitex agnus-castus
Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chaste tree berry, is often used in herbal teas to support hormonal balance and may help alleviate symptoms associated with palpitations, particularly in women experiencing hormonal fluctuations.
The herb is believed to influence the pituitary gland and may regulate estrogen and prolactin levels, which can contribute to heart palpitations. While some studies suggest that vitex may reduce anxiety and stress, which are common triggers for palpitations, more research is needed to confirm its efficacy in this context. Herbal teas made from vitex are typically consumed as a calming remedy, often combined with other herbs like lemon balm or valerian root for enhanced effects.
As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before using vitex, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking medications.
10. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is often used in herbal teas to help alleviate symptoms of palpitations due to its calming and soothing properties.
The essential oils in lavender, such as linalool and lavandins, have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, which are common triggers for palpitations. Drinking lavender tea can promote relaxation and lower heart rate, offering a natural alternative for those seeking relief from irregular heartbeats. It is typically prepared by steeping dried lavender flowers in hot water, and it can be enjoyed either on its own or combined with other calming herbs like chamomile or lemon balm.
While lavender tea is generally safe, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using it as a treatment for palpitations, especially if underlying medical conditions are present.