10 best herbal teas for depression

Herbal teas, such as St. John's Wort and chamomile, provide a natural remedy for depression.

St. John's Wort contains hypericin, a compound that influences mood-regulating chemicals in the brain. Chamomile tea has antidepressant properties due to its calming effects, which reduce anxiety and promote better sleep.

Both teas offer a caffeine-free, soothing alternative to traditional remedies for depression, providing a safe and time-tested method for managing this condition.

1. St. John'S Wort

St. John's wort tea contains hypericin and hyperforin, two compounds known to inhibit the reuptake of neurotransmitters serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.

By increasing the availability of these neurotransmitters in the brain, St. John's wort promotes mood regulation and alleviates depressive symptoms. This herbal tea also exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which contribute to its therapeutic effects on depression by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain. Furthermore, St. John's wort tea demonstrates a protective role in neurogenesis, the process of generating new neurons, enhancing neural connections and improving cognitive function.

It's important to note that St. John's wort interacts with various medications, so consulting a healthcare professional before starting this herbal remedy is advisable.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in st. john's wort tea that help with depression.

• Flowers: Contain high levels of hypericin and hyperforin, active compounds believed to help alleviate depression.
• Leaves: Rich in beneficial compounds, including hypericin and hyperforin, that contribute to the plant's antidepressant properties.
• Stems: Although less potent than flowers and leaves, stems still contain compounds that can aid in treating depression.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in st. john's wort tea that aid with depression.

• Hypericin: Inhibits the reuptake of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, which helps to balance neurotransmitter levels in the brain, alleviating depression symptoms.
• Hyperforin: Enhances neurotransmitter availability by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, thereby elevating mood and reducing depression.
• Flavonoids: Possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that protect brain cells from damage, supporting overall brain health and reducing depression.
• essential oils: Contribute to the overall synergistic effect of St. John's wort, possibly enhancing mood and reducing anxiety, although specific roles for individual components remain unclear.
• Melatonin: Regulates sleep-wake cycles, promoting restorative sleep and reducing symptoms of depression related to sleep disturbances.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st. john's wort tea for depression.

1. Measure 2 teaspoons of dried St. John's wort plant material.
2. Boil 8 ounces of water and pour over the St. John's wort.
3. Steep the tea for 10 minutes, then strain out the plant material.
4. Drink the tea, either hot or cold, up to three times a day.
5. Discard any remaining tea after 24 hours.

2. Lavender

Lavender tea delivers relief from depression due to its active ingredient, linalool, which possesses anxiolytic and antidepressant properties.

This natural remedy increases dopamine and serotonin levels, consequently uplifting mood and promoting happiness. Lavender tea also contains soothing qualities that decrease heart rate and blood pressure, fostering a sense of tranquility. Moreover, it enhances sleep quality, allowing individuals to experience restorative rest and improved emotional well-being.

Lastly, lavender tea's delightful aroma and taste provide a pleasurable sensory experience, further alleviating anxiety and contributing to overall mental health.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in lavender tea that help with depression.

• Flowers: Contain essential oils and have calming properties that help alleviate symptoms of depression.
• Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and volatile oils, known to reduce anxiety and stress related to depression.
• Buds: High in flavonoids and terpenes, shown to improve mood and promote relaxation.
• Stems: Contribute to the plant's overall soothing effect, aiding in the relief of depression-related symptoms.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lavender tea that aid with depression.

• Linalool: This terpene alcohol is known for its relaxing and calming properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression.
• Limonene: This aromatic compound has mood-elevating and anxiety-reducing effects, making it beneficial for people dealing with depression.
• Eucalyptol: With its ability to reduce mental exhaustion and improve cognitive function, eucalyptol can help combat depression-related fatigue and brain fog.
• Caryophyllene: This sesquiterpene exhibits antidepressant properties, possibly by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system.
• Falcarinol: This polyacetylene has been shown to have antidepressant-like effects, likely through its interaction with neurotransmitter systems.
• Rosmarinic acid: As a potent antioxidant, rosmarinic acid helps protect brain cells from oxidative stress, which is associated with depression.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lavender tea for depression.

1. Boil 1 cup of water to 212°F (100°C) for 1-2 minutes.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of dried organic culinary lavender flowers to a tea infuser.
3. Place the tea infuser in a cup and pour the hot water over it.
4. Steep the lavender in the hot water for 5-7 minutes to extract the aromatic compounds.
5. Remove the tea infuser and enjoy the soothing lavender tea, preferably without added sugar, as a natural mood booster.

3. Chamomile

Chamomile tea holds therapeutic properties, including apigenin and luteolin, that directly bind to brain receptors promoting relaxation.

By drinking chamomile tea, individuals experience reduced anxiety and improved sleep, contributing to an overall balanced emotional state. This herbal infusion further supports the production of certain neurotransmitters, like serotonin, that alleviate depressive symptoms. Regular consumption of chamomile tea provides a natural and holistic approach to depression management while complementing other treatment methods.

The calming effects of chamomile tea bring comfort and solace, fostering mental well-being in those grappling with depression.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in chamomile tea that help with depression.

• Flowers: Contain flavonoids that bind to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
• Leaves: Rich in volatile oils that possess sedative and antidepressant properties, offering relief from depression symptoms.
• Seeds: Packed with antioxidants and essential oils that help support a healthy nervous system, alleviating depressive episodes.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile tea that aid with depression.

• Apigenin: A flavonoid that binds to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain, helping to reduce anxiety and promote sleep.
• Chamazulene: A terpene with anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate depressive symptoms caused by inflammation.
• Bisabolol: A sesquiterpene alcohol with anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and calming effects, helping to soothe nerves and reduce anxiety.
• Matricin: A precursor to chamazulene, with anti-inflammatory properties that help to alleviate depressive symptoms caused by inflammation.
• Spiroether: A compound that enhances the absorption of other medicinal constituents, increasing the overall effectiveness of chamomile tea in treating depression.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid with antioxidant properties that help to protect the brain from oxidative stress, reducing depressive symptoms caused by oxidative damage.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to alleviate depressive symptoms caused by inflammation and oxidative damage.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile tea for depression.

1. Boil 8 ounces of water to 212°F, then pour over 1-2 tablespoons of dried chamomile flowers.
2. Steep for 5-10 minutes to extract the herb's beneficial compounds.
3. Strain the tea to remove the chamomile flowers, retaining only the liquid.
4. Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired, for added soothing or tangy flavors.
5. Drink the chamomile tea while warm, slowly sipping to promote calmness and relaxation.

4. Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba tea aids in depression by directly influencing neurotransmitter activity.

This tea contains terpene lactones and flavonoids, which increase the availability of serotonin and noradrenaline in the brain. By doing so, ginkgo biloba tea bolsters mood regulation and cognitive function, combating symptoms of depression. Furthermore, this herbal tea improves cerebral blood flow, enhancing overall brain health and alleviating depression-related issues.

Finally, ginkgo biloba tea boasts antioxidant properties, protecting neural tissues from oxidative stress and supporting emotional well-being.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in ginkgo biloba tea that help with depression.

• Leaves: Contain high levels of flavonoids, which are antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and improve brain function, potentially alleviating symptoms of depression.
• Seeds: Rich in terpene trilactones, which are thought to have a calming effect on the nervous system, possibly helping to reduce stress and anxiety associated with depression.
• Bark: Contains ginkgolides, unique compounds that have been shown to improve circulation and increase blood flow to the brain, potentially enhancing mood and cognitive function in people with depression.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginkgo biloba tea that aid with depression.

• Flavonoids: These are powerful antioxidants that protect the brain from damage, improving brain function and alleviating depression.
• Terpene Lactones: This constituent, specifically Ginkgolide B, has a significant impact on depression by inhibiting the Platelet-Activating Factor (PAF), which plays a crucial role in depression.
• Proanthocyanidins: These are antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are linked to depression.
• Bilobalide: This constituent protects the brain cells from damage and enhances cognitive function, helping to alleviate symptoms of depression.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginkgo biloba tea for depression.

1. Boil 8 ounces of water to 212 degrees Fahrenheit, then steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried ginkgo biloba leaves for 5-10 minutes.
2. Strain the tea to remove leaves, discarding them safely.
3. Let the tea cool down for 2-3 minutes if desired.
4. Pour the tea into a cup and add honey or lemon for taste if preferred.
5. Drink the tea immediately for optimal benefits, up to three times a day.

5. Passionflower

Passionflower tea contains harmala alkaloids, which inhibit the breakdown of essential neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.

This action leads to elevated levels of these mood-enhancing chemicals in the brain. Passionflower's flavonoids, including apigenin and luteolin, increase GABA levels, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

GABA also plays a crucial role in regulating dopamine and serotonin, further contributing to its antidepressant effects. Additionally, passionflower's antioxidants protect brain cells from oxidative stress, preserving their function and facilitating better neurotransmitter communication.

Therefore, passionflower tea's unique chemical composition directly impacts several biological factors that improve mood, making it an effective natural remedy for depression.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in passionflower tea that help with depression.

• Leaves: Contain flavonoids and antioxidants that help reduce anxiety and stress, alleviating depression symptoms.
• Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and essential oils that have a calming effect, helping to improve mood and combat depression.
• Stems: Contain bioactive compounds that help relieve stress and anxiety, easing depression symptoms.
• Buds: Packed with antioxidants and soothing properties, which can help uplift mood and provide relief for depression.
• Seeds: High in essential fatty acids that support brain health, helping to reduce inflammation and improve depression symptoms.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in passionflower tea that aid with depression.

• Flavonoids: These antioxidants protect brain cells from damage, helping to reduce symptoms of depression.
• Harman alkaloids: These compounds increase the levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which can improve mood and alleviate depression.
• Chrysin: This flavonoid has been shown to have antidepressant effects by modulating the brain's response to stress.
• Benzoflavone: This compound helps to reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression.
• Essential oils: The aromatic compounds in passionflower tea can help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can alleviate symptoms of depression.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic passionflower tea for depression.

1. Boil 1 cup of water to 212°F (100°C) for 1-2 minutes.
2. Add 1 teaspoon (2-4 grams) of dried passionflower leaves or 1 passionflower tea bag to the boiling water.
3. Steep the passionflower in the boiling water for 10-15 minutes to extract the medicinal compounds.
4. Strain the passionflower leaves or remove the tea bag from the water.
5. Drink the passionflower tea while it's still warm, up to 3 times daily, to help alleviate symptoms of depression.

6. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm tea contains rosmarinic acid, a compound that inhibits GABA transaminase, an enzyme that breaks down gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that regulates anxiety and depression.

By inhibiting this enzyme, lemon balm tea promotes increased GABA levels, which in turn alleviates anxiety and mild depression symptoms. Furthermore, lemon balm has antioxidant properties that protect brain cells from oxidative stress, contributing to overall brain health and emotional well-being. Additionally, it enhances mood by promoting feelings of calmness and boosting cognitive function.

Lastly, it has been shown in multiple studies that lemon balm's soothing effects aid sleep quality, which is crucial for mental health and overall well-being.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in lemon balm tea that help with depression.

• Leaves: Contain rosmarinic acid and eugenol, which have antidepressant properties.
• Flowers: Rich in antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress, a factor linked to depression.
• Stems: Contain essential oils and tannins that contribute to the calming effects of lemon balm tea.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemon balm tea that aid with depression.

• Rosmarinic acid: Possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are associated with depression.
• Eugenol: Exhibits anxiolytic and analgesic effects that can alleviate anxiety and pain, often co-occurring with depression.
• Citronellal: Acts as a nervine and relaxant, helping to promote relaxation and reduce symptoms of depression.
• Nerol: Functions as an antidepressant and antioxidant, helping to combat depressive symptoms and oxidative stress.
• Geraniol: Displays antidepressant and neuroprotective properties that can help protect the brain and improve mood.
• Caryophyllene: Offers anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, reducing anxiety and depressive symptoms.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm tea for depression.

1. Harvest 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon balm leaves, crushing them to release their oils.
2. Boil 1 cup of water and let it cool for 1 minute.
3. Place the crushed lemon balm leaves in a tea infuser and pour the hot water over them.
4. Steep the tea for 5-10 minutes, then remove the infuser.
5. Drink the lemon balm tea, preferably 2-3 times a day, to help alleviate symptoms of depression.

7. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha tea combats depression by reducing cortisol levels, a hormone that the body generates in response to stress.

This herbal tea's adaptogenic properties enable it to help the body manage and adapt to stress, promoting emotional balance and stability. By increasing the brain's GABA levels, ashwagandha tea encourages relaxation and a sense of calm, thereby alleviating depressive symptoms. Furthermore, this tea's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities improve overall brain health, enhancing mood and emotional well-being.

Lastly, numerous scientific studies validate the effectiveness of ashwagandha in treating depression, demonstrating its therapeutic potential in managing this mental health disorder.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in ashwagandha tea that help with depression.

• Roots: Contain withanolides, which have been shown to reduce anxiety and depression.
• Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and can help to reduce stress and improve mood.
• Flowers: Have adaptogenic properties and can help the body to cope with stress, including depression.
• Seeds: Contain high levels of trigonelline, which has been shown to have antidepressant effects.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ashwagandha tea that aid with depression.

• Withanolides: These compounds found in ashwagandha tea possess adaptogenic properties that help the body cope with stress, aiding in depression treatment.
• Alkaloids: Ashwagandha tea contains alkaloids that influence neurotransmitter levels, improving mood and alleviating depressive symptoms.
• Sitoindosides: These compounds have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, contributing to the overall mood-enhancing properties of ashwagandha tea.
• Steroidal lactones: These lactones present in ashwagandha tea exhibit GABAergic activity, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety in depression.
• Flavonoids: These antioxidant compounds found in ashwagandha tea protect against oxidative stress, supporting overall brain health and mood regulation.
• Essential oils: The essential oils in ashwagandha tea, like fatty acids, contribute to the plant's calming effects, reducing stress and depressive symptoms.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha tea for depression.

1. Boil 2 cups of water for 5-10 minutes.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of dried ashwagandha root and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the solid remnants.
4. Stir in 1 teaspoon of honey for added sweetness (optional).
5. Drink the tea while warm, 1-2 times a day, to help manage depression.

8. Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola rosea tea combats depression by actively reducing fatigue and enhancing mental performance, as demonstrated in numerous scientific studies.

This adaptogenic herb contains unique compounds, rosavin and salidroside, which regulate stress-related hormones, thus alleviating depressive symptoms. Additionally, rhodiola rosea tea demonstrates neuroprotective properties, preserving brain function and fostering emotional well-being. Furthermore, it stimulates the release of serotonin and dopamine, promoting mood stability and overall mental health.

Lastly, its antioxidant qualities shield nerve cells from oxidative damage, contributing to improved mental resilience and emotional balance, ultimately helping to mitigate depression.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in rhodiola rosea tea that help with depression.

• Roots: Contain active components such as rosavin, rosin, and rosarin, known to improve symptoms of depression.
• Rhizomes: Rich in antioxidants and adaptogens, they aid in stress reduction and offer mild mood-enhancing effects.
• Leaves: Have high levels of rosavin, rosin, and rosarin, alleviating anxiety and supporting overall mental well-being.
• Flowers: Contain antidepressant compounds, which can help uplift mood, though less potent than roots or leaves.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in rhodiola rosea tea that aid with depression.

• Rosavin: Acts as a natural antidepressant by inhibiting the uptake of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.
• Rosmarinic acid: Possesses anti-inflammatory and antidepressant properties, which may alleviate depressive symptoms.
• Salidroside: Known for its neuroprotective and antidepressant effects, improves mood and cognitive function.
• Tyrosol: Enhances dopamine and noradrenaline levels, thereby reducing depressive symptoms.
• Gallic acid: Exhibits antioxidant and antidepressant properties, which may help to manage depression.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rhodiola rosea tea for depression.

1. Measure 2 teaspoons of dried Rhodiola rosea root using a measuring spoon.
2. Boil 1 cup of water in a kettle for 5-10 minutes.
3. Combine the Rhodiola rosea root and boiling water in a tea infuser for 10-15 minutes.
4. Pour the tea into a cup through a strainer, discarding the spent root.
5. Consume the tea, up to three times daily, to help manage depression symptoms.

9. Valerian

Valerian tea contains active compounds that directly affect the central nervous system, providing a calming effect on the brain.

These compounds include valerenic acid, isovaleric acid, and a variety of antioxidants. By interacting with GABA receptors in the brain, valerian tea promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety, both common symptoms of depression.

Additionally, valerian tea helps improve the quality of sleep, allowing individuals to experience deeper and more restorative sleep. In turn, better sleep leads to improved emotional regulation and mood stability.

Overall, the physiological effects of valerian tea on the central nervous system and sleep patterns contribute to its ability to alleviate depression.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in valerian tea that help with depression.

• Roots: Contain active compounds such as valerenic acid, which have sedative and anxiety-reducing effects.
• Rhizomes: Rich in antioxidants and adaptogenic properties, supporting the body's stress response and promoting relaxation.
• Flowers: Provide volatile oils, like bornyl acetate, that contribute to the calming and soothing effects of valerian tea.
• Leaves: Contain essential oils and flavonoids with mild tranquilizing properties, aiding in the reduction of symptoms associated with depression.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in valerian tea that aid with depression.

• Valerenic acid: Activates GABA receptors in the brain to reduce anxiety and promote calmness.
• Valepotriates: Possess antidepressant properties by inhibiting the uptake of neurotransmitters in the brain.
• Hydroxyvaleronically acid: Exhibits anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce inflammation associated with depression.
• Bornyl acetate: Enhances GABAergic activity, which can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
• Flavanoids: Contribute to the overall sedative effect, helping to improve sleep quality and reduce depressive symptoms.
• Miscellaneous sesquiterpenes: Contribute to the overall therapeutic effect of valerian for depression by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian tea for depression.

1. In a teapot, combine 1 teaspoon of dried valerian root with 8 ounces of boiling water.
2. Steep the mixture for 10 minutes, allowing the water to absorb the valerian's properties.
3. Strain the tea to remove the valerian root, leaving behind only the liquid.
4. Optionally, add honey or lemon to taste for improved flavor.
5. Consume the tea, either hot or cold, up to three times a day for relief from depression symptoms.

10. Skullcap

Skullcap tea contains compounds that directly affect the central nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

This herbal tea's antidepressant properties stem from its ability to increase the levels of dopamine and serotonin, two neurotransmitters responsible for mood regulation. Furthermore, skullcap tea offers a natural remedy that strengthens the body's response to stress without causing dependency or severe side effects. Additionally, it alleviates symptoms of depression by improving sleep quality and regulating circadian rhythms.

The consistent use of skullcap tea helps users maintain emotional balance and overall mental well-being.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in skullcap tea that help with depression.

• Leaves: Contain high levels of antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and improve mood.
• Flowers: Rich in flavonoids, known to have a calming effect on the nervous system and alleviate symptoms of depression.
• Buds: Packed with essential oils that have a soothing effect on the mind and body, reducing anxiety and stress.
• Stems: Contain beneficial compounds that support overall brain health, leading to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression.
• Seeds: High in omega-3 fatty acids that are crucial for maintaining brain function and alleviating depression.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in skullcap tea that aid with depression.

• Flavonoids: These antioxidants help reduce inflammation and improve mood by increasing the levels of "feel-good" chemicals in the brain.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have antidepressant-like effects, which help regulate mood and alleviate symptoms of depression.
• Volatile oils: They contain sedative and antispasmodic properties that help relieve anxiety, stress, and depression-related tension.
• Iridoids: Bitter iridoids in skullcap tea, like loganic acid, have a positive influence on the nervous system, reducing stress and depressive symptoms.
• Tannins: These astringent compounds have a calming effect on the nervous system, and they help promote relaxation and mental well-being.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic skullcap tea for depression.

1. Measure 2 teaspoons of dried skullcap herb, crushing it slightly to release its oils.
2. Boil 1 cup of water and let it cool for 1 minute to prevent the delicate properties of skullcap from evaporating.
3. Pour the hot water over the skullcap in a tea infuser or a heat-resistant container.
4. Steep the mixture for 10 minutes to allow the herb to release its compounds.
5. Strain the liquid, discard the solids, and enjoy your skullcap tea, preferably in the morning or early afternoon.