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Last updated: Apr 11, 2024

10 best herbal teas for grief

During times of grief, a soothing cup of herbal tea can provide comfort and solace.

Rose petal tea, with its calming and heart-soothing properties, helps to ease emotional pain. Passionflower tea, known for its sedative effects, promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety, allowing for a peaceful state of mind. Lemon balm tea, with its uplifting and calming qualities, gently lifts the spirits and promotes a sense of tranquility.

These herbal teas, when sipped mindfully, offer a gentle respite from the overwhelming emotions that accompany grief.

1. Chamomile

Chamomile tea brings a measure of relief to those experiencing grief due to its inherent calming properties.

This soothing effect stems from the tea's ability to reduce anxiety and promote sleep, which are crucial for individuals navigating the challenges of bereavement. The herbal infusion's natural chemical composition includes apigenin, a potent antioxidant known to decrease inflammation in the brain, thereby alleviating some symptoms associated with grief. Furthermore, chamomile tea's warm and comforting nature fosters a sense of nurturance and emotional support, making it an ideal companion during these difficult times.

Lastly, regular consumption of chamomile tea contributes to overall well-being, fortifying both the body and the mind to better cope with the complexities of grief.

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

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

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

  1. Boil 8 ounces of water to a rolling boil, which typically takes around 3-5 minutes on a stovetop.
  2. Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers to a tea infuser or teapot, depending on desired strength.
  3. Pour the hot water over the chamomile flowers, allowing them to steep for 5-7 minutes for optimal flavor and health benefits.
  4. Remove the tea infuser or strain the chamomile flowers from the teapot.
  5. Serve the chamomile tea warm, optionally adding honey or lemon to taste, and enjoy as a calming and soothing beverage during times of grief.

2. Lavender

Lavender tea brings together the soothing properties of lavender, a flowering plant renowned for its calming effects.

This tea's fragrant aroma and mild flavor work together to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, providing comfort during times of grief. The calming effects of lavender tea further encourage improved sleep, a crucial factor in emotional healing. Additionally, lavender contains specific compounds that studies show can lessen symptoms of depression and improve mood, making it a valuable aid in the grieving process.

Ultimately, lavender tea's ability to alleviate stress, enhance sleep, and uplift mood offers solace and support for those navigating the challenging journey of grief.

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

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

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

  1. Boil 1 cup of water to a rolling temperature of 205-212°F for 1-3 minutes.
  2. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried organic culinary lavender flowers in the hot water for 5-7 minutes.
  3. Strain the lavender flowers from the tea using a fine mesh strainer or tea infuser.
  4. Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired.
  5. Sip the lavender tea slowly, breathing deeply and mindfully to alleviate grief.

3. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm tea contains rosmarinic acid, a compound with proven antidepressant and anxiolytic properties.

This substance increases the levels of neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine, which alleviate feelings of sadness and anxiety. Furthermore, lemon balm has been shown to reduce cortisol production, a hormone associated with stress. Additionally, this herbal tea provides a comforting and calming effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation during periods of grief.

Finally, lemon balm's soothing aroma and pleasant taste make it an appealing choice for those seeking solace and emotional support during difficult times.

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

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

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

  1. Harvest 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon balm leaves, crushing them gently to release their oils.
  2. Steep the crushed leaves in hot water (8 ounces) for 5-10 minutes.
  3. Remove the leaves from the water, squeezing out any excess liquid.
  4. Optional: Add honey or lemon to taste.
  5. Sip the tea slowly, allowing its soothing properties to help ease feelings of grief.

4. St. John'S Wort

St. John's Wort tea contains hypericin, a compound with documented mood-elevating properties.

This compound enhances the availability of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, in the brain. By increasing these neurotransmitters, St. John's Wort tea combats symptoms of grief like depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Furthermore, this herbal tea's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects soothe body aches and pains that often accompany intense emotions.

As a result, St. John's Wort tea brings about a calming effect, providing relief and assistance to those experiencing grief.

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

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

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

  1. Measure: Use 2 teaspoons of dried St. John's Wort flowers and leaves.
  2. Steep: Place the herbs in a tea infuser and steep in boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
  3. Strain: Remove the infuser and discard the spent herbs.
  4. Sweeten (optional): Add honey or sugar to taste.
  5. Serve: Drink the tea while warm, up to three cups a day for grief support.

5. Hawthorn

Hawthorn tea contains bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, that demonstrate therapeutic effects on the cardiovascular system.

These flavonoids stimulate the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which alleviates symptoms of depression and anxiety related to grief. Moreover, hawthorn tea supports the healthy functioning of the heart, a vital organ often affected by intense emotional stress brought on by loss. This herbal infusion further soothes inflammation in the body, helping to reduce physical symptoms of grief such as digestive issues or body aches.

Lastly, hawthorn tea promotes sound sleep, an essential factor in emotional healing and coping with bereavement.

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

The list below shows the primary active constituents in hawthorn tea that aid with grief.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hawthorn tea for grief.

  1. In a stove-top pot, combine 1 teaspoon of dried hawthorn berries and 1 cup of water, and bring to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the water to absorb the medicinal properties of the hawthorn.
  3. Strain the tea to remove the berries, and discard them.
  4. Optional: Add honey or lemon to taste, but avoid adding milk as it may interfere with the tea's benefits.
  5. Sip the hawthorn tea slowly, allowing it to soothe your emotions and provide comfort during times of grief.

6. Rosemary

Rosemary tea aids in grief relief due to its therapeutic properties.

This herbal tea contains carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid, which stimulate brain activity and improve mood. Rosemary also provides antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, reducing physiological stress. Moreover, it has a calming effect, promoting relaxation and alleviating anxiety associated with grief.

Lastly, rosemary tea enhances memory function, assisting in the coping process and treasuring fond memories of loved ones.

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

The list below shows the primary active constituents in rosemary tea that aid with grief.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary tea for grief.

  1. In a small pot, boil 1 cup of water for 3-5 minutes.
  2. Add 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary leaves to the boiling water, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  3. Remove pot from heat and let the tea steep for 10 minutes.
  4. Strain the tea to remove rosemary leaves, then add honey or lemon to taste.
  5. Sip the tea slowly, allowing it to soothe your emotions and provide comfort during your time of grief.

7. Holy Basil

Holy basil tea offers relief from grief through its inherent properties.

This herbal tea contains compounds that actively reduce anxiety and stress, common reactions to grief. By consuming holy basil tea, individuals benefit from its adaptogenic qualities, which strengthen the body's response to stress and promote balance. Furthermore, holy basil's soothing aroma and calming effects on the mind contribute to a relaxed state, fostering emotional well-being.

Additionally, this tea bolsters cognitive function, allowing for clearer thinking and better handling of emotional challenges during the grieving process.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in holy basil tea that help with grief.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in holy basil tea that aid with grief.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic holy basil tea for grief.

  1. In a pot, combine 1 cup of water and 1 teaspoon of dried holy basil leaves; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
  2. Remove pot from heat and let the tea steep for 10 minutes.
  3. Strain the tea to remove the basil leaves.
  4. Optional: add honey or lemon to taste.
  5. Sip the tea slowly, taking time to relax and reflect.

8. Skullcap

Skullcap tea contains bioactive compounds, notably scutellarin and flavonoids, that directly influence brain chemistry.

These components engage with brain receptors to prompt the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which elevate mood and lessen feelings of sadness. Moreover, skullcap tea provides a natural source of antioxidants, which play a crucial role in managing stress and anxiety levels, common experiences amidst grief. Furthermore, skullcap demonstrates adaptogenic properties, supporting the body's capacity to cope with emotional stressors, thereby fostering resilience in times of sorrow.

Finally, regular consumption of skullcap tea promotes improved sleep quality, a vital factor in processing emotions and recovering from the exhaustion of grieving.

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

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

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

  1. In a teapot, combine 1 teaspoon of crushed skullcap herb with 8 ounces of boiling water.
  2. Steep the skullcap in hot water for 10-15 minutes to allow the compounds to infuse.
  3. Strain the liquid to remove the solid skullcap herb particles.
  4. Optional: Add honey or lemon to taste for flavor enhancement.
  5. Consume the skullcap tea tea cautiously, up to three times a day, to help alleviate feelings of grief.

9. Passionflower

Passionflower tea contains harmala alkaloids, which inhibit the breakdown of the body's natural endorphins and enkephalins, thus increasing their levels and promoting feelings of well-being and reducing grief.

This herbal tea also possesses chrysin, a flavonoid that enhances gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, diminishing anxiety and depression associated with grief. Moreover, passionflower tea has apigenin, a bioflavonoid that binds to benzodiazepine sites in the brain, acting as a natural tranquilizer and assisting in alleviating sorrow. Furthermore, its antioxidant properties aid in reducing oxidative stress, often triggered by intense grief, leading to emotional balance.

Lastly, passionflower tea's soothing and calming properties, rooted in its historical use by Native Americans as a grief-relieving remedy, contribute to its effectiveness in managing and coping with grief.

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

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

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

  1. Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of dried passionflower leaves, sufficient for 1 cup of water.
  2. Pour boiling water over the passionflower leaves and let it steep for 5-10 minutes.
  3. Strain the tea to remove the leaves, leaving behind the liquid.
  4. Allow the tea to cool down to a drinkable temperature.
  5. Sip the passionflower tea slowly, enjoying its calming and soothing effects, which may help alleviate feelings of grief.

10. Valerian

Valerian tea contains compounds that impact neurotransmitters in the brain, specifically GABA, serotonin, and acetylcholine, all of which regulate emotions and mood.

These compounds interact with brain receptors to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, helping those experiencing grief by alleviating symptoms of stress and tension. Furthermore, valerian tea has a sedative effect that can improve sleep quality, which is often disrupted during periods of grief. Additionally, valerian's calming properties can help individuals manage the intense emotions associated with loss, providing a natural and gentle means of support.

Lastly, regular consumption of valerian tea supports the body's overall nervous system, fostering resilience and emotional balance during challenging times.

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

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

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

  1. In a stovetop kettle, boil 4 cups of water to 212 degrees Fahrenheit, which typically takes 10-15 minutes.
  2. Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried valerian root to a tea infuser or directly into the empty teapot.
  3. Once the water reaches the correct temperature, pour it over the valerian root in the teapot.
  4. Steep the tea for 5-10 minutes to extract the beneficial compounds.
  5. Remove the tea infuser or strain the tea into cups, discarding the valerian root, and serve the warm tea to help alleviate grief.

What is grief and how can it affect your life?

Grief is a profound emotional response to loss, characterized by feelings of sadness, yearning, and often, despair.

This natural reaction to the departure of a loved one, job, or significant aspect of life can impact people in many ways, such as disrupting sleep patterns, causing appetite loss, and diminishing concentration. Grief can lead to a diminished sense of self, a decline in overall well-being, and even temporary functional impairment in daily activities.

Moreover, it can influence one's ability to maintain relationships and fulfill social roles, potentially resulting in isolation and loneliness.

What other natural remedies help with grief?

Grief is a natural response to loss, and while it is an inevitable part of life, it can be an incredibly challenging experience.

Fortunately, there are several effective natural remedies for managing grief that have stood the test of time. One of the most common and effective natural remedies for grief is regular exercise. Physical activity releases endorphins, which are the body's natural mood elevators, and can help reduce feelings of sadness and anxiety.

Additionally, journaling is an excellent way to process emotions and gain insight into one's thoughts and feelings. Writing about experiences and emotions related to grief can help individuals gain a sense of control and clarity during a time of distress. Finally, mindfulness and meditation can help individuals focus on the present moment and reduce the intensity of negative emotions associated with grief.

These natural remedies, along with a supportive social network and professional guidance if needed, can help individuals navigate the grieving process and promote healing.