10 Best Herbal Teas For Anxiety

Herbal teas for anxiety are calming infusions made from plants and flowers that promote relaxation and reduce stress levels.

These teas help alleviate anxiety by promoting a sense of calm, reducing muscle tension, and regulating emotions. Examples include chamomile, lavender, and peppermint teas, which have been shown to improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety symptoms, and enhance overall well-being.

Regular consumption can improve lives by reducing anxiety-related symptoms, promoting relaxation, and increasing productivity.

The following article describes in detail the most important teas for anxiety, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Passiflora incarnata

Passiflora incarnata, also known as maypop, teas helps with anxiety because it contains flavonoids, alkaloids, and glycosides that promote relaxation and calmness.

The tea's active compounds, such as passifloric acid and granatin B, interact with neurotransmitters to reduce stress and anxiety. By regulating the body's response to stress, Passiflora incarnata tea can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, promoting a sense of well-being and calmness in individuals who consume it.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to soothe the mind and body.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata teas that help with anxiety.

• Harmane: Harmane is a beta-carboline alkaloid that has been shown to have anxiolytic effects by interacting with GABA receptors in the brain, leading to a calming and relaxing effect.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Passiflora incarnata teas have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce anxiety by modulating stress response and promoting relaxation.
• Isovitexin: Isovitexin, a flavonoid glycoside, has been found to possess anxiolytic and sedative properties, likely due to its ability to modulate the activity of neurotransmitters involved in anxiety regulation, such as GABA and serotonin.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make teas for anxiety.

• Leaves: The leaves of Passiflora incarnata are commonly used to make teas for anxiety due to their high content of flavonoids and alkaloids, which have a calming effect on the nervous system.
• Flowers: The flowers of Passiflora incarnata are often used in teas to alleviate anxiety symptoms, as they contain a combination of flavonoids, alkaloids, and other bioactive compounds that promote relaxation.
• Roots: The roots of Passiflora incarnata are used in teas to help manage anxiety, as they contain a high concentration of passifloric acid, a compound that has been shown to have anxiolytic properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for anxiety.

1. Harvest passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves when they are in full bloom and dry them completely in the sun for several days.
2. Crush 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
3. Steep the powder in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes to release the active compounds.
4. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids immediately.
5. Serve the tea warm or at room temperature immediately after preparation and consume within 30 minutes.

2. Piper methysticum

Piper methysticum, also known as kava, teas helps with anxiety because its active compounds, such as kavalactones, interact with the brain's GABA receptors.

This interaction increases the production of the neurotransmitter GABA, which has a calming effect on the nervous system. As a result, kava tea can promote relaxation, reduce stress and anxiety levels, and improve overall mood.

Additionally, traditional cultures have used kava for centuries to treat anxiety and promote restful sleep, supporting its effectiveness in modern herbal remedies.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Piper methysticum teas that help with anxiety.

• Kavalactones: Kavalactones, particularly kawain, dihydrokawain, and methysticin, are responsible for the anxiolytic effects of Kava, as they interact with GABA receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
• Flavokawains: Flavokawains, including flavokawain A and B, have been shown to possess anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in reducing anxiety by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
• Kavapyrones: Kavapyrones, such as dihydrokavain and isokavain, have been found to possess anxiolytic and sedative effects, which help in reducing anxiety by interacting with the GABA receptors and inhibiting the activity of the central nervous system.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kava used to make teas for anxiety.

• Roots: The roots are often used due to their high concentration of kavalactones, which are believed to have anxiolytic properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are commonly used to make teas as they contain a significant amount of kavalactones, helping to alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation.
• Stems: The stems are sometimes used, although less frequently than the roots and leaves, as they also contain kavalactones and may offer similar benefits.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kava for anxiety.

1. Gather 1/2 cup of dried piper methysticum leaves and flowers and store them in an airtight container.
2. Boil 1 quart of water in a pot and reduce heat to a simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add 2-3 teaspoons of the dried piper methysticum mixture to the simmering water and steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth and discard the solids.
5. Allow the tea to cool for 2-3 minutes before serving and consuming it immediately.

3. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, teas helps with anxiety because it contains calming compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate, which have a soothing effect on the mind and body.

Drinking lavender tea can promote relaxation, reduce stress levels, and improve sleep quality.

The tea's calming properties also help to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, such as racing thoughts and restlessness, by promoting a sense of calm and tranquility, allowing individuals to feel more grounded and at ease.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia teas that help with anxiety.

• Linalool: This terpene acts as a GABA receptor agonist, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety by enhancing the calming effects of the neurotransmitter GABA.
• Linalyl acetate: This terpene has sedative and anxiolytic properties, helping to reduce anxiety and stress by binding to GABA receptors and inducing a calming effect.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid exhibits anxiolytic and sedative properties by acting as a GABA receptor agonist and inhibiting the activity of enzymes involved in the production of anxiety-related neurotransmitters.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make teas for anxiety.

• Flowers: The flowers are the most commonly used part to make anxiety-reducing teas due to their calming effects and high concentration of essential oils like linalool and linalyl acetate.
• Leaves: The leaves are another popular choice for anxiety teas, as they contain many of the same calming compounds as the flowers and can be used to make a more subtle tea.
• Stems: Some herbal teas use the stems of Lavandula angustifolia for their anxiety-relieving properties, as they contain smaller amounts of calming essential oils and other compounds.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for anxiety.

1. Gather 2 tablespoons of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers for a single serving of tea.
2. Boil 1 cup of fresh water in a kettle for 5 minutes to reach optimal temperature.
3. Pour the boiling water over the dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in a teapot.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse properly.
5. Strain the tea into a cup and discard the lavandula angustifolia flowers immediately afterwards.

4. Humulus lupulus

Humulus lupulus, also known as hops, teas helps with anxiety because of its unique combination of flavonoids and bitter acids, which interact with the brain's GABA receptors to promote relaxation and reduce stress.

The tea's sedative properties also help to calm the nervous system, while its antioxidant properties may help to mitigate the effects of cortisol, a hormone associated with anxiety.

This synergy can lead to a sense of calm and tranquility, making Humulus lupulus a natural remedy for anxiety.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Humulus lupulus teas that help with anxiety.

• Lupulone: A sesquiterpene with anxiolytic and sedative properties, which helps reduce anxiety by promoting relaxation and calming the nervous system.
• Humulone: A sesquiterpene with anti-anxiety effects, which helps alleviate anxiety symptoms by inhibiting the activity of neurotransmitters involved in stress and anxiety responses.
• Xanthohumol: A prenylated chalcone with anxiolytic and antioxidant properties, which helps reduce anxiety and stress by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters and protecting against oxidative damage.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of hops used to make teas for anxiety.

• Flowers: They are used due to their high content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which have a calming effect on the nervous system.
• Leaves: They are used as they contain humulone, a compound that helps to reduce anxiety and stress by promoting relaxation.
• Stems: They are used, although less commonly, as they also contain humulone and other compounds that contribute to the tea's anxiety-relieving properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hops for anxiety.

1. Harvest 20-30 flowers of dried humulus lupulus at 8 am in the morning when they are most fragrant.
2. Dry the flowers in a single layer for 2-3 hours in a warm place at 30-40 degrees celsius.
3. Combine 1 tablespoon of dried flowers with 250ml of boiling water to make a strong infusion.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors and properties to be fully extracted.
5. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and serve immediately while warm.

5. Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, teas helps with anxiety because it promotes relaxation and calms the mind.

The root of the valerian plant contains a unique blend of compounds that interact with the brain's neurotransmitters, regulating stress hormones and promoting a sense of calm. By reducing anxiety and stress, valerian tea allows individuals to unwind and prepare for a restful night's sleep.

Its soothing effects also help alleviate symptoms of insomnia and promote overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis teas that help with anxiety.

• Valerenic acid: Valerenic acid, a sesquiterpene, has been shown to possess anxiolytic and sedative properties, helping to reduce anxiety by regulating the GABA receptor system in the brain.
• Isovaleric acid: Isovaleric acid, a branched-chain fatty acid, has been found to have a calming effect and reduce anxiety by modulating the GABA receptor system and other neurotransmitter pathways.
• Valeranone: Valeranone, a sesquiterpene, has been reported to possess sedative and anxiolytic properties, helping to alleviate anxiety by regulating the GABA receptor system and reducing stress-induced cortisol levels.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make teas for anxiety.

• Roots: The roots of Valeriana officinalis are the most commonly used part for teas due to their high concentration of valerenic acid, a key compound responsible for its anxiolytic properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are another commonly used part, which may be used in teas due to their lower cost compared to roots and their similar, though less potent, anxiolytic effects.
• Stems: The stems, like the leaves, are sometimes used due to their accessibility and lower cost, although they may have even less potency than the roots and leaves.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh valeriana officinalis roots in the early morning after the dew has dried for optimal flavor.
2. Clean 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried root or 2 to 3 teaspoons of fresh root material thoroughly.
3. Steep the root material in 1 quart of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes.
4. Strain the tea and discard the solids immediately to prevent bitterness from developing.
5. Store the cooled tea in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours for best flavor and safety.

6. Matricaria chamomilla

Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, teas helps with anxiety because it contains apigenin, a flavonoid that binds to GABA receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and calming effects.

The tea's soothing properties also help to reduce inflammation and promote better sleep quality, which are often linked to anxiety.

Additionally, the calming aroma of chamomile tea can have a direct impact on the brain, reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm, making it a popular natural remedy for anxiety relief.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla teas that help with anxiety.

• Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as a GABA receptor agonist, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety by enhancing the activity of neurotransmitters that calm the nervous system.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid has anxiolytic and sedative properties, exerting its effects by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters such as GABA and glutamate, and by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Α-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene has a sedative effect, inducing relaxation and reducing anxiety by slowing down the nervous system and promoting a sense of calm.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make teas for anxiety.

• Flowers: They are used to make teas for anxiety due to their high content of apigenin and luteolin, which have a soothing and calming effect on the nervous system.
• Leaves: They are used to make teas for anxiety due to their ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
• Seeds: They are not as commonly used as flowers, however, the seeds are sometimes used for their sedative properties.
• Flowers: They are used to make teas for anxiety due to their high content of apigenin and luteolin, which have a soothing and calming effect on the nervous system.
• Leaves: They are used to make teas for anxiety due to their ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 dried flowers from the matricaria chamomilla plant for a standard serving amount.
2. Gently crush the dried flowers using mortar and pestle to release their essential oils.
3. Steep the crushed flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to infuse.
4. Strain the tea mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the flower residue.
5. Store the prepared tea in an airtight container for up to 24 hours before consumption.

7. Scutellaria baicalensis

Scutellaria baicalensis, also known as skullcap, teas helps with anxiety because of its unique blend of flavonoids and baicalein compounds.

These natural chemicals have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing feelings of restlessness and stress. By promoting relaxation and balancing the body's energy, Scutellaria baicalensis tea can help alleviate anxiety symptoms, promoting a sense of calm and well-being. Its soothing properties make it a popular natural remedy for anxiety relief and overall emotional balance.

Regular consumption may also enhance mood stability.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Scutellaria baicalensis teas that help with anxiety.

• Baicalin: Baicalin has a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters and regulating the stress response.
• Baicalein: Baicalein has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate anxiety by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.
• Wogonin: Wogonin has a sedative effect on the central nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety by enhancing the activity of neurotransmitters that regulate mood and emotional response.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of skullcap used to make teas for anxiety.

• Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part, as they contain the highest concentration of active compounds that help to reduce anxiety.
• Leaves: The leaves are also a popular choice for anxiety teas, as they provide a milder yet still effective alternative to the roots.
• Flowers: The flowers of Scutellaria baicalensis are sometimes used to make teas, offering a more delicate and soothing experience for individuals with anxiety.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest scutellaria baicalensis roots in the fall when the plant is dormant for best quality.
2. Dry the harvested roots in a warm dry place for 2-3 weeks to remove moisture.
3. Chop the dried roots into small pieces weighing about 3-5 grams for each serving.
4. Steep the chopped roots in 250ml of boiling water for 5-10 minutes to release the active compounds.
5. Strain the tea and discard the solids to enjoy the herbal scutellaria baicalensis tea immediately.

8. Leonurus sibiricus

Leonurus sibiricus, also known as motherwort, teas helps with anxiety because of its calming and soothing properties.

The herb contains flavonoids and iridoid glycosides, which have been shown to have a sedative effect on the nervous system, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. The tea's ability to balance the body's energy and calm the mind makes it an effective natural remedy for individuals experiencing anxiety.

Additionally, its adaptogenic properties help the body adapt to stress, promoting overall well-being and relaxation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Leonurus sibiricus teas that help with anxiety.

• Leonurine: A type of alkaloid, leonurine has been shown to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects by acting on the central nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds, particularly leonuride, have been found to possess anxiolytic and sedative properties, helping to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety symptoms.
• Triterpenoids: Specifically, the triterpenoid leonuricoside has been reported to have anxiolytic and anti-stress effects, possibly by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters and hormones that regulate mood and anxiety.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of motherwort used to make teas for anxiety.

• Leaves: They are used to make teas due to their high content of phenolic compounds, which have been shown to have anxiolytic properties.
• Flowers: The flowers are used to make teas as they are rich in flavonoids, which can help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
• Seeds: The seeds are used to make teas due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly borneol, which has a sedative effect and can help to alleviate anxiety.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic motherwort for anxiety.

1. Harvest 25 grams of fresh leonurus sibiricus leaves and flowers in the morning for optimal potency.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a single layer for 24 to 48 hours in a low-temperature oven.
3. Grind 5 grams of the dried plant material into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of the ground plant material in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea and let it cool to room temperature before consumption within 30 minutes.

9. Tilia platyphyllos

Tilia platyphyllos, also known as broad-leaved lime, teas helps with anxiety because it promotes relaxation and calmness through its sedative properties.

The tea contains flavonoids and sesquiterpenes that help to reduce stress levels and anxiety by slowing down the heart rate and promoting a sense of tranquility.

Additionally, Tilia platyphyllos tea has been shown to have a positive effect on mood and cognitive function, making it a popular natural remedy for managing anxiety and promoting overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia platyphyllos teas that help with anxiety.

• Flavonoids: These compounds help with anxiety by promoting relaxation and reducing stress through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to a sense of calmness and reduced anxiety symptoms.
• Terpenes: Borneol, a terpene found in Tilia platyphyllos, has a sedative effect that can help reduce anxiety by promoting relaxation and calming the nervous system, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
• Iridoid glycosides: Tiliroside, an iridoid glycoside found in Tilia platyphyllos, has a sedative effect and may help reduce anxiety by promoting relaxation and reducing the production of stress hormones like cortisol, leading to a sense of calmness and reduced anxiety symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of broad-leaved lime used to make teas for anxiety.

• Leaves: They are used due to their calming and sedative properties, which help to soothe anxiety and promote relaxation.
• Buds: The buds are used for their gentle, anti-anxiety effects, which can help to reduce stress and promote a sense of calm.
• Flowers: The flowers are used for their sweet, floral flavor and their ability to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety due to their sedative properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic broad-leaved lime for anxiety.

1. Harvest tilia platyphyllos flowers and leaves in late spring or early summer for optimal potency and flavor.
2. Dry the harvested flowers and leaves in a warm dry place for 1 to 2 weeks.
3. Use 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried tilia platyphyllos flowers and leaves per 8 oz cup of boiling water.
4. Steep the dried flowers and leaves in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release the herbal properties.
5. Strain the tea and enjoy immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

10. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with anxiety because of its adaptogenic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The flavonoids and glycosides present in licorice root tea have been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Additionally, licorice root tea may help regulate the body's stress response, leading to a decrease in anxiety symptoms.

Its soothing effects can also promote better sleep and overall well-being, further contributing to its anxiety-reducing benefits.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with anxiety.

• Flavonoids: These compounds have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety by promoting relaxation and improving mood.
• Saponins: Saponins, particularly glycyrrhizin, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate anxiety caused by inflammation in the body.
• Phenolic acids: These antioxidants may help reduce stress and anxiety by protecting against oxidative stress and promoting a sense of balance in the body.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for anxiety.

• Roots: Glycyrrhiza glabra roots are used to make teas for anxiety due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic properties.
• Leaves: Glycyrrhiza glabra leaves are used to make teas for anxiety because they contain flavonoids and saponins, which have a calming effect on the nervous system.
• Roots: Glycyrrhiza glabra roots are also used to make teas for anxiety due to their adaptogenic properties, which help the body adapt to stress and promote relaxation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for anxiety.

1. Harvest 20-30 roots of glycyrrhiza glabra from well-drained soil in late summer or early fall.
2. Clean the roots with cool water then dry them in a cool shaded area for 3-5 days.
3. Grind 2-3 grams of dried roots into fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
4. Steep 1 gram of powder in 250ml of boiling water for 5-7 minutes then strain the liquid.
5. Store the tea in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and consume cold.

What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for anxiety?

The best combination of herbal teas that help with anxiety is a blend of chamomile, lavender, and passionflower.

Chamomile soothes the mind and body, reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Lavender calms the nervous system, while passionflower reduces anxiety symptoms by regulating the brain's neurotransmitters. This combination works synergistically to alleviate anxiety, promoting a peaceful and calm state.

Drinking this blend before bed or during times of stress can help alleviate anxiety and promote a restful night's sleep.

What ailments similar to anxiety are treated with herbal teas?

Ailments similar to anxiety/teas.html">anxiety/teas.html">anxiety that are treated with herbal teas are stress, insomnia, restlessness, and depression.

Chamomile tea is often used to calm the mind and promote relaxation, while lavender tea helps soothe nerves and reduce anxiety symptoms. Valerian root tea is a natural sedative, helping to improve sleep quality, and St. John's Wort tea is used to treat mild depression and mood disorders.

These herbal teas can be consumed alone or combined with other herbs for a holistic approach to mental well-being.