10 Best Herbal Teas For Depression

Herbal teas for depression are natural infusions made from plants and herbs that have been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of depression.

These teas help by promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and improving mood. Examples include chamomile, lavender, and passionflower teas, which have a calming effect. St. John's Wort and lemon balm teas are also used to uplift mood.

Drinking these teas can improve sleep quality and reduce stress, leading to a better quality of life and increased resilience against depression.

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

1. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St. John's Wort, teas helps with depression because it contains bioactive compounds that interact with neurotransmitters in the brain.

The tea's active ingredients, including hypericin and hyperforin, have been shown to increase the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a crucial role in regulating mood.

By balancing these neurotransmitters, Hypericum perforatum tea may help alleviate symptoms of depression, promoting a sense of well-being and calmness in individuals who consume it regularly.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum teas that help with depression.

• Hyperforin: Hyperforin has shown antidepressant activity by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and other neurotransmitters, thereby increasing their availability in the synaptic cleft and alleviating depressive symptoms.
• Nortriptyline: Nortriptyline is an alkaloid that acts as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which helps to increase the levels of serotonin in the brain, thereby reducing symptoms of depression.
• Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid phenolic compound that has been shown to have antidepressant properties by modulating the activity of various neurotransmitters, including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are often imbalanced in individuals with depression.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make teas for depression.

• Leaves: They contain high levels of hyperforin, a key compound responsible for the antidepressant effects of the plant.
• Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and hyperforin, the flowers contribute to the plant's therapeutic properties and are often used for their calming and mood-enhancing effects.
• Buds: The buds contain a high concentration of hyperforin and other bioactive compounds, making them a valuable component in teas aimed at alleviating depression symptoms.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh hypericum perforatum flowers at the peak of their potency.
2. Dry the flowers using a food dehydrator at 105f for 3 hours.
3. Measure 1 teaspoon of dried flowers per 8 ounces of boiling water.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse.
5. Strain the tea and discard the solids to enjoy the herbal infusion.

2. Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, teas helps with depression because its unique combination of compounds, including valerenic acid and isovaleric acid, interacts with the brain's neurotransmitters.

This interaction can help regulate mood and reduce stress levels. The tea's sedative properties can also promote relaxation and improve sleep quality, which is often disrupted in individuals with depression.

By addressing the root causes of depression, valerian tea can provide a natural and holistic approach to managing symptoms and promoting overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Valerenic acid: Acts as a GABA receptor agonist, which helps increase the activity of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and GABA that play a crucial role in regulating mood and reducing anxiety and depression.
• Valeranone: Exhibits sedative and anxiolytic properties by acting as a GABA receptor agonist and inhibiting the reuptake of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, leading to a calming effect on the nervous system and alleviating symptoms of depression.
• Valeranone isomers: These compounds have been shown to possess anxiolytic and antidepressant properties by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, which helps to reduce stress and anxiety and improve mood.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: They contain the highest concentration of valerenic acid, which is responsible for the herb's sedative and anti-anxiety effects.
• Leaves: They have a lower concentration of valerenic acid than roots but are still used to make teas due to their sedative properties.

Recipe

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

1. Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried valeriana officinalis root and 1 cup of boiling water for brewing.
2. Steep the root in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes to allow for maximum extraction.
3. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the root particles.
4. Add honey or lemon to taste the tea and adjust the sweetness or flavor accordingly.
5. Drink the tea immediately and enjoy its calming and relaxing effects within 30 minutes to an hour.

3. Passiflora incarnata

Passiflora incarnata, also known as maypop, teas helps with depression because it contains flavonoids and alkaloids that interact with the brain's neurotransmitter system.

Studies have shown that the tea's active compounds, such as passiflorine and flavonoids, have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and stress levels. By promoting relaxation and reducing symptoms of anxiety, Passiflora incarnata tea may help alleviate depressive symptoms, providing a natural and holistic approach to managing mental health.

This herbal tea has been used for centuries to calm the mind and promote a sense of well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds have antioxidant properties, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, contributing to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression.
• Flavonoid glycosides: These flavonoid glycosides have been found to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and antidepressant properties, which may be attributed to their ability to modulate neurotransmitter activity and improve sleep quality.
• Harman alkaloids: These alkaloids have been shown to have antidepressant effects by influencing the activity of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, and by modulating the activity of the enzyme monoamine oxidase (MAO), which breaks down these neurotransmitters.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: Leaves are used to make teas for depression because they contain a high concentration of flavonoids, alkaloids, and glycosides that have a calming effect on the nervous system.
• Fruits: Fruits are used to make teas for depression because they are a rich source of antioxidants, flavonoids, and other bioactive compounds that have been shown to have antidepressant properties.
• Roots: Roots are used to make teas for depression because they contain a high concentration of passifloric acid and other compounds that have been shown to have a sedative and antidepressant effect.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh or dried passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves at dawn to ensure optimal potency and flavor.
2. Chop 2-3 teaspoons of dried passiflora incarnata flowers or 1/4 cup of fresh flowers into smaller pieces.
3. Combine the chopped passiflora incarnata with 8 oz of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Steep the passiflora incarnata mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors and oils to infuse.
5. Strain the tea and discard the solids before serving the passiflora incarnata tea hot or chilled.

4. Tilia europaea

Tilia europaea, also known as lime, teas helps with depression because of its calming and sedative properties, which can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and stress that often accompany depression.

The tea's flavonoids and terpenoids have been shown to have a positive impact on mood, reducing feelings of sadness and hopelessness.

By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, Tilia europaea tea may help individuals manage their depressive symptoms and improve overall mental well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia europaea teas that help with depression.

• Flavonoids: These compounds have been shown to possess anxiolytic and antidepressant properties, helping to alleviate symptoms of depression by modulating neurotransmitter activity and reducing inflammation in the brain.
• Terpenes: Specifically, terpenes like linalool and borneol in Tilia europaea have been found to have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety that can contribute to depressive symptoms.
• Phenylethanoid glycosides: These compounds have been reported to have a sedative effect, helping to reduce stress and anxiety, and may also have a direct impact on neurotransmitter activity, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of lime used to make teas for depression.

• Leaves: The leaves are used to make teas for depression as they contain flavonoids and tannins, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Flowers: The flowers are used to make teas for depression as they contain flavonoids and essential oils, which have a calming effect and can help reduce anxiety.
• Buds: The buds are used to make teas for depression as they contain flavonoids and other compounds that have a sedative effect and can help reduce stress.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 30g of tilia europaea flowers in late spring or early summer when the petals are fully open.
2. Clean the flowers thoroughly by rinsing them under cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Combine the cleaned flowers with 1l of boiling water and let it steep for 5-7 minutes to release the active compounds.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup to remove the solids and excess plant material.
5. Store the tea in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and consume it within 24 hours for optimal flavor and potency.

5. Melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, teas helps with depression because of its adaptogenic properties and natural ability to reduce stress and anxiety.

The tea contains compounds such as rosmarinic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help alleviate symptoms of depression.

Additionally, lemon balm's calming and mood-enhancing properties can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality, leading to a reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis teas that help with depression.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to depression by promoting a healthy mood and reducing symptoms of anxiety.
• Lemon balm acid: A terpene that has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
• Citral: A terpene that has a mood-elevating effect by inhibiting the activity of enzymes involved in the production of stress hormones, such as cortisol, helping to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make teas for depression.

• Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain high levels of essential oils, particularly citral and geraniol, which have a calming effect on the mind and body.
• Flowers: The flowers are used because they possess a soothing and gentle properties, helping to uplift mood and reduce anxiety related to depression.
• Stems: The stems are used because they contain a high concentration of rosmarinic acid, which has been shown to have a positive impact on mood and cognitive function.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest melissa officinalis leaves and flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Dry the harvested melissa leaves and flowers in a dehydrator at 40°c for 1-2 hours.
3. Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of dried melissa leaves and flowers for every 8 oz of boiling water.
4. Steep the dried melissa leaves and flowers in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the active compounds.
5. Strain the tea and serve it warm or chilled within 30 minutes of preparation.

6. Camellia sinensis

Camellia sinensis, also known as tea, teas helps with depression because of its unique combination of L-theanine, an amino acid, and antioxidants.

L-theanine promotes relaxation and reduces stress levels by regulating the brain's neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine. The antioxidants present in tea also help alleviate symptoms of depression by protecting the brain from oxidative damage.

This synergy of L-theanine and antioxidants in Camellia sinensis teas can help uplift mood and reduce feelings of sadness, providing a natural and soothing remedy for those struggling with depression.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis teas that help with depression.

• Catechins: These polyphenolic compounds have been shown to have antidepressant effects by modulating neurotransmitter levels, particularly serotonin and dopamine, which play a crucial role in mood regulation.
• Theaflavins: These flavonoids, produced during the fermentation process, have been found to possess anxiolytic and antidepressant properties by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, contributing to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression.
• L-theanine: This non-protein amino acid has been demonstrated to have a calming effect on the mind and body, reducing stress and anxiety levels by promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality, ultimately contributing to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make teas for depression.

• Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part of Camellia sinensis for teas, as they contain the highest amount of L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and reduces stress.
• Stems: Stems are used in some teas due to their high content of catechins, which have been shown to have antidepressant properties by reducing inflammation and improving mood.
• Buds: Buds are used in high-quality teas like white and green tea, as they contain a higher concentration of caffeine and antioxidants, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression by improving alertness and reducing oxidative stress.

Recipe

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

1. Steep 1 teaspoon of camellia sinensis leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 3 to 5 minutes.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a teapot or cup to remove loose leaves.
3. Discard the used leaves and add 1 teaspoon of honey or sugar to sweeten the tea if desired.
4. Stir the mixture well to dissolve the honey or sugar and let it steep for another minute.
5. Serve the camellia sinensis tea immediately and enjoy its unique flavor and potential health benefits.

7. Cymbopogon citratus

Cymbopogon citratus, also known as lemongrass, teas helps with depression because of its unique combination of active compounds and essential oils.

The tea's citrus scent and flavor can uplift mood, while its antioxidants and flavonoids have been shown to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels.

The tea's ability to regulate the body's natural balance and promote a sense of calm can also help alleviate symptoms of depression, making it a popular natural remedy for those seeking a holistic approach to managing their mental health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus teas that help with depression.

• Citral: This terpene helps reduce symptoms of depression by influencing neurotransmitter activity, particularly serotonin and dopamine, which play a crucial role in regulating mood.
• Limonene: A terpene found in Cymbopogon citratus, limonene has been shown to possess antidepressant properties by promoting the activity of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, and by reducing inflammation, which can contribute to depression.
• Linalool: A sesquiterpene with anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, linalool helps alleviate symptoms of depression by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters, like serotonin and GABA, which are involved in regulating mood and stress response.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make teas for depression.

• Leaves: The essential oils in the leaves, particularly limonene and beta-pinene, have been found to have antidepressant properties.
• Rhyzomes: The rhizomes contain citral, a compound that has been shown to have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects.
• Stems: The stems of Cymbopogon citratus also contain essential oils with antidepressant properties, such as limonene and beta-pinene, which may help alleviate symptoms of depression.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest a handful of fresh cymbopogon citratus stems for an average yield of 1 cup of tea.
2. Rinse the harvested stems under cold running water for a duration of 30 seconds to 1 minute.
3. Chop the stems into small pieces and add 1 teaspoon of the chopped material to 1 cup of boiling water.
4. Allow the chopped material to steep in the boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes or until the desired strength is reached.
5. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids and discard the solids.

8. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with depression because it contains flavonoids and isoflavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

These compounds may help reduce stress and anxiety by promoting a balanced cortisol level in the body. Additionally, licorice root has been traditionally used to boost mood and alleviate symptoms of depression, such as fatigue and low motivation.

The soothing effects of licorice tea may also promote relaxation and improve sleep quality, further contributing to its potential antidepressant properties.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: A triterpenoid saponin that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, which may help alleviate symptoms of depression by reducing inflammation and promoting brain health.
• Licopyranocoumarin: A phenolic compound with antioxidant properties, which may help protect the brain from oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially contributing to the reduction of depressive symptoms.
• Isoliquiritigenin: A flavonoid with neuroprotective and antidepressant effects, which may help regulate mood and reduce symptoms of depression by influencing neurotransmitter activity and neuroinflammation.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: They are used due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound that has been shown to have anti-depressant properties.
• Leaves: They are used for their mild sedative and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression.
• Flowers: They are used for their soothing and calming effects, which can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, both of which are often associated with depression.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 50g of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots for tea making.
2. Rinse the roots with cold water then chop them into small pieces.
3. Steep 5-7g of chopped roots in 250ml of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the roots.
5. Store the tea in a cool dry place for up to 3 days after preparation.

9. Rosa damascena

Rosa damascena, also known as damask rose, teas helps with depression because it possesses a unique combination of properties that promote mental well-being.

The tea's calming effects are attributed to its high concentration of geraniol and linalool, which have a sedative and anti-anxiety impact. Additionally, rose petals contain a wealth of antioxidants and flavonoids that help to stabilize mood and reduce stress levels.

By promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, Rosa damascena tea can help alleviate symptoms of depression and promote a sense of calm and serenity.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosa damascena teas that help with depression.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has been shown to have a neuroprotective effect, helping to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, which are associated with depressive symptoms.
• Geraniol: This terpene has been found to have anxiolytic and sedative properties, helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which are common symptoms of depression.
• Linalool: This terpene has been shown to have a positive effect on mood, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and promoting feelings of calmness and relaxation.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of damask rose used to make teas for depression.

• Flowers: They are rich in essential oils, particularly geraniol, which is known for its antidepressant properties.
• Leaves: They contain antioxidants and flavonoids that help reduce stress and anxiety, contributing to their use in teas for depression.
• Buds: They are a rich source of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have been shown to have a positive impact on mood and cognitive function.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic damask rose for depression.

1. Gather 2 teaspoons of dried rosa damascena flowers, 1 teaspoon of dried flowers of another fragrant plant, and boiling water.
2. Steep the dried flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release their fragrance and flavor.
3. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids.
4. Add honey to taste, typically 1-2 teaspoons per cup of tea, to sweeten the flavor.
5. Serve the tea immediately, garnished with additional dried flowers if desired, and enjoy its floral aroma.

10. Artemisia annua

Artemisia annua, also known as sweet annie, teas helps with depression because it contains artemisinin, a compound that promotes the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.

This can help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. Additionally, the tea's anti-inflammatory properties may help alleviate underlying inflammation that can contribute to depression.

The tea's calming effects may also help reduce stress and anxiety, making it easier to cope with depressive episodes and promoting overall mental well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia annua teas that help with depression.

• Artemisinin: This sesquiterpene lactone has been shown to have antidepressant effects by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a crucial role in regulating mood.
• Artemetin: This flavonoid compound has been found to have anxiolytic and antidepressant properties, which may be attributed to its ability to inhibit the activity of enzymes involved in the breakdown of neurotransmitters, thereby increasing their availability in the brain.
• Oleanolic acid: This triterpenoid saponin has been reported to possess antidepressant effects by modulating the activity of monoamine oxidase (MAO) enzymes, which break down neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, and thereby increasing their availability in the brain.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of sweet annie used to make teas for depression.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high content of artemisinin, which has antidepressant properties.
• Stems: They are used for their ability to provide a sustained release of artemisinin, allowing for a longer-lasting effect.
• Buds: They are used due to their high concentration of artemisinin and other bioactive compounds that contribute to their antidepressant effects.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sweet annie for depression.

1. Harvest 10-20 grams of dried artemisia annua leaves and flowers to make herbal tea.
2. Boil 250ml of water in a kettle for 5 minutes to prepare it for infusion.
3. Steep the artemisia annua leaves and flowers in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove solids.
5. Serve the hot tea immediately and drink within 30 minutes for best results.

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

The best combination of herbal teas that help with depression is a blend of Lavender, Chamomile, and St. John's Wort.

Lavender promotes relaxation and calms the mind, while Chamomile soothes anxiety and stress. St. John's Wort, although not suitable for everyone, has been shown to have mild antidepressant properties. When consumed together, these teas can provide a natural and holistic approach to managing depression.

It's essential to consult a healthcare professional before using these teas, especially if you're already taking medication.