9 Best Herbal Teas For Depression

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

These teas can treat depression due to their ability to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and regulate mood-boosting neurotransmitters.

Examples of herbal teas that can help treat depression include St. John's Wort, which is known for its ability to increase serotonin levels, Chamomile, which can reduce stress and promote relaxation, Lavender, which has a calming effect on the mind and body, and Ashwagandha, which can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality.

Additionally, other herbal teas such as Peppermint, Lemon Balm, and Passionflower may also help alleviate symptoms of depression by reducing stress and promoting feelings of calmness and relaxation.

Below there's a list of the 9 best herbal teas for depression.

1. Valeriana officinalis teas

Valeriana officinalis teas have been traditionally used to treat depression due to their sedative and anxiolytic properties, which help to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and promote relaxation.

The bioactive constituents, including valerenic acid and valepotriates, contribute to the herbal preparation's ability to reduce stress and promote a sense of calmness, ultimately helping to manage depression.

The sedative properties of Valeriana officinalis teas also help to regulate sleep patterns, which is often disrupted in individuals suffering from depression.

The benefits of using Valeriana officinalis teas to treat depression include reduced symptoms of anxiety, improved sleep quality, and enhanced mood, making it a popular natural remedy for managing this condition.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of boiling water and 1 tablespoon of dried Valeriana officinalis roots.
2. Measure 1 teaspoon of dried Valeriana officinalis roots for each cup of boiling water.
3. Steep the Valeriana officinalis roots in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
5. Drink 1-2 cups of Valeriana officinalis tea 2-3 times a day for depression relief.

Usage:

1. Consult a healthcare professional before using Valeriana officinalis tea for depression.
2. Start with 1 teaspoon of dried root powder per cup of boiling water, 2-3 times daily.
3. Begin with small doses (250-500 mg) and gradually increase to 1-2 grams as needed.
4. Steep the tea for 5-7 minutes and drink within 30 minutes for optimal benefits.
5. Monitor mood and adjust the dosage and frequency under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Valeriana officinalis teas can be beneficial in treating depression, but possible side effects may include drowsiness, headaches, and gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and stomach cramps.

When using these teas to treat depression, it is essential to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed, and to be cautious of potential interactions with other medications, particularly those used to treat anxiety or insomnia.

2. Hypericum perforatum teas

Hypericum perforatum teas, also known as St. John's Wort, have been used for centuries to treat depression due to its adaptogenic and antidepressant properties.

The bioactive constituents, including hyperforin and hypericin, help to inhibit the reuptake of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, thereby alleviating symptoms of depression.

This herbal preparation's ability to regulate mood and reduce anxiety levels makes it an effective natural remedy for treating mild to moderate depression.

Regular consumption of Hypericum perforatum teas has been associated with improved mood, reduced stress, and enhanced overall well-being, making it a popular choice for those seeking a natural alternative to conventional antidepressants.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 tablespoon of dried Hypericum perforatum flowers and 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Steep the Hypericum perforatum flowers in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup.
4. Add honey or sugar to taste, if desired, to make the tea sweeter.
5. Drink 1-2 cups of the Hypericum perforatum tea per day for depression relief, ideally in the morning and evening.

Usage:

1. Consult a doctor before using Hypericum perforatum tea for depression
2. Start with 1 teaspoon of dried herb in 1 cup of boiling water
3. Drink 3 cups of tea per day, 2 times a day, for 2-4 weeks
4. Adjust dosage to 1 1/2 or 2 teaspoons per cup if needed
5. Monitor mood and adjust usage accordingly with doctor's guidance

Hypericum perforatum teas can be used to treat depression, but it may cause side effects such as stomach upset, dizziness, and interactions with other medications, particularly blood thinners and certain antidepressants.

When using Hypericum perforatum teas to treat depression, it is recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase it, and to avoid mixing it with other sedatives or stimulants to minimize the risk of adverse reactions.

3. Passiflora incarnata teas

Passiflora incarnata teas, also known as passionflower tea, have been traditionally used to treat depression and anxiety.

The herbal preparation contains flavonoids, alkaloids, and glycosides, such as harmine and chrysin, which contribute to its therapeutic properties.

These bioactive constituents help to reduce anxiety and insomnia by interacting with the brain's GABA receptors, promoting relaxation and calmness, and ultimately alleviating symptoms of depression.

Regular consumption of Passiflora incarnata tea has been shown to provide relief from depression by reducing stress and anxiety levels, promoting better sleep, and enhancing overall mood.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh or dried Passiflora incarnata flowers. Wash them with clean water.
2. Combine the flowers with 2 cups of boiling water in a large cup or teapot.
3. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes. Strain the liquid with a fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of honey (optional) to the tea and stir well.
5. Drink the tea 2-3 times a day, ideally before meals. Consult a doctor before using as a treatment for depression.

Usage:

1. Drink 1/2 cup of Passiflora incarnata tea 2-3 times a day.
2. Start with a low dosage of 1 teaspoon of dried herb per cup.
3. Gradually increase dosage to 1-2 tablespoons per cup as needed.
4. Use Passiflora incarnata tea for at least 6 weeks to see results.
5. Combine with other treatments under a healthcare professional's guidance.

Passiflora incarnata teas can be used as a natural remedy to treat depression, but it may cause side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and stomach upset due to its sedative properties.

When using Passiflora incarnata teas to treat depression, it is essential to take precautions, such as starting with small doses, avoiding use with other sedatives or medications, and being aware of the potential for interactions with other herbal remedies.

4. Lavandula angustifolia teas

Lavandula angustifolia teas have been widely studied for their potential to alleviate symptoms of depression due to their anxiolytic and sedative properties, which help to reduce stress and promote relaxation.

The bioactive constituents of Lavandula angustifolia, including linalool and linalyl acetate, are known to interact with the brain's neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and GABA, to regulate mood and emotions.

Drinking Lavandula angustifolia teas has been shown to improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms, and enhance overall well-being, making it a natural remedy for treating depression.

The benefits of Lavandula angustifolia teas in treating depression include reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, improved sleep quality, and enhanced mood stability, making it a popular natural alternative to conventional medications.

Recipe:

1. Gather 2 tablespoons of dried Lavandula angustifolia flowers.
2. Boil 1 cup of water in a kettle or on the stove.
3. Pour the boiling water over the dried flowers in a cup.
4. Let the mixture steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain it into another cup.
5. Drink the tea 1-2 times a day to help with depression symptoms.

Usage:

1. Consult a doctor or a healthcare professional before using Lavandula angustifolia tea
2. Drink 1 cup of Lavandula angustifolia tea 2-3 times a day as needed
3. Start with a small dosage of 1 tablespoon of dried flowers per cup of boiling water
4. Gradually increase the dosage to 2-3 tablespoons per cup of boiling water if needed
5. Use Lavandula angustifolia tea for 4-6 weeks and re-evaluate its effectiveness with a healthcare professional

Lavandula angustifolia teas can be a potential remedy for alleviating symptoms of depression due to its calming and mood-enhancing properties, but it may also cause drowsiness, headaches, and stomach upset in some individuals.

To use Lavandula angustifolia teas safely, it is recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed, and to avoid consuming it before driving or operating heavy machinery.

5. Melissa officinalis teas

Melissa officinalis teas, also known as lemon balm teas, have been traditionally used to treat depression and anxiety due to their calming and mood-enhancing properties.

The herbal preparation helps to reduce stress and promote relaxation by acting on the brain's neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and GABA, which are involved in regulating mood and emotional response.

The bioactive constituents of Melissa officinalis, including rosmarinic acid, apigenin, and luteolin, have been identified as key players in its antidepressant effects, as they have been shown to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to mitigate the symptoms of depression.

The benefits of using Melissa officinalis teas to treat depression include improved mood, reduced anxiety and stress levels, and enhanced sleep quality, making it a promising natural remedy for individuals seeking alternative approaches to managing this complex condition.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of boiling water, 1 tablespoon of dried Melissa officinalis leaves, and a tea infuser or a heat-resistant cup.
2. Pour the boiling water over the dried Melissa officinalis leaves in the tea infuser or the heat-resistant cup.
3. Let the mixture steep for 5-7 minutes, then remove the tea infuser or strain the leaves from the cup.
4. Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired. Stir well to combine.
5. Drink the tea 1-2 times a day, preferably before meals, to help manage depression symptoms.

Usage:

1. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance on using Melissa officinalis tea for depression.
2. Start with 1 teaspoon of dried Melissa officinalis flowers in a cup of boiling water.
3. Steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain and drink 1-2 cups daily.
4. Take Melissa officinalis tea 2-3 times a day, with meals, as recommended by your healthcare professional.
5. Monitor your symptoms and adjust the dosage or frequency of usage as needed, under healthcare professional guidance.

Melissa officinalis teas can be used as a natural remedy to treat depression, but possible side effects may include dizziness, headaches, and stomach upset due to its interactions with certain medications and its sedative properties.

To use Melissa officinalis teas safely, it is recommended to start with small doses and gradually increase as needed, avoid consuming it before driving or operating heavy machinery, and be cautious of its potential interactions with other herbal supplements or medications.

6. Ginkgo biloba teas

Ginkgo biloba teas have been traditionally used to treat depression, with their unique properties helping to alleviate symptoms of this ailment.

The flavonoids and terpenoids present in Ginkgo biloba teas have been found to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, contributing to the development of depression.

These bioactive constituents also enhance blood flow to the brain, promoting the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a crucial role in regulating mood.

The benefits of Ginkgo biloba teas in treating depression include improved mood, reduced anxiety and stress levels, and enhanced cognitive function, making them a potential natural remedy for individuals suffering from this condition.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh or dried Ginkgo biloba leaves or 2 tablespoons of Ginkgo biloba extract.
2. Boil 1 cup of water in a pot.
3. Add the Ginkgo biloba leaves or extract to the boiling water.
4. Reduce heat and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea and drink it 2-3 times a day, ideally on an empty stomach.

Usage:

1. Consult a doctor before using Ginkgo biloba tea for depression.
2. Start with 1 teaspoon of dried Ginkgo biloba leaves per cup of boiling water.
3. Steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain the tea.
4. Drink 1-2 cups of Ginkgo biloba tea 2-3 times a day.
5. Continue for 6-8 weeks, adjusting dosage as advised by your doctor.

Ginkgo biloba teas can be beneficial in treating depression, but possible side effects include stomach upset, diarrhea, and allergic reactions such as skin rashes or itching.

To minimize these risks, individuals should use Ginkgo biloba teas in moderation, monitor their body's response, and avoid consuming it with other medications or substances that may interact with it.

7. Avena sativa teas

Avena sativa teas, also known as oat straw tea, have been traditionally used to treat depression due to their adaptogenic properties that help the body adapt to stress and promote relaxation.

The herbal preparation helps to treat depression by reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calm, which can be achieved through its ability to interact with the body's neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine.

The bioactive constituents of Avena sativa teas, including avenacosides, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that contribute to their antidepressant effects.

The benefits of using Avena sativa teas to treat depression include reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, improved sleep quality, and enhanced overall well-being.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 tablespoon of dried Avena sativa root and 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Place the dried Avena sativa root in a tea infuser or a heat-resistant cup.
3. Pour the boiling water over the Avena sativa root and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into another cup and discard the Avena sativa root.
5. Drink the tea 1-2 times a day, ideally in the morning and before bedtime.

Usage:

1. Start with 1-2 teaspoons of Avena sativa powder per cup of boiling water
2. Drink 1-2 cups of Avena sativa tea 2-3 times a day
3. Take Avena sativa tea for 2-6 weeks to notice significant improvement
4. Combine Avena sativa tea with other mood-boosting activities like exercise and meditation
5. Monitor your mood and adjust the dosage or frequency as needed

Avena sativa teas can be used to treat depression due to its anxiolytic and sedative properties, but it may cause side effects such as dizziness, headaches, and stomach upset in some individuals.

To minimize potential side effects, individuals should start with a low dose and gradually increase it, avoid consuming Avena sativa teas before driving or operating heavy machinery, and monitor their body's response to the herbal preparation.

8. Zingiber officinale teas

Zingiber officinale teas, also known as ginger tea, have been traditionally used to treat depression due to their antidepressant properties.

The active compounds in ginger tea, such as 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, which are often linked to depression.

By reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy gut-brain axis, ginger tea can help to alleviate symptoms of depression, including anxiety and mood swings.

The benefits of using Zingiber officinale teas to treat depression include reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, improved mood, and enhanced overall well-being.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 teaspoon of dried Zingiber officinale root and 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Steep the Zingiber officinale root in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture into a cup using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the tea, if desired, and mix well.
5. Drink the tea 2-3 times a day to help alleviate symptoms of depression.

Usage:

1. Consult a doctor before using Zingiber officinale tea for depression
2. Drink 1-2 cups of Zingiber officinale tea 2-3 times a day
3. Start with 1 teaspoon of dried ginger per cup of boiling water
4. Gradually increase dosage to 2-3 teaspoons if needed, after 3 days
5. Combine with other therapies and lifestyle changes for best results

Zingiber officinale teas can be used as a natural remedy for depression, but its usage may lead to side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, and dizziness due to its potential interaction with blood thinning medications and its high ginger content.

To use Zingiber officinale teas safely, take it in moderation, avoid consuming it before surgeries or with other medications, and be cautious when driving or operating heavy machinery as it may cause drowsiness or fatigue.

9. Citrus reticulata teas

Citrus reticulata teas, also known as orange peel tea, have been studied for their potential in treating depression due to their unique properties.

The flavonoids, limonoids, and volatile oils present in Citrus reticulata teas are believed to contribute to their antidepressant effects, which may help alleviate symptoms of depression.

These bioactive constituents are thought to exert their effects by modulating the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are often imbalanced in individuals with depression.

Drinking Citrus reticulata tea may have benefits for individuals with depression, including improved mood, reduced anxiety, and enhanced overall well-being.

Recipe:

1. Gather 2 cups of fresh or dried Citrus reticulata peels (orange peels).
2. Combine peels with 1 cup of water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
3. Let the mixture steep for 10-15 minutes. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve.
4. Combine the strained liquid with 1 cup of hot water and 1 tablespoon of honey (optional).
5. Drink 1 cup of the tea 2-3 times a day to help manage depression symptoms.

Usage:

1. Consult a doctor to confirm Citrus reticulata tea is suitable for depression.
2. Start with 1 teaspoon of dried Citrus reticulata per cup of boiling water.
3. Steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain and discard solids.
4. Drink 1-2 cups of Citrus reticulata tea 2-3 times a day.
5. Monitor mood and adjust dosage or frequency as advised by a doctor.

Citrus reticulata teas can be used as a natural remedy to treat depression, but it may also cause side effects such as dizziness, headaches, and stomach upset in some individuals due to its high concentration of flavonoids and limonoids.

When using Citrus reticulata teas to treat depression, precautions should be taken to avoid interactions with other medications and to start with small doses to gradually adjust to its effects, as excessive consumption can lead to allergic reactions, insomnia, and digestive issues.