10 Best Herbal Teas For Stress

Herbal teas for stress are a natural and calming solution to help alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation.

These teas are infused with herbs that have been used for centuries to soothe the mind and body. Examples include chamomile, lavender, and peppermint teas, which have been shown to reduce stress levels and improve sleep quality.

By incorporating these teas into daily routines, individuals can experience a sense of calm and clarity, leading to improved mental well-being and a better quality of life.

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

1. Passiflora incarnata

Passiflora incarnata, also known as maypop, teas helps with stress because it contains a unique combination of flavonoids and alkaloids that have a calming effect on the nervous system.

The tea has been traditionally used to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, making it an effective natural remedy for stress relief.

By interacting with the brain's GABA receptors, Passiflora incarnata tea helps to regulate the body's response to stress, promoting a sense of calm and tranquility.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Harpagide: This alkaloid has anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties, which help to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety by interacting with the brain's GABA receptors.
• Methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate: This phenolic compound has a sedative effect, which can help to calm the nervous system and reduce stress.
• Isovitexin: This flavonoid has a relaxing effect on the nervous system, which can help to reduce stress and promote a sense of calmness.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: The leaves of Passiflora incarnata are commonly used in teas due to their high content of flavonoids and other compounds that help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
• Flowers: The flowers of Passiflora incarnata are also frequently used in teas, as they contain a higher concentration of passifloric acid, which has a sedative effect and helps alleviate stress.
• Roots: The roots of Passiflora incarnata are another popular choice for teas, containing a mix of alkaloids and flavonoids that help regulate mood and reduce anxiety.

Recipe

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

1. Gather 1-2 ounces of dried passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves from a trusted herbalist or store.
2. Measure out 1 teaspoon of the dried herb for every 8 ounces of boiling water.
3. Steep the dried passiflora incarnata in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release its active compounds.
4. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids.
5. Serve the tea immediately and consume within 30 minutes to 1 hour for optimal benefits.

2. Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, teas helps with stress because of its unique ability to interact with the brain's neurotransmitters and promote relaxation.

The herbal tea contains a compound called valerenic acid, which calms the mind and body by reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calmness.

As a natural sedative, valerian teas have been used for centuries to alleviate stress, insomnia, and restlessness, making it a popular choice for those seeking a natural way to unwind and recharge.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Valerenic acid: This sesquiterpene helps with stress by acting as a GABA receptor agonist, which promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety.
• Valeranone: This valerenic acid derivative has sedative properties, helping to reduce stress and anxiety by acting as a central nervous system depressant.
• Isovaleric acid amide: This amide has a sedative effect, helping to reduce stress by acting as a GABA receptor agonist and promoting relaxation.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: Used due to their high concentration of valerenic acid and valeranone, which are known for their sedative and calming properties.
• Flowers: Utilized for their gentle, soothing effects and to provide a more subtle flavor profile compared to the roots.
• Stems: Employed for their lesser-known but still significant content of valerenic acid, offering a milder alternative to root tea.

Recipe

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

1. Gather 1/4 to 1/2 cup of dried valeriana officinalis root or 2 tablespoons of fresh root.
2. Combine the dried root with 1 quart of boiling water in a saucepan.
3. Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes or until the liquid reaches a comfortable temperature.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
5. Drink the tea immediately while it is still warm or let it cool to room temperature.

3. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St. John's Wort, teas helps with stress because it contains bioactive compounds that promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.

The flavonoids and phenolic acids in St. John's Wort tea interact with neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine, to enhance mood and reduce stress levels. The tea's calming effects also make it easier to fall asleep and improve overall sleep quality.

As a result, many people find that drinking St. John's Wort tea helps them cope with stress and anxiety.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Hyperforin: This phenolic compound has been shown to inhibit the reuptake of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which helps to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and stress by promoting a sense of calm.
• Hypericin: This naphthodianthrone compound has antioxidant properties that help reduce oxidative stress in the body, which can contribute to feelings of anxiety and stress.
• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help mitigate the negative effects of stress on the body and promote relaxation.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: High in flavonoids and other antioxidants that help alleviate stress and anxiety.
• Flowers: Rich in hyperforin, a key compound that has a calming effect on the mind and body.
• Stems: Contain flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 50-100 grams of fresh or dried hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves from a trusted source.
2. Dry the harvested material in a single layer at 50-60°c for 2-4 hours to preserve potency.
3. Steep 2-5 grams of dried hypericum perforatum in 250ml of boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
4. Strain the tea through a fine mesh or cheesecloth into a cup to remove solids.
5. Drink the tea immediately while hot to maximize bioavailability and potential therapeutic benefits.

4. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, teas helps with stress because of its calming and relaxing properties.

The tea is rich in linalool and linalyl acetate, compounds that have been shown to have a positive effect on anxiety and stress levels. Drinking Lavandula angustifolia tea can help to slow down heart rate, lower blood pressure, and promote a sense of calmness, making it an ideal remedy for individuals experiencing stress and anxiety.

This natural remedy can promote a good night's sleep and overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Linalool: This terpene helps with stress by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety through its sedative and calming effects.
• Linalyl acetate: This terpene contributes to the calming and soothing properties of Lavandula angustifolia, helping to alleviate stress and promote a sense of well-being.
• Apigenin: This phenolic compound has anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and sedative effects, helping to reduce stress and promote relaxation by binding to GABA receptors in the brain.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: Used due to their calming properties and ability to promote relaxation.
• Flowers: Utilized for their soothing effects and ability to reduce anxiety.
• Buds: Employed in teas for their calming and stress-relieving properties, which help to promote a peaceful state of mind.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers in the early morning when the dew is still present.
2. Dry the harvested flowers for 1-2 hours in a low-temperature oven at 100f to prevent oil degradation.
3. Steep 1 teaspoon of dried flowers in a cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the essential oils.
4. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the flowers and any remaining solids.
5. Store the cooled tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

5. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with stress because of its adaptogenic properties, which enable the body to adapt to and withstand stress.

The tea contains compounds like glycyrrhizin and flavonoids that have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.

It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of stress such as headaches and muscle tension, ultimately leading to a sense of calm and well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin helps with stress by inhibiting the enzyme 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which converts cortisol into its active form, potentially reducing cortisol levels and related stress symptoms.
• Licopyrones: This flavonoid may help with stress by acting as a GABA receptor agonist, which can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
• Flavonoids: The isoflavones present in Glycyrrhiza glabra tea may help with stress by modulating the body's stress response system, potentially reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: The roots are the primary part used for teas due to their high glycyrrhizin content, which has anti-stress properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used to make teas, containing smaller amounts of glycyrrhizin and other compounds that help alleviate stress.
• Stems: The stems of Glycyrrhiza glabra are occasionally used to make teas, although they are less commonly used than the roots or leaves.

Recipe

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

1. Select 2-3 tablespoons of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots for a standard serving size.
2. Combine the selected roots with 1 quart of boiling water in a large pot.
3. Allow the mixture to steep for 5-10 minutes or until the desired flavor is reached.
4. Strain the tea using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container.
5. Chill the tea in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

6. Matricaria chamomilla

Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, teas helps with stress because it contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to GABA receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation.

This herbal tea has a calming effect, reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calmness. Chamomile tea's soothing properties can also help with insomnia, promoting a restful sleep.

As a natural sedative, it can calm the mind and body, making it an effective remedy for stress and promoting overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Apigenin: This flavonoid helps reduce anxiety and stress by interacting with GABA receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and calming effects.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid has been shown to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties by inhibiting the activity of enzymes involved in stress response, such as COX-2.
• Α-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and sedative properties, helping to reduce stress and promote relaxation by inhibiting the release of stress hormones like cortisol.

Plant's Parts

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

• Flowers: They are rich in apigenin, an antioxidant that promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety.
• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which contribute to their calming effects and ability to soothe nerves.
• Seeds: They are a good source of apigenin and other bioactive compounds that help alleviate stress and promote sleep.

Recipe

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

1. Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers and 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Steep the dried flowers in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to infuse the tea.
3. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the flowers.
4. Drink the tea immediately or let it cool to room temperature.
5. Store any leftover tea in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

7. Tilia platyphyllos

Tilia platyphyllos, also known as broad-leaved lime, teas helps with stress because of its calming properties.

The tea contains flavonoids and terpenoids, which work together to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. The soothing effects of Tilia platyphyllos tea can help ease nervous tension, leading to a sense of calm and tranquility.

Additionally, its sedative properties can help regulate sleep patterns, allowing individuals to feel more balanced and focused, making it an effective herbal remedy for stress relief.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help alleviate stress by exerting a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
• Tiliroside: As a phenolic glycoside, tiliroside has been shown to possess anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties, which help in reducing stress and promoting feelings of calmness.
• Terpenoids: These compounds have been found to have a sedative effect, which helps in reducing stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: Tilia platyphyllos leaves are used to make teas for stress relief due to their calming and sedative properties.
• Buds: The buds of Tilia platyphyllos are used to make teas for stress relief as they contain flavonoids and other compounds that promote relaxation.
• Flowers: Tilia platyphyllos flowers are used to make teas for stress relief due to their soothing and calming effects, often used to promote sleep and reduce anxiety.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of tilia platyphyllos leaves and flowers in the afternoon when they are at their highest oil content.
2. Dry the harvested tilia platyphyllos leaves and flowers in a warm place or with a food dehydrator for 2-3 hours.
3. Crush 5-7 grams of dried tilia platyphyllos leaves and flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
4. Steep the crushed tilia platyphyllos powder in 250 milliliters of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release its active compounds.
5. Strain the tea and discard the solids before serving it in a cup to enjoy its calming effects.

8. Melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, teas helps with stress because of its unique blend of active compounds, including rosmarinic acid and flavonoids.

These natural chemicals have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. The tea's soothing properties also help to regulate sleep patterns and improve mood.

As a result, Melissa officinalis teas have been traditionally used to alleviate stress, anxiety, and insomnia, making it a popular herbal remedy for promoting overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps with stress by acting as an antioxidant, reducing inflammation, and promoting relaxation by regulating the body's response to stress.
• Melissic acid: A phenolic acid that contributes to the anti-stress effects of Melissa officinalis by modulating the body's stress response and improving mood regulation.
• Linalool: A terpene with a calming effect that helps with stress by promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and improving sleep quality, ultimately leading to a decrease in stress levels.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: They are the most used part due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly linalool and linalyl acetate, which contribute to their calming and relaxing properties.
• Flowers: They are used to make teas as they contain a higher concentration of linalool and other essential oils compared to leaves, enhancing their stress-relieving effects.
• Stems: They are sometimes used as an alternative to leaves, offering similar stress-relieving properties due to the presence of essential oils.

Recipe

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

1. Gather 1-2 tablespoons of dried melissa officinalis leaves from a reputable supplier or harvest them fresh.
2. Steep 1 teaspoon of dried melissa officinalis leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the herb particles.
4. Add honey or sugar to taste to sweeten the tea if desired by some.
5. Serve the tea immediately and enjoy its calming and soothing properties within 30 minutes.

9. Avena sativa

Avena sativa, also known as oats, teas helps with stress because it contains a unique combination of flavonoids and alkaloids that interact with the body's neurotransmitters.

It is believed to promote relaxation and calmness by reducing cortisol levels and regulating the nervous system. The tea is thought to have a sedative effect, helping to quiet the mind and promote a sense of well-being.

As a result, Avena sativa teas have been traditionally used to soothe anxiety and promote a restful night's sleep.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Avena sativa teas that help with stress.

• Avenacoside: Avenacoside, a saponin glycoside, helps with stress by modulating the body's stress response and promoting relaxation.
• Beta-sitosterol: Beta-Sitosterol, a phytosterol, helps with stress by reducing inflammation and promoting a sense of calmness.
• Hordenine: Hordenine, an alkaloid, helps with stress by promoting a sense of relaxation and reducing anxiety due to its ability to inhibit the reuptake of serotonin and dopamine.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of oats used to make teas for stress.

• Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and other compounds that help calm the nervous system and reduce stress.
• Seeds: Oat seeds contain saponins, which may help alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation.
• Flowers: Oat flowers have a soothing effect, and their extracts are often used to calm the mind and body, reducing stress and anxiety.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic oats for stress.

1. Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried avena sativa root per 8 ounces of boiling water for a standard serving size.
2. Steep the avena sativa root in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to allow for maximum extraction.
3. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine mesh sieve to remove the solids.
4. Add honey or other natural sweeteners to taste as desired for added flavor and sweetness.
5. Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable temperature before serving and consuming immediately.

10. Centella asiatica

Centella asiatica, also known as asiatic pennywort, teas helps with stress because of its adaptogenic properties, allowing the body to cope with stress and promote relaxation.

The herb's active compounds, such as brahmosides and triterpenoids, have been shown to enhance the production of neurotransmitters that regulate mood, including serotonin and dopamine. This leads to a calming effect, reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of balance and well-being.

Regular consumption of Centella asiatica tea may also improve sleep quality, further contributing to its stress-relieving benefits.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Centella asiatica teas that help with stress.

• Asiatic acid: This triterpenoid saponin has been shown to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects by modulating the GABA-A receptor, which helps regulate the body's stress response.
• Madecassoside: This triterpenoid saponin has been found to have anti-anxiety and anti-depressive effects, possibly by inhibiting the activity of enzymes involved in the breakdown of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
• Baicalein: This flavonoid has been demonstrated to have a calming effect on the nervous system, possibly by inhibiting the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of asiatic pennywort used to make teas for stress.

• Leaves: The leaves contain high levels of bioactive compounds, including asiatic acid and madecassoside, which contribute to their stress-relieving and anti-anxiety effects.
• Roots: The roots of Centella asiatica are rich in antioxidants and have been traditionally used to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
• Buds: The buds of the plant are said to have a calming effect and are often used in teas to promote stress relief and improve sleep quality.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic asiatic pennywort for stress.

1. Harvest 30-60 grams of dried centella asiatica leaves and stems from a reputable source.
2. Rinse the centella asiatica with cold water to remove any impurities and debris.
3. Steep 1 teaspoon of dried centella asiatica in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the centella asiatica tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
5. Serve the centella asiatica tea hot or iced within 1-2 hours of preparation.

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

The best combination of herbal teas that help with stress is a blend of chamomile, lavender, and lemon balm.

Chamomile calms the mind and body, while lavender soothes the nervous system. Lemon balm promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety. Together, these teas create a powerful synergy that can ease stress and promote a restful sleep.

By sipping on this calming blend, you can unwind and find balance in your life, making it an ideal remedy for those looking to manage stress and promote overall well-being.