11 Best Herbal Teas For Stress

Herbal teas for stress are a type of herbal remedy that utilizes plant extracts to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, tension, and emotional distress.

These teas can be effective in treating stress due to their calming properties, which are often attributed to the presence of certain compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenes.

Some examples of herbal teas that can be used to treat stress include chamomile tea, which is known for its soothing effects and ability to promote relaxation; lavender tea, which has been shown to reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality; passionflower tea, which can help to calm the nervous system and reduce restlessness; peppermint tea, which can aid in digestion and reduce feelings of overwhelm; and valerian root tea, which is often used as a natural sedative to promote relaxation and reduce stress.

By incorporating these teas into one's daily routine, individuals can experience a decrease in stress levels and an improvement in overall well-being.

Below there's a list of the 11 best herbal teas for stress.

1. Valeriana officinalis teas

Valeriana officinalis teas have been used for centuries to treat stress and anxiety due to their sedative and relaxing properties.

The herbal preparation helps to treat stress by promoting a calm and peaceful state of mind, reducing feelings of anxiety and restlessness, and improving sleep quality.

The bioactive constituents of Valeriana officinalis teas, including valerenic acid, valeranone, and valepotriates, are responsible for its anxiolytic and sedative effects, which help to alleviate stress and promote relaxation.

Regular consumption of Valeriana officinalis teas has been shown to provide numerous benefits, including reduced stress and anxiety levels, improved sleep quality, and enhanced overall well-being.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of boiling water and 1 tablespoon of dried Valeriana officinalis root.
2. Measure 1 teaspoon of dried Valeriana officinalis root per cup of boiling water. If you prefer a stronger tea, use 2 teaspoons.
3. Steep the Valeriana officinalis root in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a tea strainer or a piece of cheesecloth. Discard the root.
5. Drink the tea as needed to help with stress relief. You can drink it up to 3 times a day.

Valeriana officinalis teas can cause drowsiness and stomach upset in some individuals, particularly when consumed in large quantities or before driving or operating heavy machinery.

To minimize potential side effects, it is recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed, and to avoid consuming Valeriana officinalis teas with other sedatives or medications that can enhance its sedative effects.

2. Lavandula angustifolia teas

Lavandula angustifolia teas have been widely used to treat stress and anxiety due to their calming and soothing properties, which help to reduce feelings of tension and promote relaxation.

The bioactive constituents of Lavandula angustifolia, including linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to have a sedative effect and can help to reduce stress levels by regulating the body's response to stress.

By promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, Lavandula angustifolia teas can help to alleviate symptoms of stress and anxiety, leading to improved sleep quality and overall well-being.

The benefits of using Lavandula angustifolia teas to treat stress include reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, improved mood, and enhanced overall quality of life.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of dried Lavandula angustifolia flowers and 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Measure 1 tablespoon of dried flowers and place them in a tea infuser or a heat-resistant cup.
3. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the dried flowers and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into another cup and discard the flowers. Add honey to taste if desired.
5. Drink the tea when it's still warm, ideally 1-2 times a day, to help manage stress.

Lavandula angustifolia teas can be beneficial in treating stress-related ailments, but its frequent consumption may lead to side effects such as drowsiness, headaches, and stomach upset due to its calming and sedative properties.

Precautions should be taken when using Lavandula angustifolia teas to treat stress, including avoiding its use before driving or operating heavy machinery, and being cautious when combining it with other medications or substances that can cause drowsiness.

3. Passiflora incarnata teas

Passiflora incarnata teas, also known as passionflower tea, have been traditionally used to treat stress and anxiety-related ailments.

The herbal preparation's properties, such as its sedative and anxiolytic effects, help to calm the mind and body, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety.

The bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, alkaloids, and glycosides, work synergistically to exert a calming effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels.

By drinking Passiflora incarnata teas, individuals can experience benefits such as improved sleep quality, reduced anxiety symptoms, and enhanced overall well-being, making it a popular natural remedy for stress relief.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh or dried Passiflora incarnata flowers.
2. Use 1 cup of boiling water to steep 1 tablespoon of the flowers for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the tea into a cup and discard the flowers.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of honey or sugar (optional) to sweeten the tea.
5. Drink the tea 2-3 times a day for stress relief, ideally after meals or before bedtime.

Passiflora incarnata teas can be an effective herbal remedy for stress, but it may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and gastrointestinal upset in some individuals, which can be particularly concerning when driving or operating heavy machinery.

To use Passiflora incarnata teas safely, it is essential to start with a small dose and gradually increase it as needed, and also to be aware of any potential interactions with other medications or substances, such as sedatives or antidepressants.

4. Melissa officinalis teas

Melissa officinalis teas, also known as lemon balm tea, have been used for centuries to treat stress and anxiety-related ailments.

The calming properties of this herbal preparation are attributed to its ability to reduce stress and promote relaxation by slowing down the heart rate and promoting sleep.

The bioactive constituents, including rosmarinic acid, apigenin, and luteolin, in Melissa officinalis teas help to reduce stress and anxiety by exerting a sedative effect on the nervous system.

Regular consumption of Melissa officinalis teas has been shown to provide benefits in reducing stress and anxiety, improving mood, and enhancing overall well-being.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Melissa officinalis leaves or 1 teaspoon of dried leaves.
2. Heat 1 cup of water in a pot until it boils.
3. Remove the water from heat and add the Melissa officinalis leaves.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes, then strain the leaves.
5. Drink 1 cup of the tea 2-3 times a day to help reduce stress.

Melissa officinalis teas can be used to treat stress and anxiety, but possible side effects may include stomach upset, dizziness, and allergic reactions in some individuals.

Precautions to take when using these teas include starting with small doses, avoiding them before surgery or driving, and being cautious when combining with other medications or substances, as they may interact and exacerbate side effects.

5. Avena sativa teas

Avena sativa teas, also known as oat straw tea, have been traditionally used to treat stress and anxiety due to their calming and soothing properties.

The herbal preparation contains flavonoids, phenolic acids, and avenanthramides, which contribute to its stress-relieving effects by promoting relaxation and reducing cortisol levels.

These bioactive constituents help to calm the nervous system, reduce inflammation, and promote a sense of well-being, making Avena sativa teas a popular natural remedy for stress relief.

The benefits of using Avena sativa teas to treat stress include improved sleep quality, reduced anxiety levels, and a sense of calm and relaxation, making it an effective herbal preparation for managing stress and promoting overall well-being.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of boiling water and 1 tablespoon of dried Avena sativa root or 2 teaspoons of Avena sativa powder.
2. Choose a heat-resistant cup or teapot and pour the boiling water over the Avena sativa root or powder.
3. Let the mixture steep for 5-7 minutes. If using powder, you can also let it steep for 3-5 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into another cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the Avena sativa root or powder.
5. Drink the tea immediately, ideally 1-2 cups per day, to help with stress relief.

Avena sativa teas can be a helpful natural remedy for stress relief, but they may cause side effects such as drowsiness, stomach upset, and increased heart rate in some individuals.

To minimize potential issues, it's essential to start with a small dose and gradually increase it, as consuming excessive amounts can lead to interactions with medications or exacerbate underlying health conditions.

6. Zingiber officinale teas

Zingiber officinale teas, also known as ginger tea, have been traditionally used to treat stress and anxiety due to their calming and soothing properties.

The bioactive constituents of ginger tea, such as gingerols and shogaols, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which help to reduce stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation.

Drinking ginger tea can help to calm the mind and body, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety, and promoting a sense of well-being and relaxation.

The benefits of ginger tea in treating stress and anxiety include improved mood, reduced anxiety levels, and enhanced sleep quality, making it a popular natural remedy for stress relief.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 tablespoon of dried Zingiber officinale root and 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Measure 1 cup of water and bring it to a boil in a pot or kettle.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of dried Zingiber officinale root to the boiling water.
4. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to release the active ingredients.
5. Strain the tea and serve hot. You can add honey or lemon to taste.

Zingiber officinale teas can be used as a potential remedy to alleviate stress, but they may cause side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, and diarrhea in some individuals, particularly those with sensitive stomachs or allergies to ginger.

To minimize potential side effects, it's recommended to start with small doses, avoid mixing with other medications or herbs that may interact with ginger, and to drink the tea after meals to reduce discomfort.

7. Camellia sinensis teas

Camellia sinensis teas, derived from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, have been traditionally used to treat stress and anxiety.

The properties of this herbal preparation, such as its calming and soothing effects, help to reduce stress by promoting relaxation and tranquility.

The bioactive constituents of Camellia sinensis teas, including L-theanine, flavonoids, and polyphenols, work together to regulate the body's response to stress, reducing cortisol levels and promoting a sense of calmness.

By consuming Camellia sinensis teas, individuals can experience benefits such as reduced anxiety, improved sleep quality, and enhanced overall well-being, making it a popular natural remedy for stress relief.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of Camellia sinensis leaves (black, green, or white tea) and 1 cup of water.
2. Heat water to 200°F (boiling point) in a kettle or pot.
3. Measure 1 teaspoon of tea leaves for every 8 oz of water and place them in a tea infuser or strainer.
4. Steep the tea for 1-3 minutes, depending on the desired strength and flavor.
5. Strain the tea and serve hot, adding honey or lemon to taste if needed.

Camellia sinensis teas can help alleviate stress due to their high antioxidant content, but possible side effects may include stomach upset, nausea, or dizziness, particularly if consumed in excess.

To avoid these side effects, it is recommended to start with a small dose and gradually increase the amount over time, also avoiding consumption before bedtime due to its stimulating properties.

8. Hypericum perforatum teas

Hypericum perforatum teas, also known as St. John's Wort, have been traditionally used to treat stress and anxiety-related ailments due to their adaptogenic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The bioactive constituents of Hypericum perforatum, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenoids, have been shown to modulate the activity of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which helps to alleviate symptoms of stress and anxiety.

The benefits of consuming Hypericum perforatum teas include reduced stress levels, improved mood, and enhanced sleep quality, making it a popular herbal remedy for those seeking natural stress relief.

By promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, Hypericum perforatum teas provide a safe and natural alternative for managing stress-related ailments.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Hypericum perforatum flowers or 2 teaspoons of dried flowers.
2. Combine the flowers with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup or teapot.
3. Let the mixture steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain the flowers from the liquid.
4. Add honey or sugar to taste, if desired, and stir well.
5. Drink the tea 2-3 times a day to help manage stress.

Hypericum perforatum teas can be used to treat stress, but possible side effects include dizziness, nausea, and allergic reactions, particularly when consumed in large quantities or combined with other medications.

To use Hypericum perforatum teas safely, it's recommended to start with small doses, avoid consuming them before surgery or with sedatives, and be cautious when driving or operating heavy machinery, as they can cause drowsiness and affect cognitive function.

9. Glycyrrhiza glabra teas

Glycyrrhiza glabra teas have been traditionally used to treat stress-related ailments due to their adaptogenic properties, which help to regulate the body's response to stress.

The herbal preparation contains bioactive constituents such as glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which contribute to its stress-relieving effects.

These compounds help to reduce cortisol levels, promote relaxation, and improve mood, ultimately alleviating symptoms of stress and anxiety.

Regular consumption of Glycyrrhiza glabra teas has been shown to provide benefits such as improved sleep quality, reduced muscle tension, and enhanced overall well-being.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 teaspoon of dried Glycyrrhiza glabra root, 1 cup of boiling water, and a cup or mug.
2. Place the dried root in the cup.
3. Pour the boiling water over the root and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into another cup and discard the root.
5. Drink the tea warm or at room temperature to help with stress.

Glycyrrhiza glabra teas can be used to treat stress-related ailments, but it may cause side effects such as increased blood pressure, sodium retention, and potassium deficiency.

When using these teas to alleviate stress, precautions should be taken to avoid excessive consumption, which can lead to symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and muscle weakness.

10. Ginkgo biloba teas

Ginkgo biloba teas have been widely used to treat stress-related ailments due to their adaptogenic properties, which help the body adapt to stress and promote balance.

The flavonoids and terpenoids present in ginkgo biloba teas, such as quercetin and bilobalide, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help to calm the mind and body.

By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, ginkgo biloba teas help to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, promoting a sense of relaxation and well-being.

Regular consumption of ginkgo biloba teas has been shown to improve mood, reduce stress levels, and enhance overall mental health, making it a popular natural remedy for stress relief.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 teaspoon of dried Ginkgo biloba leaves and 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Place the Ginkgo biloba leaves in a tea infuser or a small muslin bag.
3. Pour the boiling water over the Ginkgo biloba leaves and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea and discard the Ginkgo biloba leaves. Add honey or lemon to taste.
5. Drink 1 cup of the Ginkgo biloba tea 1-2 times a day to help manage stress.

Ginkgo biloba teas can help alleviate stress symptoms, but potential side effects may include dizziness, headaches, and stomach upset due to its blood-thinning properties, especially when taken in high doses or combined with other medications.

To use Ginkgo biloba teas safely, take it in moderation, avoid consuming it before surgery or with anticoagulant medications, and be aware of its potential interactions with other herbal supplements or medications.

11. Matricaria chamomilla teas

Matricaria chamomilla teas have been a long-standing natural remedy for treating stress and anxiety-related ailments, due to their soothing and calming properties.

This herbal preparation helps to treat stress by reducing inflammation, promoting relaxation, and regulating the body's response to stress, ultimately leading to improved overall well-being.

The bioactive constituents of Matricaria chamomilla teas, including apigenin, luteolin, and bisabolol, are responsible for their therapeutic effects, acting as a gentle sedative, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant.

The benefits of Matricaria chamomilla teas in treating stress include improved sleep quality, reduced anxiety and depression symptoms, and enhanced mood stability, making them an effective and natural alternative to conventional stress-relief methods.

Recipe:

1. Gather 2 teaspoons of dried Matricaria chamomilla flowers.
2. Heat 1 cup of water in a saucepan until boiling.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and add the dried flowers.
4. Steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain the tea into a cup.
5. Drink the tea and enjoy the calming benefits for stress relief.

Matricaria chamomilla teas can be beneficial in treating stress, but possible side effects may include allergic reactions, such as skin rashes or difficulty breathing, especially in individuals with known allergies to plants in the daisy family.

When using Matricaria chamomilla teas to treat stress, it's essential to take precautions, including using the tea in moderation, avoiding it before driving or operating heavy machinery due to potential drowsiness, and being cautious when consuming it with other medications.