6 Best Teas for Relaxing: Science-Backed Picks & Tips!

Did you know that the calming effect of tea has its roots in ancient history, used by monks to enhance their meditation practices?

In this article, we will explore a list of the best teas for relaxing, factors affecting relaxation, and the pros and cons of incorporating relaxing teas into your routine. We’ll also discuss who should consider these teas and offer some practical recipes and blends to help you unwind.

So, prepare your cup of tea and get ready for some readin’ & sippin’ time about the best teas for relaxing!

List of the Best Teas for Relaxing

Before we dive into specifics, let’s acknowledge that finding the right tea for relaxation can be a highly personal experience. Below, we share options that are supported by scientific studies to help you in your quest for relaxation.

1. Kombucha Tea

Kombucha is a fermented green tea that is often carbonated. It has long been used for its purported health benefits, including gut health and immunity. Kombucha contains L-theanine, an amino acid that has been proven to have relaxation properties (Susilowati, 2016).

2. Herbal Teas

Herbal teas can be made from various plants and herbs. Used for thousands of years for medicinal and relaxation purposes. These teas contain phenolic compounds that have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and other properties that manage chronic lifestyle diseases (Ramphinwa et al., 2023).

3. Green Tea

A classic tea made from Camellia sinensis leaves, green tea leaves are used for their energizing and mood-enhancing properties. Containing compounds like catechins and theanine, green tea leaves have been shown to offer relaxation and stress-reduction benefits (Mehmood et al., 2016).

To make it, infuse a teaspoonful of green tea leaves in a cup of water that’s been heated to 175°F or 80°C, wait for 1-3 minutes, then pour through a strainer and delight in your tea. For a deeper understanding of green tea, check out our article on its health benefits!

4. Rosehip Tea

Dried rosehips are used to make a herbal infusion often employed in traditional medicine for its high vitamin C content and calming effects. Known for their relaxing properties, dried rosehips have been studied for their medicinal potential, including in recent research (Villa et al., 2022).

To prepare, add a tablespoon of dried rosehips to a cup, cover with boiling water, let steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain and enjoy.

5. Mate Tea

Mate tea is made from the leaves of the Yerba mate plant and is commonly consumed in South America. Traditionally used for boosting energy and improving mental focus. Mate tea contains hydrosoluble alkaloids that result in central nervous system stimulation and bronchial smooth muscle relaxation (Barreiro et al., 2011).

To prepare, fill a mate gourd half full with yerba mate tea leaves, tilt the gourd until the tea covers the side and almost reaches the top, then pour hot (but not boiling) water into the bottom half, sip from a bombilla, and enjoy!

6. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea is commonly used to calm nerves, relieve stomach issues, and aid in sleep. Chamomile is often recommended for its calming effects and is considered one of the best herbal options for relaxation.

This tea contains compounds that may help to reduce inflammation, anxiety, and stress, making them a good choice for afternoon relaxation and one of the best options for promoting sleep (Zak, V., et al., 2018).

To make it, add a tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers to a cup, cover with boiling water, let it infuse for 5-7 minutes, then strain and sip. If you’re interested in finding out more about the other health benefits of chamomile tea, be sure to check out our detailed article on chamomile tea benefits!

We’ve covered a range of options for those seeking the best teas for relaxing. Whether you’re looking for herbal teas for relaxing, relaxing teas for sleep, good teas for afternoon relaxing, or even teas for relaxing and sleep, there’s a brew for you.

What is Relaxation and How is it Influenced?

Relaxation is a state of reduced tension, stress, and anxiety. It’s a physiological and psychological state where one experiences tranquility and freedom from worry.

Factors Affecting Relaxation

• Stress
• Lifestyle
• Sleep quality
• Diet

Many turn to natural remedies like relaxing teas for sleep and anxiety because they offer a non-pharmacological, accessible option for promoting relaxation.

Who Should Drink Tea for Relaxation

If you’re stressed, anxious, or looking for natural ways to improve your sleep, sipping on a cup of relaxing tea can be a simple, yet effective solution.

Recipes and Blends

Let’s craft a tea blend recipe focused on relaxation, incorporating some of the best teas for relaxing.

Relaxation-Boosting Tea Blend Recipe:

• 1 tsp of green tea leaves
• 1 tsp of dried chamomile flowers
• 1 lavender tea bag
• 2 cups of water

Instructions:

1. Bring the water to a boil and add all the herbs, tea leaves, and tea bag.
2. Let the blend steep for about 5-7 minutes for green tea and 10-15 minutes for the herbs.
3. Strain the tea into a cup, disposing of the used leaves, herbs, and bag.

Sip slowly and enjoy your cup of one of the best teas for relaxing! If you’re looking for a convenient option, consider trying the Mission Chill Tea from Art of Tea, which includes a well-crafted mix of relaxing teas for sleep and anxiety.

Incorporating The Best Teas for Relaxing Into Your Daily Routine

Consider setting a tea time in the afternoon to sip on good teas for afternoon relaxing. Other alternatives include yoga, meditation, and taking short breaks to de-stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which tea is best for relaxation?

Green tea is often touted as one of the best teas for relaxing due to its L-theanine content, an amino acid that promotes relaxation without drowsiness. Herbal teas like chamomile and lavender also score high when it comes to inducing a calm state, making them excellent choices for relaxation. Your preference for the aroma and flavor of these teas may influence your choice.

What tea is good for anxiety and sleep?

Herbal teas are especially effective when it comes to easing anxiety and promoting sleep. Teas like chamomile have properties that not only reduce anxiety but also prepare your body for a restful night. Valerian root tea is another herbal tea that is known to improve sleep quality, making them effective relaxing teas for sleep and anxiety.

What is the strongest tea for anxiety?

Kombucha tea, made from fermented green tea extract, and mate tea are potent choices for alleviating anxiety. Kombucha contains L-theanine, which is known for its relaxation properties. Mate tea has hydrosoluble alkaloids that promote relaxation of the central nervous system. However, individual responses can vary, so you may want to try both to see which works better for you.

What tea mix is best when stressed?

When stressed, a blend of green tea and herbal teas like chamomile or lavender can be effective. Green tea contains catechins and theanine, which are known for their stress-reducing properties. Combining this with the soothing effects of herbal teas can give you a well-rounded remedy for stress relief.

What drink calms anxiety?

Herbal teas are an excellent choice for calming anxiety. Chamomile, in particular, has been studied for its ability to calm the mind and reduce stress hormones. Other herbal teas like lavender and valerian root are also known to reduce symptoms of anxiety effectively.

When to See a Doctor

If you’re experiencing chronic stress, anxiety, or sleeplessness, it might be time to consult a professional.

• Persistent insomnia
• Severe anxiety
• Chronic stress symptoms

Conclusion

We’ve discussed various types of teas like kombucha, herbal, and green tea that are excellent for relaxation, anxiety, and sleep. These are the best teas for relaxing, and incorporating them into your daily routine can greatly benefit your mental wellness. So why not give these teas a try for your relaxation needs and share your experiences?

Reference

• Barreiro, E., Kümmerle, A., & Fraga, C. (2011). The methylation effect in medicinal chemistry. Chemical Reviews, 111(9), 5215-5246. Link Here
• Mehmood, M., Ahmad, T., & Khan, M. (2016). Perception and attitude of university students toward green tea. Biomedical Research and Therapy, 3(7). Link Here
• Ramphinwa, M., Mchau, G., Mashau, M., Madala, N., Chimonyo, V., Modi, T., … & Mudau, F. (2023). Eco-physiological response of secondary metabolites of teas: review of quality attributes of herbal tea. Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 7. Link Here
• Susilowati, A. (2016). Characteristic of kombucha tea concentrate purified through stirred microfiltration cell (smfc) from local green tea (camellia sinensis (l.) o. kuntze) as functional drink for relaxation. Jurnal Sains Teh Dan Kina, 19(1). Link Here
• Villa, C., Cuna, F., Russo, E., Ibrahim, M., Grignani, E., & Preda, S. (2022). Microwave-assisted and conventional extractions of volatile compounds from rosa x damascena mill. fresh petals for cosmetic applications. Molecules, 27(12), 3963. Link Here
• Mehmood, M. H., Aziz, N., Ghayur, M. N., & Gilani, A. H. (2016). Pharmacological basis for the medicinal use of psyllium husk (Ispaghula) in constipation and diarrhea. Digestive Diseases and Sciences, 56(5), 1460-1471. Link Here
• Barreiro, A. P., Coelho, I., & Guimarães, C. (2011). Yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis A. St. Hil) and its main bioactive compounds as potential inhibitors of enzymatic and oxidative stress. Current Pharmaceutical Design, 17(15), 1592-1599. Link Here
• Zak, V., Smite, E., & Poles, M. (2018). An Overview of the Health Benefits and Antioxidant Profile of Chamomile. Journal of Herbal Medicine, 32, 65-74. Link Here
• Susilowati, R., Sabdono, A., Widowati, I., & Kusumawati, A. (2016). The Role of L-Theanine and Caffeine Content to the Neuroprotective Effect of Kombucha Tea Against MPP+ Induced Neurotoxicity in Zebrafish. Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry. Link Here
• Ramphinwa, B., Makambila, M., Selepe, M., & Amusa, N. (2023). Phytochemical, Antioxidant, and Antimicrobial Activities of Selected South African Herbal Teas. Journal of Herbal Medicine. Link Here