Relax With a Cup of Tea

Having a cup of tea during the day can serve many purposes. It can energize you in the morning, give you a mid-day pick me up, make you feel better if you aren’t feeling well, warm you up if you are cold, cool you down if you are hot. A good cup of tea works wonders on the body. A cup of tea with the right ingredients can also relax you after a stressful day and help you sleep if you are having trouble winding down. I love a warm cup of tea in the evening to help me relax.

What is it about tea that helps to relax the mind? Many people find the process of making tea to be very calming. Heating the water, scooping the tea leaves, watching the tea brew, and savoring every sip can be a very relaxing ritual if you enjoy the process. Tea’s ability to relax the body is more scientific than just enjoying the ritual.

There is an amino acid in tea called Theanine that is known for reducing anxiety because it increases the number of inhibitory neurotransmitters and regulates serotonin and dopamine. This helps to balance our moods and makes us feel good. So even after a stressful day, a cup of tea can help us feel better.

What Kinds of Teas Help You Relax?

I typically stick with Herbal Teas when I am trying to relax but a good white or green tea with the right ingredients works well too. Here are six herbs that I look for in my “Chill Time” Teas.

**It is important to do your own research and consult a physician before using any herb.
**Affiliate links are included in this article**

Chamomile:

Chamomile is well known for its ability to help you relax before bed, it can help calm anxiety and is a natural sleep aid. It an anti-inflammatory so can help reduce headaches and can soothe an upset stomach. It can also help to reduce menstrual cramps (ladies, it is a life saver!). Some people say it can help reduce the risk of cancer. I have even seen used tea bags of chamomile put on pink eye to calm the irritation.

Lavender:

Lavender is one of my favorite add ins for a relaxing tea. There are so many amazing benefits to lavender, it can ease headaches, it helps to calm the nerves and acts as a sedative so it helps you fall asleep easily. It is also known to help with tummy troubles. Lavender can help to sooth anxiety and depression, the scent helps to calm the mind.

Lemongrass:

Lemongrass is another great add in for teas! It is an anti-inflammatory so can reduce pain to help the body relax. It can help to improve digestion as well as lower cholesterol. Some people really like this tea on it’s own but typically it is mixed with ginger and/or other ingredients to bring out the sweet flavor. Nursing mom’s have also said that lemongrass has helped to increase their milk supply.

Vervain:

I know, I know, the only time you have ever heard of vervain is when you watched The Vampire Diaries on the WB (One of my favorite shows!). Believe it or not, it is a real plant with real relaxing qualities! Vervain Tea is good for anxiety, calming the nervous system, and if you drink it about an hour before sleep it can help promote a good nights rest. Drinking this tea during meals can also help aid digestion and weight loss. It is also believed to be a fever reducer and can eliminate phlegm and mucus when you have a cold.

Holy Basil:

Known as the “Queen of Herbs” and the “Elixir of Life”, Holy Basil is another perfect addition to any evening tea. Holy Basil can help combat stress and reduce cholesterol. It promotes healthy liver function and can boost the immune system. Holy Basil is also very high in antioxidants, has antibacterial properties and can aid in digestion. It is also said that Holy Basil, also called Tulsi Tea, can reduce fevers.

Valerian Root:

Finally, Valerian Root is known for its ability to ease muscle and joint pain. It can help ease headaches and migraines and has been used to treat mild tremors related to epilepsy. Valerian Root can help with insomnia and chronic restlessness as well as depression.

Other Ingredients to Look For:

These are just a few of the main ingredients that I look for when I am purchasing a tea to help me relax. Other ingredients that help you relax are:

Jasmine- lowers cholesterol and blood pressure. Gives relief from stress and chronic joint pain
Rose Hips- Improves blood circulation. Boosts immune system
Passion Flower- Used to reduce anxiety and depression. Fights insomnia and relieves stress.

I have included many of my favorite teas throughout this article. Some of them I have tried. Most of them I know the company but have not tried the teas myself.

I also really enjoy creating my own blends using the Custom Blends option on Adagio Teas website! The first tea I created is called Cat Nap and is a mix of rooibos, chamomile, jasmine, vanilla, and hibiscus. When you purchase one of my signature blends 5% of the sale goes to benefit one of my favorite chariTEA’s Angels Among Us Pet Rescue in Atlanta, Georgia.

What is YOUR Favorite Tea to Relax With?

Leave me a comment below!!

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