We live in a society in which stress is normal part of the day. Problems lurk at every corner. Pressure builds up, and it is becoming normal to feel depressed, down, and just mentally and emotionally exhausted. Anxiety and stress are hard to deal with, there is no denying the fact.
When you are suffering from anxiety and depression, there is only one question you need to answer. Should you reach for medications like antidepressants, or look for some natural solution? Well, let’s start by saying that anti-depressants do not treat the cause and root of the problem. They are not taking care of the stress you are feeling, and the reason for your stress. Antidepressants offer just immediate relief. On the other hand, calming and relaxing teas can help you relieve stress, and feel more energetic with each passing day. That being said, let’s take a look at the teas you should consume on a regular basis.
Peppermint tea
This aromatic tea is one of the best remedies for stress and anxiety. Peppermint contains menthol, which is a natural muscle relaxant. When you are anxious and stressed out, you will feel tense and irritable. Peppermint tea helps you relax.
Drinking a cup of this “magical tea” will help you relax and achieve overall calmness. In addition, peppermint tea lacks caffeine, making it even better option for a before bed calming remedy. One cup and you will sleep like a baby. At least that is the expression. The only downside is pregnant women must avoid consuming peppermint tea.
You can prepare by using both dry and fresh peppermint leaves. If you are using dry peppermint leaves, add 1 tablespoon of leaves per 8 ounces of boiling water. Steep for 3-4 minutes, and then let it cool down a bit before drinking. For fresh leaves, add them in boiling water and simmer for 2 minutes. Make sure to simmer before drinking
Rose tea
Another highly healthy and beneficial tea is rose tea. In addition to its many benefits, rose tea will help you relieve stress and anxiety. Rose tea helps you ease your mind. Same as peppermint, it is best to drink before going to bed as it will help you sleep well.
You can prepare it with fresh or dried rose petals. Just add them in boiling water. Remember, fresh petals need to be washed before adding to the boiling water. Steep for 5 or 10 minutes. You will know your tea is ready when the rose petals turn dark. Strain, and drink.
Chamomile tea
For many years, chamomile tea has been praised for its calming effect. Chamomile is best for consumption before bed, as it reduces and treat insomnia. The tea works very similarly as peppermint tea, as it helps you relax the muscles and reduce irritability.
If you are using dry chamomile, you need 4 tablespoons of chamomile per 8 ounces of fresh water. Steep for 5 minutes before drinking. If you are using fresh flowers, add them in a pot of water and infuse for 3 minutes. As with every other fresh tea, strain before consuming.
Passion flower tea
Passion flower contains flavone chrysin, a compound that has anti-anxiety properties. Similar as other teas on this list, it will help you induce good night sleep. If you are taking sedatives, however, avoid consuming this tea. Children under 6 months old and pregnant women should also avoid passion flower tea.
The best way for preparation is to add 1 tablespoon of dried flower in a cup of boiling water and steep for 10 minutes.
Lemon balm tea
This is another calming herb that belongs to the mint family. Similar as peppermint, this tea has a natural mint flavor, but also a slight a taste of lemon. Lemon balm tea reduces production of cortisol, or otherwise known as the stress hormone. In addition to treating stress, lemon balm also improves your mood.
Add 1 tablespoon of lemon balm per 1 cup of boiling water for dried and 2 tablespoons for fresh leaves. Steep for 5 minutes, and then strain before consuming.
Green tea
Green tea has a number of benefits for our body, mind and soul. Most of them are because of the high antioxidants content in green tea. Polyphenols in green tea helps us battle stress and anxiety. Bear in mind that green tea contains caffeine, so it can make you feel drowsy if you over-drink it. Stick to 2 cups per day. Add a half a tablespoon of green tea powdered leaves in 1 cup of water. Boil until the leaves settle to the bottom. Strain, and drink.