7 Best Teas for Sleep

Adequate sleep is vital for productivity, mental clarity, stress management, and overall health. Unfortunately, the worries and anxieties of everyday life are keeping millions of Americans from getting proper rest. Instead of turning to over-the-counter and prescription medications to improve sleep, there are several natural sleep aids that can help. Herbal tea is one of the most effective ways to relax and reduce stress before bedtime. Plus, it is caffeine-free, completely natural, and comes with many health benefits.

If you are looking for a healthy way to fall asleep quickly, we outline 7 of the best teas for sleep. We also highlight how each tea promotes relaxation and alleviates stress before bed.

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1. Chamomile Tea

For centuries, chamomile tea has been revered for its calming effect on the body, making it a common recommendation for those with insomnia. The reason chamomile is an effective bedtime tea is that it contains a flavonoid and antioxidant called apigenin. Apigenin binds to the benzodiazepine (BDZ) and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the brain, which calms the central nervous system and has a mild sedative effect on the mind and body.

Although there are very few clinical studies to support chamomile’s use as a sleep aid, a 2017 study shows that chamomile effectively promoted sleep in 60 elderly patients. These individuals were given 400 mg of chamomile extract each day. After two weeks, these patients reported better sleep quality than those who were given a placebo.

2. Lavender Tea

Lavender is known for its calming and pleasant scent. This herb is often used in bath products and candles to promote tranquility and relaxation. However, many people may not realize that the small purple lavender flowers can be used to make tea.

In addition to its aromatic properties, lavender also contains silexan. Through steam distillation, silexan oil is derived from lavender flower tops. Although research still new, one study found silexan oil could decrease anxiety and improve sleep quality.

3. Valerian Root Tea

Like chamomile, valerian root is widely considered to be a natural and effective sleep aid and anti-anxiety treatment. Although valerian root can be found in liquid and capsule form, valerian tea is the most common way to consume this dried root.

Researchers believe valerian’s ability to increase GABA levels is the reason it promotes sleep and relaxation. High levels of GABA neurotransmitters have been shown to cause sleepiness.

A study from 2000 found that 600 milligrams of valerian extract had a similar effect to 10 mg of oxazepam, a commonly prescribed sleep aid used to combat symptoms of insomnia and other sleep disorders. However, participants who took valerian did not experience any of the side effects typically associated with oxazepam, such as daytime drowsiness.

4. Lemongrass Tea

Lemongrass tea has a fruity, light, and airy flavor. When consumed regularly, it has been shown to regulate the sleep schedule, lengthening sleep duration, and decrease anxiety.

Experts believe lemongrass tea is an effective sleep aid because it helps trigger the release of serotonin, the hormone responsible for improving mood and promoting feelings of contentment. If you suffer from restlessness or racing thoughts before bed, lemongrass tea can help lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone), so you don’t miss out on valuable sleep.

5. Passionflower Tea

Passionflower is a flowering vine that has a mild earthy flavor when dried and steeped in tea. This plant has over 500 species and has many benefits, including relaxation, better sleep, mood enhancement, and pain relief.

Several studies show that passionflower, like valerian root, naturally increases the presence of GABA in the brain. GABA, the amino acid responsible for decreasing activity in the central nervous system, helps promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. In fact, one study involving 40 adults found that those who drank passionflower tea every day for 1 week reported better quality sleep.

6. Lemon Balm Tea

Since the Middle Ages, lemon balm leaves have been dried and used to make a soothing, aromatic tea. Although this herb is part of the mint family, it has a citrus scent and taste many people find calming.

A 2011 study revealed that patients with a mild-to-moderate anxiety disorder and sleep disturbances showed signs of improvement when taking Cyracos®, a standardized lemon balm extract. Throughout the 15-day study, patients experienced an 18 percent reduction in anxiety-related symptoms and a 42 percent decrease in insomnia related symptoms.

7. Peppermint Tea

Peppermint tea is known for being a safe, non-toxic aid for digestive issues, including bloating, an upset stomach, and indigestion. However, peppermint is also an effective sleep aid. Its anti-inflammatory properties have been shown to promote muscle relaxation and increase drowsiness. If you suffer from chronic acid reflux or GERD, a cup of peppermint tea can help soothe the esophagus and promote relaxation.

For pregnant women who frequently experience indigestion and heartburn at night, peppermint tea can also help alleviate these symptoms and encourage sleep.

Did We Help?

Prescription sleeping pills come with many dangerous side effects, such as changes in appetite, dry mouth and throat, headaches, dizziness, and tingling in the hands, feet, and legs. Although they may effectively promote sleep, many patients who rely on these sleep aids often experience daytime sleepiness and a lack of productivity.

Herbal teas can help sleepers avoid these harmful symptoms and still get a good night’s sleep. Plus, many of the teas on our list, including chamomile and lemon balm, have antioxidant properties that can help cleanse the body of toxins and decrease the risk of developing cancer.