In any case, chamomile flowers—which look like adorable, tiny daisies—contain flavonoids, terpenoids, and coumarins which certainly have mildly sedative, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties.
Though chamomile is available in capsules, most people most commonly come across chamomile pre-packaged in tea sachets or in the form loose form tea. The flavor of chamomile tea is naturally floral, delicate, and pleasant, but if you prefer a sweeter infusion, a few drops of lemon and a spoonful of honey compliment it nicely—and may have the additional benefit of soothing an irritated tummy.
The best herbs for sleep and anxiety
Chamomile may be among the best known herbs for inducing relaxation in the form of tea, but many other plants have therapeutic benefits, too. For example, valerian root is also also used in teas for relaxation, while lavender is a favorite for its signature fragrance and soothing properties. Below, a look at those and other popular herbs that are frequently combined with chamomile to help reduce anxiety and induce sleep.
Valerian root
In studies, valerian root has been shown to help relax the muscles; it has a woodsy, earthy flavor. This medicinal herb also possesses muscle-soothing spasmolytic properties, and is often used as a remedy for menstrual cramps and digestive issues like IBS.
Lavender
This aromatic flower is widely known for its soothing properties. Even just inhaling its oil has been shown to reduce insomnia, ease anxiety, and possibly even soothe depression. When used in tea, it releases a lovely, pleasant scent.
Hawthorn berry
This antioxidant-rich berry is anti-inflammatory and has been shown to potentially ease anxiety and aid digestion, but is also used to treat cardiovascular disorders—especially in the case of heart palpitations or increased heart rate caused by stress and anxiety. Because of its calming and relaxing power, a relaxing hawthorn herbal tea can also be consumed throughout the day as needed, not just in the evening to aid sleep.
Passionflower
Researchers have found that this gorgeous purple flower contains mood-boosting neurotransmitters that may help treat anxiety, insomnia, and pain. Also endowed with anti-spastic properties, passionflower may soothe gastrointestinal disorders, aid digestion, and relieve menstrual pain.
Lemon balm
This citrus-scented mint leaf has been shown to relieve stress, induce sleep, and reduce anxiety. When combined with other medicinal herbs, its effects can be extra pronounced. Passionflower and St. John’s Wort amp up lemon balm’s sedative properties, while chamomile and valerian accentuate its anti-anxiety benefits.
Hops
You may know hops best as the ingredient in beer, but some studies suggest that the flower of this leafy green vine may improve the sleep-wake cycle, helping you fall asleep and stay asleep. Additionally, it may improve hot flashes and even depression.
Hemp
With an intense herbaceous and bitter taste, hemp is often combined with more delicate flavors such as lemon balm to make a soothing tea. Hemp contains cannabinoids like CBD and CBN, which have relaxing, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, and antidepressant properties that may be useful for helping insomnia, reducing anxiety, and inducing a sense of calm.
How to prepare a relaxing herbal tea for sleep
If you thought herbal teas were made just simply by dunking a tea bag in hot water, you are not the only one. Turns out herbal teas can actually be prepared in a variety of different ways—and many connoisseurs have their method for extracting maximum flavor and power. Luckily, each are relatively easy.