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When it comes to beating anxiety and alleviating stress, nothing works quite as quickly as a soothing cup of tea! Studies show that herbal teas have the uncanny ability to control anxiety, release stress, and provide instant relief from nervous tension. All types of tea work great when it comes to soothing the nerves but these healing teas are proven effective in banishing stress and anxiety:
1. Chamomile Tea
When it comes to calming tea, chamomile tea is a perennial favorite and it certainly tops this list! Chamomile is an effective remedy for anxiety and insomnia because it contains compounds that control the brain chemical cortisol. Cortisol is a stress hormone that triggers the body’s “fight or flight” response. This steroid hormone gives the body a quick boost of energy but leaves you psychologically drained.
Chamomile’s soothing rep has spanned for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians used chamomile tea as a remedy for various disorders caused by nervous tension. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology reported that drinking chamomile tea reduces anxiety among participants suffering from mild to moderate generalized anxiety disorder.
2. Passionflower Tea
Passionflower tea has an invigorating, fruity aroma and a deep, earthy flavor. This tea is traditionally taken to reduce stress. Studies show that passionflower tea increases the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid or GABA in the brain. GABA is a type of amino acid that promotes a sense of calm and uplifts the mood.
A University of Maryland Medical Center study reported that when combined with other calming herbs, passionflower tea induces deeper relaxation and better sleep. A separate study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics found that the tea is effective in managing the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder.
3. Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea has a light, refreshing taste and an equally invigorating aroma. This tea makes the perfect pick-me-upper because it calms the nerves and clears the mind. The secret to the calming effects of peppermint tea is its muscle-relaxing effects. The herb contains certain nutrients that alleviate tension in the muscles. This leads to an instant and deep relaxation. Peppermint tea also promotes better sleep and enhances mental alertness.
A study published in the International Journal of Neuroscience reported that the herb increases focus and concentration among participants. A separate study conducted by University of Cincinnati researchers confirmed the mind-boosting benefits of peppermint tea.
4. Valerian Root
Valerian root is traditionally used to treat sleep disorders and induce calmness. When taken as a tea, valerian root makes an excellent stress buster! A report by MedlinePlus noted that valerian is possibly effective as a treatment for insomnia and anxiety disorder. A separate study published in the American Journal of Medicine found that valerian promotes better sleep without causing any side effects. The study involved reviewing 16 studies on the effects of Valerian root.
5. Kava Tea
Kava tea is perhaps one of the most well researched herbal remedies for controlling anxiety symptoms. In fact, some scientists believe the soothing effects of kava tea are comparable to that of common anxiety drug Buspar. But unlike Buspar, kava tea is neither addicting nor cause side effects.
The herb contains kavalactones, compounds that alter the brain chemistry. Studies show that kava tea promotes calm and reduces the risk of depression and anxiety. As a natural sedative, kava tea promotes better sleep, eases muscle pain, and treats insomnia.