5 Different Types Of Tea That Help Relieve Stress
We all experience stress at varying levels in our day-to-day lives. However, if stress increases and becomes a chronic problem, it can have repercussions on our health. Chronic stress can cause mental health issues like anxiety and depression. However, many coping mechanisms like sleeping well, exercise, and a nutritious diet can help us manage stress.
One such strategy is introducing certain teas that have a calming effect on our nerves. We bring to you five different types of tea that can promote relaxation and tame stress.
1.Chamomile Tea
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Are you looking for herbal tea to soothe your frayed nerves? A soothing and aromatic cup of Chamomile tea might be just right for you. As per a 2010 study, Chamomile tea has relaxing properties. Chamomile tea is also said to promote sleep. As per a 2011 study, Chamomile helped enhance the daytime functioning of people who suffered from sleeplessness. This tea can reduce inflammation and anxiety and promote sleep.
The soothing and relaxing properties of Chamomile can be attributed to apigenin, an antioxidant; that binds to some brain receptors that help in relieving anxiety and promote sleep. You can enjoy the Chamomile-infused tea, especially in the evening or before bedtime. The fragrant flower heads and warm water concoction make for a mildly sweet and floral cup that entails relaxation after a tiring day.
2.Kratom Tea
The kratom tree is native to Indonesia, Malaysia, and other parts of South Asia. Its leaves are used as an alternative medicine to treat depression and anxiety. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate Kratom; hence it is considered a supplement. Having effects similar to an opioid, Kratom’s active ingredient,’ mitragynine,’ binds to the brain’s opioid receptors to relieve pain.
As per a 2017 review study, Kratom relieves anxiety and promotes relaxation. It also has a sedating effect. Kratom leaves can be boiled and consumed as tea. Anecdotal reports suggest that connoisseurs generally use the Indonesian Indo Kratom strain for enhanced relaxation. This mildly stimulating kratom strain comes in white, green, or red colors. This strain is known to relieve anxiety and pain while promoting feelings of well-being.
Red Maeng Da Kratom, Red Vein Bali Kratom, Red Borneo Kratom tea are other popular Kratom tea strains that you might want to try. However, please note that the dosage of Kratom in powdered form should not exceed 5 grams. Begin incrementally consuming Kratom tea. Light Kratom Vein-based tea is ideal for beginners. However, if you feel discomfort upon its consumption, immediately stop and consult a doctor.
As the use of Kratom is restricted in the United States, You might be wondering as to where can I buy Kratom? Well, you can get Kratom online in states where its usage is legal. Accordingly, a popular alternative to Kratom is Kava. The difference between the two is that Kava is made from the roots of a plant, whereas Kratom is made from the leaves of a different plant in Asia. As with any herbal supplement, it is important to research the potential side effects before using Kava for the first time. Additionally, if you have any questions about Kava such as ‘can it cause liver damage?‘ you can find plenty of helpful resources online.
3.Lavender Tea
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You might have heard about people using Lavender essential oils in aromatherapies and bath salts. But, do you know that you can also get this purple flower’s relaxing effects through its tea? Well, the flowering plant’s purple buds are used to make the aromatic tea. Lavender tea helps to relax and settle frayed nerves. Its soothing fragrance can help you unwind. As per a study, postnatal women who smelt the aroma of lavender and drank its tea for two weeks experienced less tiredness than women who did not consume the tea.
Lavender is a popular choice in herbal blends, acting as a soothing addition to enhancing feelings of relaxation.
4.Valerian Root Tea
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Valerian root has been used since times immemorial for headaches, insomnia, and nervousness. During World War II, this herb was used in England to deal with stress and anxiety caused due to air raids. Today, it is sold as a dietary supplement in the United States. This root is dehydrated and sold as tea. As per a 2010 study, Valerenic acid lowers stress and anxiety by minimizing the breakdown of a neurotransmitter named gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. When present in sufficient quantities, the GABA can reduce anxiety and promote sleep.
It should be noted that though Valerian root tea is used to relieve stress and improve sleep quality, the evidence supporting such claims stands inconclusive.
5.Passionflower Tea
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Passionflower has been used traditionally to reduce stress and anxiety. The Passiflora plant leaves, flowers, and stems are dried to make tea. Early studies show that passionflower boosts GABA levels in your brain. This compound might reduce brain activity, therein inducing relaxation and promoting sleep. In a Phytotherapy Research trial, participants who consumed purple passionflower tea for a week experienced better sleep quality.
Passionflower can help reduce anxiety. A study claimed that patients who consumed purple passionflower just before scheduled surgery experienced lesser anxiety than those who were administered a placebo.
Create a herbal infusion by adding dried passionflower to boiling water. You can find dried passionflower or its tea at many health food stores across the United States.
Bottomline
Besides the above, there are many other teas like green tea, rosemary tea, catnip tea, oat straw tea, etc., that can help relieve stress. Furthermore, good sleep hygiene, keeping sugar at bay, and indulging in other stress management techniques can also keep stress and anxiety at bay.
But, if you want to consume these teas as an alternative treatment, it is advisable to talk to your doctor to evaluate their potential risks and benefits.
