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10 Drinks That Help Reduce Anxiety
Looking for some natural anxiety relief? This can (and should be) a multi-pronged approach. Many people (myself included) have found success in dealing with my anxiety through a combination of natural remedies. While it’s important to note that drinks alone may not be a substitute for professional help when dealing with anxiety, some beverages are known for their calming and soothing effects, which may help you on your journey. There’s nothing as relaxing as a soothing drink that is both nutritious and comforting. Here are 10 Drinks That Help Reduce Anxiety.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile is well-known for its calming properties and is commonly used as a natural remedy for anxiety. Its mild sedative effects can help ease nervousness and promote better sleep. While there’s a lot of great options out there, I’m particularly fond of Taylor’s Organic Chamomile Tea. It’s really affordable, too.
hamomile is an herbal plant that has been used for centuries for its numerous health benefits. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and comes in two common varieties: German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile). Both types are known for their soothing properties and are often consumed as a tea or used in topical applications. Here are some of the health benefits of chamomile:
- Reducing anxiety and promote better sleep. Like I mentioned here, drinking chamomile tea before bedtime is a popular way to enjoy these benefits (and very tasty!)
- Aids digestion: Chamomile has been traditionally used to support digestive health. It can help ease indigestion, bloating, and gas, as well as reduce stomach cramps and gastrointestinal inflammation.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Chamomile contains compounds that possess anti-inflammatory effects, making it beneficial for conditions like skin irritations, mild eczema, and other inflammatory skin conditions.
- Immune system support: Chamomile tea contains certain compounds that can potentially strengthen the immune system and protect against common infections and illnesses.
- Menstrual relief: Chamomile’s relaxing properties may help ease menstrual cramps and reduce the severity of premenstrual symptoms (PMS) in some women.
- Antioxidant properties: Chamomile contains antioxidants, such as flavonoids, which help neutralize free radicals and protect the body’s cells from oxidative stress.
- Allergy relief: Some studies suggest that chamomile may help alleviate allergy symptoms by blocking the release of histamines in the body.
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Green Tea
Green tea contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which has been linked to reduced anxiety and improved focus. It can provide a gentle sense of relaxation without causing drowsiness. Now, it’s important to note because there’s a lot of misinformation around Green Tea. There is caffeinated green tea, and decaffeinated green tea. I highly recommend avoiding caffeinated teas and beverages which are known to worsen anxiety. I cut caffeine out of my diet entirely and noticed a huge shift in my mental health. It didn’t cure everything, but I think my daily caffeine consumption was really worsening my symptoms.
Other Benefits of Green Tea:
- Rich in antioxidants: Green tea contains catechins, a type of polyphenol, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). These antioxidants help neutralize free radicals in the body, which can reduce oxidative stress and damage to cells.
- Boosts metabolism: Some studies suggest that green tea may aid in weight management.
- Improves brain function: The combination of caffeine and the amino acid L-theanine in green tea can enhance cognitive function.
- Promotes dental health: Green tea possesses antimicrobial properties that can help combat bacteria in the mouth.
- Supports immune system: The antioxidants in green tea can contribute to a strengthened immune system.
- May reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Lavender Latte
Combining a latte with a dash of lavender syrup or dried lavender can create a soothing drink. Lavender is associated with calming effects and may help reduce stress. I’m particularly fond of making it from scratch with some oat milk, personally. I haven’t found a really good company that makes a lavendar lette that I like yet. If I find one, I’ll definitely update this blog post.
Health Benefits:
- Relaxation and stress relief: Lavender is renowned for its calming properties and may help reduce stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation. Drinking lavender tea before bedtime may aid in better sleep quality.
- Improved sleep: As mentioned earlier, lavender tea’s calming effects can help promote better sleep.
- Digestive aid: Lavender tea may have mild digestive benefits. It can help soothe the digestive system, reducing bloating, gas, and indigestion. Additionally, it might be useful in relieving stomach cramps.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Lavender contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body. This could potentially benefit conditions like arthritis and certain skin issues.
- Antioxidant effects: Lavender contains antioxidants, such as flavonoids and terpenoids, which can help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. This may contribute to overall health and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Respiratory support: The aroma of lavender tea may help relieve congestion and respiratory issues when inhaled. Some people find relief from colds, coughs, and sinusitis by drinking lavender tea or inhaling its steam.
- Skin benefits: Lavender tea, when applied topically or consumed, may have positive effects on the skin. It could soothe minor skin irritations, such as sunburn, insect bites, and rashes.
Valerian Root Tea
Valerian root has been used as a herbal remedy for anxiety and insomnia for centuries, as well as a replacement for some typical anxiety medications. Drinking valerian root tea before bedtime may promote relaxation and aid in better sleep. I find that it’s easier to drink in a tea than it is to take in tincture or pill form, too.
Here are some of the potential benefits and uses of valerian root:
- Sleep Aid: Valerian root is most well-known for its ability to improve sleep quality and treat insomnia. It contains compounds that may increase levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which has a calming and sedative effect, promoting relaxation and sleep.
- Anxiety and Stress Relief: Valerian root may help reduce anxiety and stress due to its GABA-boosting properties. By calming the nervous system, it can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and promote a sense of tranquility.
- Sedative Effects: It is a common replacement for benzodiazapenes
- Menstrual Cramp Relief: Some women use valerian root to alleviate menstrual cramps and discomfort during their periods.
- Headache Relief: Due to its muscle-relaxing and tension-reducing properties, valerian root might help ease headaches and migraines caused by stress or muscle tension.
- Mild Muscle Relaxant: Valerian root may act as a mild muscle relaxant, potentially helping to ease muscle spasms and tension.
Lemon Balm Tea
Lemon balm is a herb with mild sedative properties that can help ease anxiety and promote a sense of calmness when brewed as a tea. It’s a common ingredient in teas that mention “stress relief” etc. Often with other herbs on this list, actually. But I recommend trying Lemon Balm Tea first like this one from Traditional Medicinals.
Lemon balm, scientifically known as Melissa officinalis, is an aromatic herb that belongs to the mint family. It has been used for centuries for its various medicinal properties and is valued for its pleasant lemony fragrance and taste. Here are some of the potential health benefits associated with lemon balm:
- Calming and Relaxation: Lemon balm is known for its calming and soothing effects on the nervous system. It may help reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve sleep quality, making it useful for managing stress and mild sleep disorders.
- Antioxidant Properties: Lemon balm contains compounds with antioxidant properties, such as rosmarinic acid and flavonoids. These antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, which can contribute to various chronic diseases and aging.
- Antimicrobial Effects: Lemon balm has shown some antimicrobial activity, which means it may help combat certain bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.
- Digestive Aid: Lemon balm has been used traditionally as a digestive tonic. It may help soothe digestive discomfort, reduce gas and bloating, and improve overall digestion.
- Cognitive Function: Some studies suggest that lemon balm may have positive effects on cognitive function and memory. It may help improve focus, concentration, and mental alertness.
- Mood Enhancement: Due to its calming effects, lemon balm may help improve mood and may be beneficial for individuals dealing with mild depression or mood swings.
- Menstrual Discomfort: For some women, lemon balm may help alleviate menstrual cramps and discomfort.
Passionflower Tea
Passionflower has been used to reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. Brewing dried passionflower leaves as a tea can provide relaxation benefits. It’s definitely a little harder to find than some other things on this list. When I want Passionflower tea I go down to my local herbarium. It has a really unique taste too that might take some getting used to!
- Anxiety and Stress Relief: Passionflower is often used as a natural remedy for anxiety and stress due to its calming effects. It may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and promote relaxation by increasing levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter that has calming effects.
- Antioxidant Properties: The flavonoids and other antioxidants in passionflower can help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, protecting cells from oxidative damage and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
- Mood Enhancement: Passionflower may help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. By promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, it can have a positive impact on overall emotional well-being.
- Menopausal Support: Some studies suggest that passionflower may be beneficial for women experiencing menopause-related symptoms, such as hot flashes, mood swings, and insomnia.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: Certain compounds in passionflower possess anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body and potentially benefit conditions related to chronic inflammation.
Tulsi Tea (Holy Basil)
Not only is Tulsi Tea good at promoting relaxation, but it’s good for your joints, your heart, etc. Tulsi is an age old remedy to stress and it’s easy to find amazing teas that promote stress relief. I drink this tea, no joke, at least 5 times a week. It’s that good. I’ve loved this tea for over 10 years. I see it being a staple in my tea closet for the rest of my life.
- Adaptogenic properties: Tulsi is considered an adaptogen. In short, that means it may help the body adapt to stress and promote overall resilience. Regular consumption of tulsi tea may help manage stress and anxiety.
- Immune system support: Tulsi tea is rich in antioxidants and essential oils. Overall which can help bolster the immune system, making it more effective in fighting off infections and diseases.
- Respiratory health: Tulsi tea has been used traditionally to alleviate respiratory issues like coughs, colds, and bronchitis. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of tulsi may help soothe the respiratory system and promote easier breathing.
- Digestive aid: Drinking tulsi tea can support digestion and help relieve indigestion, bloating, and stomach cramps. It is believed to have carminative properties that can ease gastrointestinal discomfort.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: The compounds found in tulsi leaves have anti-inflammatory properties. That helps reduce inflammation in the body, potentially benefiting conditions like arthritis.
- Antioxidant properties: Tulsi tea contains various antioxidants like flavonoids and polyphenols, which can help neutralize harmful free radicals.
- Blood sugar regulation: Some studies suggest that tulsi may help regulate blood sugar levels.
Ashwagandha Tea
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb known for its stress-reducing properties. Brewing ashwagandha root as a tea may help alleviate anxiety symptoms. It’s also super common in tincture forms or mixed with some of the other herbs on this list. I also suggest finding at your local herbarium for the freshest, but if you must buy online this one is known to be all natural and organic.
- Stress reduction: Ashwagandha is considered an adaptogen, which means it may help the body cope with stress by regulating stress hormones like cortisol. Consuming Ashwagandha tea may promote relaxation and reduce feelings of anxiety.
- Drinking Ashwagandha tea before bedtime may promote better sleep.
- Enhanced immune function: The herb contains compounds that can strengthen the immune system, making the body more resilient to infections and illnesses.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Ashwagandha has been found to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce inflammation in the body and alleviate certain inflammatory conditions.
- Antioxidant activity: The herb is rich in antioxidants, which can help combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body.
- Cognitive support: Some research suggests that Ashwagandha may support cognitive function and memory, potentially offering benefits for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and age-related cognitive decline.
- Energy and vitality: Ashwagandha is believed to increase overall energy levels and stamina, making it beneficial for combating fatigue and improving physical performance.
- Hormonal balance: In some studies, Ashwagandha has shown potential in balancing hormones, which may be helpful for individuals with hormonal imbalances or reproductive health issues.
- Support for the nervous system: Ashwagandha may have a calming effect on the nervous system, promoting overall well-being and mental clarity.
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint is a true gift. An all around magical herb, honestly. I have so many forms of peppermint around my house from roller for headaches, to a bathroom spray I made from scratch. It’s a staple in many households like mine because it has very few side effects and a ton of benefits.
- Digestive aid: Peppermint tea is well-known for its ability to soothe digestive issues, such as indigestion, bloating, gas, and stomach cramps. It works by relaxing the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, promoting the flow of bile, and reducing spasms, which can alleviate discomfort.
- Relief from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Studies have shown that peppermint oil, which is one of the active components in peppermint tea, may be effective in easing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), including abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel movements.
- Respiratory support: The menthol in peppermint tea has a soothing effect on the respiratory system, making it helpful in relieving symptoms of congestion, coughs, and sinusitis. Inhaling the steam from a cup of hot peppermint tea can also provide relief for nasal congestion.
- Antioxidant properties: Peppermint tea contains antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which help combat free radicals in the body. Antioxidants are beneficial for overall health and may help protect cells from damage caused by oxidative stress.
- Pain relief: The menthol in peppermint tea has mild analgesic properties, which means it may help alleviate headaches and muscle pain when consumed or applied topically.
- Bad breath improvement: Peppermint tea’s natural antiseptic properties can help freshen breath and combat bad breath.
- Weight management support: Peppermint tea can aid in weight management by promoting healthy digestion and reducing overeating due to its ability to help control appetite.
Golden Milk (Turmeric Latte)
Golden milk is a blend of milk, turmeric, and other spices. Turmeric contains curcumin, which has been studied for its potential anti-anxiety effects. It has a world of other benefits too, which you can read about in our article about turmeric here. As I’ve mentioned … it’s one of the most health-focused herbs out there – and it’s promoted for good reason. It’s definitely an acquired taste but I have found that it’s easy to replace coffee with this in the mornings. Naturally caffeine-free, and helps soothe my anxiety.
Final Thoughts on 10 Drinks That Help Reduce Anxiety
The planet has so much goodness to offer to help you stay well. Whether you’ve been reading about natural remedies for years, or are just discovering it – I hope that you are able to find relief from your suffering soon. One of the things I love about holistic healing is that most things are safe. (But talk to your doctor!) and can really change your life. I have struggled with anxiety my entire life and found things on this list to really have a large impact on my life. Anxiety can often feel like it’s in charge and that you are simply along for the ride. Every thing you do to bring in more rest and ease to your life matter. and will help you on your journey to wellness. If any of this helped, we’d love to hear about it.