A hot cup of tea is one of the essentials of a soothing nighttime routine. This is more than just taste, as many scientific studies support herbal teas for sleep disorders. Among natural sleep remedies, CBD tea has significant value for its calming effects on the brain.
Moreover, other options, like green tea, lavender tea, chamomile teas, etc., have been used for sleep issues like insomnia and restless legs syndrome. They work for mental and physical well-being with a mix of herbal ingredients. Let’s discuss the benefits of taking a cup of herbal tea before bed for restful sleep.
Top 5 Nighttime Tea Benefits
Sleep-promoting herbs have been part of folk medicine for centuries and are now available in the form of tea, incense sticks, and essential oils. Based on scientific studies, including clinical trials, the following are the proven benefits of herbal tea for sleep:
- Stress and Anxiety Relief
Most sleep issues are caused by stress or other mental issues. With a disturbed mindset, it becomes difficult to fall asleep. Herbal teas, particularly those with lavender, Ashwagandha, and lemon balm, effectively reduce stress and anxiety symptoms. They aid in achieving a relaxed mental state before bedtime and result in quality sleep hygiene.
- Balancing Melatonin Levels
Our body’s day and night cycles depend upon a hormone called melatonin. Melatonin is naturally produced within the body, and its levels fluctuate throughout the day. Our body produces a low quantity in the daytime, which results in mental alertness.
Contrarily, we need more melatonin at night to get sleepy. Irregular melatonin production causes sleep deprivation. A tea containing lemongrass, spearmint, and chamomile stimulates its production naturally. So, taking it in the evening is a good initiative toward improving night hygiene.
- Physical Relief
Body aches and muscle stiffness are also behind sleep issues and cause frequent wake-ups at night. Instead of painkillers, herbal teas work like magic for physical discomfort in the long run. For example, ginger and willow bark teas have anti-inflammatory properties and may reduce pain sensation.
So, taking tea after dinner for muscle relaxation is one of the best night rituals. It is also effective for people with arthritis or similar physical and mental health issues.
- Relaxed Mental State
Various herbal teas have sedating effects that are free from mental impairment. Without affecting rational thinking, such herbal teas help you achieve inner peace and eliminate worries. Among various options, lavender tea calms our nervous system with its elements, such as linalool and linalyl acetate. Inhaling its fragrance initiates the same response in the brain, thus making it recommended for restful sleep.
Choice of Calming Tea Blends
The market is full of options for herbal teas for sleep hygiene. A wide range confuses you when selecting a particular one. The simple answer to this issue is to pick a tea that has therapeutic properties for the cause of your sleep disorder. Some people suffer from insomnia because of depression, while others face frequent nighttime wakeups due to hormonal imbalances.
For example, green tea is the best choice for reducing physical discomfort and relaxing the body, which leads to a peaceful sleep. Moreover, valerian tea is effective in reducing hormonal imbalance and associated sleep issues. Thus, the selection of tea depends upon your condition and the cause of sleep deprivation.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for relaxing bedtime rituals to improve your sleep quality, herbal tea is a must-try. Because of their natural ingredients, such drinks are generally harmless and aid in a regular and peaceful sleep routine.
When on certain medications, remember to consult a medical health provider about herbal teas.