Chamomile tea is one of the world’s oldest herbal remedies. People have used it for centuries for its calming and soothing properties.
More and more people are looking for natural ways to relieve anxiety, and herbal remedies like chamomile are becoming increasingly popular.
If you’re looking for the best chamomile tea for anxiety, this article will help you find the right one. We’ll review some of the top brands and types of chamomile tea to help you choose the best one for your needs. We’ll focus on things like effectiveness, quality, and user reviews.
Understanding chamomile and anxiety
What is chamomile?
Chamomile is an herb that comes from the chamomile plant. German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is the variety people use most often. Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) has a different taste.
Chamomile has active compounds that can help you feel calmer, similar to the effects of the 128 Hz healing frequency. For example, chamomile has the flavonoid apigenin, which binds to receptors in your brain. It also has bisabolol, which promotes relaxation.
How chamomile helps with anxiety
Drinking chamomile tea may help you feel less anxious. Medical News Today says that chamomile tea has well-studied calming effects.
Chamomile may reduce your anxiety by changing how your neurotransmitters work. It can also help you relax and lower your levels of stress hormones.
What to look for when choosing chamomile tea for anxiety
When you’re shopping for chamomile tea, there are some things you should keep in mind.
Quality and sourcing
It’s always a good idea to look for organic and sustainably sourced chamomile. Choose brands that use eco-friendly packaging and are committed to sustainable sourcing.
When you buy organic chamomile, you can be sure that no harmful pesticides were used to grow the plants.
The region where the chamomile is grown can affect the flavor and the strength of the tea. Some people feel that chamomile grown in Egypt has the richest flavor.
Tea bags vs. loose leaf
Tea bags are really convenient, but they can sometimes contain chamomile of a lower quality. Loose-leaf tea lets you control the dosage and flavor more precisely.
For anxiety, loose-leaf tea is a good choice because it’s easy to manage your supply and make sure you always have some on hand.
Additional ingredients and blends
Chamomile tea is nice on its own, but it can be even better when it’s blended with other calming herbs. Lavender chamomile or chamomile and lavender blends can really boost relaxation.
Valerian root, lemon balm, and passionflower can also be beneficial additions to chamomile tea.
If you have allergies, it’s important to be careful about added ingredients. If you’re allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family, you should avoid chamomile altogether.
Which chamomile teas are best for easing anxiety?
While I can’t give specific medical advice, I can share some popular brands of chamomile tea that people often turn to for relaxation and anxiety relief. Keep in mind that everyone’s different, so what works for one person might not work for another. It’s always a good idea to chat with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional about the best way to manage your anxiety.
Traditional Medicinals
Traditional Medicinals is a brand that really focuses on quality and using organic ingredients. Their Organic Chamomile Herbal Tea is a classic choice. People often appreciate that it’s USDA Certified Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified, which means it’s been carefully sourced and produced. You can find it at most grocery stores and pharmacies.
Yogi Tea
Yogi Tea offers a nice variety of chamomile blends that are designed to help with stress relief and sleep. Their Honey Lavender Stress Relief tea is a popular option with a soothing flavor profile, promoting relaxation similar to 20 minute sleep music rain. They also have a Cinnamon Horchata Stress + Sleep tea, which is a bit more unique. Like Traditional Medicinals, Yogi Tea uses organic ingredients and is widely available.
Celestial Seasonings
Celestial Seasonings is a brand that’s been around for a long time, and their Tension Tamer blend is a favorite for many. While they offer a straight chamomile tea, the Tension Tamer blend includes other calming herbs like eleuthero, peppermint, and lavender. All of their chamomile teas are caffeine-free, which is ideal when you’re trying to relax.
Harney & Sons
Harney & Sons is known for the overall quality of their tea bags and their commitment to sourcing high-quality ingredients. While they may not have as many specific “stress relief” blends, their chamomile tea is a solid, well-made option if you’re looking for a pure and simple chamomile experience. You can find Harney & Sons teas at specialty tea shops and some online retailers.
Pukka
Pukka Herbs is a brand that really emphasizes organic and ethically sourced ingredients. Their chamomile is often highlighted for its purity and potency. They have some interesting blends as well, like their Love Chamomile Lime tea. They’re committed to sustainable practices, which is important to a lot of tea drinkers these days.
How to brew the perfect cup of chamomile tea for anxiety
So, you’ve got your chamomile tea. Now what? Here’s how to brew it like a pro:
- Use fresh, filtered water.
- Heat the water to around 212°F (100°C).
- Pour the hot water over your tea bag or loose-leaf chamomile.
- Steep for 5-7 minutes for the best flavor.
Keep in mind that the ideal steeping time can vary depending on the specific blend you’re using, so check the packaging for recommendations.
For an extra touch, add a bit of honey or lemon. Manuka honey, in particular, can add even more soothing properties to your tea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I feel calm after drinking chamomile tea?
Chamomile tea contains compounds like apigenin that may contribute to its calming effects. Apigenin binds to certain receptors in the brain, potentially promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Additionally, the simple act of sipping a warm beverage can be soothing and contribute to a sense of well-being. It’s important to note that the effects can vary from person to person.
How strong of a sedative is chamomile tea?
Chamomile tea is generally considered a mild sedative. While it can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, it’s unlikely to have the same potent effects as prescription sedatives. It’s often used as a gentle, natural remedy for mild anxiety or sleep disturbances. If you have severe anxiety or insomnia, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional about more effective treatment options.
What brand of chamomile tea is the best?
The “best” brand of chamomile tea is subjective and depends on individual preferences. Factors to consider include the quality of the chamomile flowers, the brewing method, and any added ingredients. Some popular and well-regarded brands include Traditional Medicinals, Pukka Herbs, and Celestial Seasonings. Ultimately, the best way to find your favorite is to try different brands and varieties to see which one you enjoy the most. Look for teas made with whole chamomile flowers for the best flavor and potential benefits.
Conclusion
When you’re looking for a natural way to take the edge off, chamomile tea can be a great choice.
With so many brands and blends available, you have the freedom to experiment and discover which one suits your taste and provides the most calming effect. Whether you prefer the convenience of tea bags or the ritual of brewing loose leaf, the perfect cup of chamomile tea is out there waiting for you.
If your anxiety symptoms continue or worsen, it’s important to talk with your doctor or a mental health professional. Chamomile tea can be a helpful addition to your wellness routine, but it shouldn’t replace professional medical advice or treatment.
Remember that small lifestyle changes, such as incorporating mindfulness practices, regular exercise, and a balanced diet, can also complement the benefits of chamomile tea and contribute to overall anxiety management.