5 relaxing herbs that can be used in hot drinks

A recent survey found that 50% of people admit to rising anxiety and stress levels because of their busy schedules. Modern life can limit our ability to relax and make it hard to find a quiet moment. There is a quick way to find relaxation though as many herbs and flowers offer relaxing effects when taken as a hot cup of tea.

Camomile

First discovered during the Egyptian period, Camomile is a muscle relaxant and a sedative that eases stress and anxiety. The Egyptians held the plant in high regard because of its medicinal benefits and used it as a cure for multiple illnesses.

Lavender

Lavender flourishes in many environments, including gardens across the UK. It’s commonly used in shower gels and soaps due to its fresh aroma, but it can help calm and soothe when inhaled during a bath or taken as a tea.

Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm is a member of the mint family and was first used during the middle ages as a cure for anxiety and sleep deprivation. A study found that 81% of people who had used the herb reported a better quality of sleep, because of its sedative effect.

Ashwagandha

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Ashwagandha is a common ingredient used in Ayurveda (Indian) medicine. The herb has several medicinal properties including the ability to decrease cortisol concentrations, which lowers stress levels

Passionflower

Passionflower, also known as Passiflora, is an indigenous South American and South East Asian plant and grown across the entire world. The plant calms and relaxes by increasing the level of a chemical called gamma aminobutyric acid, which lowers brain activity causing a heightened feeling of relaxation.

All the plants and herbs listed are drinkable in a hot tea and available in capsule or oil form. If there are any herbs that you feel we’ve missed, let us know in the comments below.