Drinking a cup of hot tea is instantly calming to the mind and spirit. When the right medicinal herbs are combined, additional benefits can be reaped by the tea drinker. Many herbs have health benefits, and a few very special herbs have the ability to bring a bit of relief from anxiety and nausea. Someone with emetophobia may be comforted to know that drinking the right tea can calm the mind, spirit… and stomach.
Anxiety Relieving Herbs
Chamomile – Chamomile acts as a mild sedative, calms nerves, reduces insomnia, and is therefore a great choice to brew into your bedtime tea. Chamomile has been proven to reduce anxiety in those with mild generalized anxiety disorder.
Lemon Balm – This versatile herb is known for having several benefits including: restoring energy, acting as a natural decongestant, improving memory, and (you guessed it) relieving anxiety.
Passionflower – Passionflower was given its suggested name because it is a mild aphrodisiac. However, it also has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety, decrease restlessness, and improve sleep.
Valerian – Valerian is a calming herb that has been used for centuries to treat insomnia, headaches, and anxiety.
Anti-Nausea Herbs
Peppermint – Peppermint is wonderful to enjoy in a morning glass of tea, as it has an invigorating effect. Peppermint helps calm the stomach and promotes digestion.
Ginger – Although ginger is technically a spice and not an herb, it can be grated and easily brewed into a tea. Ginger is possibly the most popular and effective home remedy for nausea.
The greatest benefits of these herbs will be received by steeping herbs in dried, loose leaf form. For this reason, a tea strainer or tea ball is invaluable. Consider starting with one of the following recipes and then experimenting to find your own favorite combination (the general rule of thumb is 1 Tbsp of loose tea per cup of hot water). You may discover that the entire routine of combining herbs, steeping the tea, and finally enjoying a relaxing cup may quickly become one of the most calming parts of your day.
Tea Recipes:
1/2 Tbsp Lemon Balm
1/2 Tbsp Peppermint
Steep for 10-15 minutes and enjoy in the morning or when feeling nauseous.
1/2 Tbsp Ginger
1/2 Tbsp Passionflower
Steep for 10-15 minutes and enjoy before bed or at the first sign of anxiety.
1/2 Tbsp Chamomile
1/2 Tbsp Valerian
Steep for 10-15 minutes and enjoy before bed or when having trouble sleeping.
