11 Best Calming Teas to Fight Stress and Anxiety
Let us help you discover what the world of calming teas has to offer to help you de-stress and relax!
INTRODUCTION
Sometimes you can’t get a minute to yourself. You’ve got work, dinners to make, washing to do, and a phone constantly pinging.
In today’s society of instant responses and gratification, stress and anxiety seem to be the norm.
Fortunately, the world of tea has many options to help fight stress and anxiety. There are stress relief teas for all tastes and preferences.
Sitting down with a cup of calming tea and taking ten minutes to relax can make all the difference.
It’s not just the act of sitting down with a cup of hot tea and taking some time out that helps.
But also...
Different types of tea have lots of health benefits and can physically help you fight anxiety and stress.
Like a clenched fist in a cup ready to spring and knock out those negative emotions.
Tea has been used around the world for centuries for healing. Even before our modern age where stress and anxiety seem to be more prevalent, people used teas to soothe and calm.
And nowadays there are plenty of scientific studies backing up these claims!
For example…
Some teas can lower cortisol, the hormone that causes stress and can improve your sleep.
Other teas are full of antioxidants, amino acids, and polyphenols, all of which can fight anxiety and stress.
Besides stress, teas can help fight headaches and even help you deal with cramps!
Let us guide you through the world of anxiety teas so that you can make the best choice for yourself!
Let’s get calmed!
11 Best Calming Teas to Fight Anxiety & Stress
1. Chamomile Tea
Infamously known as a calming tea, Chamomile has a fragrant aroma and a delicate floral taste. It is also one of the most ancient herbs known to humankind.
How Chamomile is a calming tea:
- Chamomile tea contains terpenoids and several phenolic compounds such as flavonoids, apigenin, and glucosides, which all have medicinal qualities.
- The flavonoid apigenin binds to receptors in the brain and may be the cause of the calming effect of Chamomile tea.
- A study found that long-term use of chamomile extract, reduced moderate to severe general anxiety.
- Chamomile has been used for centuries and more than one million cups a day are consumed. It is one of the oldest and most documented medicinal plants.
- A member of the daisy family, chamomile has bright gold cones of flowers with tubular white florets.
- It is used as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. It can aid digestion, and ease menstrual disorders and muscle spasms.
- It also decreases blood pressure which helps lower pain and anxiety.
BEST CALMING TEA: CHAMOMILE TEAS CATEGORY
Chamomile Organic Infusion by Teatulia
| Brand and Name | Chamomile Organic Infusion by Teatulia |
| Brewing Temperature | 200 degrees Fahrenheit (93 degrees Celsius) |
| No. Servings | 40grams |
| Highlights | • Organic • Fairtrade • Helps women employees get an education |
| Bottom Line | A sustainable and organic tasty stress tea. |
Chamomile Organic Infusion by Teatulia
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Why Chamomile Organic Infusion by Teatulia is our top choice:
- Organic, caffeine-free, and Fairtrade.
- Sustainable tea garden in northern Bangladesh, one of the top tea growing regions in the world.
- Smaller batches are produced so the result is fresher leaves.
- The leaves come straight from their tea garden to your cup.
- They use the whole flowers which means the health benefits and flavor are kept intact.
- Packaging is in recyclable cans.
- They work with the community and offer their women employees education.
2. Mint Tea
If you are stressed, mint tea is certainly an excellent tea for anxiety.
With its refreshing smell, simply inhaling mint tea can ease sickness or help headaches. Its fresh flavor reinvigorates you as soon as you take your first sip.
How mint tea is a calming tea:
- Mint has been used in traditional medicines to ease stress and stress-like symptoms such as upset stomach and headaches.
- Mint contains phenolic constituents in its leaves which have significant antimicrobial and antiviral activities. It is an antioxidant and has some antiallergenic potential.
- It relaxes the stomach and is often prescribed for nausea during pregnancy.
- It is caffeine-free so it can be taken before bed. It may improve sleep, although studies have had mixed results.
- Mint tea may also be good for stress relief as it has an anesthetic effect to help reduce pain.
BEST CALMING TEA: MINT TEAS CATEGORY
Super Mint Herbal Tea by Stash
| Brand and Name | Super Mint Herbal Tea by Stash |
| Brewing Temperature | 200 degrees Fahrenheit (93 degrees Celsius |
| No. Servings | 100 |
| Highlights | • Packaged in stay fresh foil • Uses cotton string and plastic-free fiber bags • Made from Stash’s Super Mint with actual wild mint frown in the Pacific Northwest. The first company to use this particular prized peppermint in teamaking. |
| Bottom Line | An ethical company using premium mint for a great taste. |
Super Mint Herbal Tea by Stash
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Why Super Mint Herbal Tea by Stash is a great calming tea:
- Uses premium Pacific Northwest wild mint for a cool and refreshing flavor.
- Stash is a certified B Corp meaning they don’t make tea just for profit, but also in the best interests of their people, partners, and the planet.
- Caffeine-free so you can drink it anytime.
- Non-GMO and use sustainable packaging.
3. Jasmine Teas
Just smelling a cup of fragrant jasmine tea releases chemicals in your body that help you relax.
How jasmine makes a great tea for anxiety:
- Jasmine tea has many health benefits including improving the appearance of your skin, help with weight loss, and strengthens your immune system.
- Inhaling Jasmine can reduce your heart rate which can calm you and help you sleep as per this study.
- Jasmine tea can be caffeine-free so it is another stress tea that can be enjoyed before bedtime.
- It has anti-inflammatory properties and can increase blood circulation.
BEST CALMING TEA: JASMINE TEAS CATEGORY
Dragon Pearl Jasmine by Harney & Sons
| Brand and Name | Dragon Pearl Jasmine by Harney & Sons |
| Brewing Temperature | 175 degrees Fahrenheit (80 degrees Celsius) |
| No. Servings | 20 |
| Highlights | • Donate 1% to environmental organizations • Medium-bodied with the full force of jasmine aroma Hand-rolled pearls |
| Bottom Line | Company uses jasmine from Fuan, China in hand-rolled pearls for a fragrant flavor.. |
Dragon Pearl Jasmine by Harney & Sons
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Why we love Dragon Pearl Jasmine by Harney & Sons:
- Gently infused with hand rolled jasmine flowers for a strong jasmine smell.
- Blend has floral and sweet notes.
- Lightly caffeinated so it gives you a boost and enhances your mood.
- Family business that is Fairtrade and promotes sustainability, they donate 1% towards environmental organizations!
4. Lavender Teas
The lavender plant has grey green leaves with a beautiful purple flower.
It has a flowery smell that can aid your sleep, just by putting a couple of drops of lavender oil on your pillow.
How lavender tea helps fight anxiety:
- Adding lavender in your tea before bed will help you sleep, with its sedative qualities.
- It can reduce your heart rate and cause less fatigue, giving you a restful sleep.
- This relaxing tea can help you wind down at the end of a busy day.
BEST CALMING TEA: LAVENDER TEAS CATEGORY
Organic Lavender by FGO
| Brand and Name | Organic Lavender by FGO |
| Brewing Temperature | 200 degrees Fahrenheit (93 degrees Celsius) |
| No. Servings | 4oz or 16oz bags |
| Highlights | • 100% raw lavender from France • Use reusable bags • USDA certified culinary grade lavender. |
| Bottom Line | A pure organic lavender to give your tea the full taste and health benefits. |
Organic Lavender by FGO
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Why Organic Lavender by FGO is our recommended Lavender stress tea:
- It is made with 100% raw organic lavender grown in southern France.
- It is packaged in the highest quality Kraft bags with a layer structure with a foil lining to keep the lavender as fresh as the day it is picked.
- The packaging has a tear notch for easy opening
5. Valerian Root Tea
Valerian Root tea is made from dried roots and has a unique odor that some might find unpleasant.
Native to Europe and Asia, it was used by ancient Greece and Rome. Hippocrates described its uses, and it was used as a stimulant in the 19th century.
How valerian root tea is a great stress tea:
- It is particularly good for sleep problems including insomnia.
- It contains volatile oils such as valerianic acids and was used to treat stress symptoms such as trembling, headaches, and nervousness.
- It is also used for gastrointestinal spasms, so it could soothe an upset stomach.
- Studies don’t tend to agree on whether it is useful for sleep issues but the volatile oils in Valerian Root do have sedative qualities
BEST CALMING TEA: VALERIAN ROOT TEAS CATEGORY
Organic Nighty Night Valerian by Traditional Medicinals
| Brand and Name | Organic Nighty Night Valerian by Traditional Medicinals |
| Brewing Temperature | 200 degrees Fahrenheit (93 degrees Celsius) |
| No. Servings | 16 |
| Highlights | • Promotes a good night’s sleep • Kosher, organic and GMO free. • Earthy and minty flavor |
| Bottom Line | A refreshing tea to aid sleep. |
Organic Nighty Night Valerian by Traditional Medicinals
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Why Organic Nighty Night Valerian is our pick anxiety tea for this category:
- It is made with organically farmed plants and wild herbs.
- Blended valerian with herbs like passionflower, lemon balm, and peppermint, which also help fight stress and anxiety.
- Their herbalists select high-grade medicinal herbs.
- Rigorous testing during the manufacturing process.
6. Kava Tea
Kava is a tropical evergreen plant with heart-shaped leaves. It is a pacific islands ritual tea for anxiety.
Kava tea could be compared to drinking muddy water. With a brownish appearance and an earthy, slightly bitter taste, it may not sound the most appealing.
However, the effects of Kava tea have been enough to continue its popularity as a calming tea.
…even if it is an acquired taste.
How kava tea is a great calming tea:
- It has active ingredients called Kavalactones which may help reduce anxiety and pain. They may target neurotransmitters receptors in the brain to relax you.
- Many studies have shown that it is effective for anxiety and improves sleep. It may also help with stress-induced anxiety.
BEST CALMING TEA: KAVA TEAS CATEGORY
Kava Stress Relief by Yogi
| Brand and Name | Kava Stress Relief by Yogi |
| Brewing Temperature | 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius) |
| No. Servings | 16 |
| Highlights | • Cinnamon and Sarsaparilla add a warmth and spiciness. • Inspired by ancient holistic healing philosophy of Ayurveda. • Carob pod gives a rich flavor. |
| Bottom Line | A tea inspired by creating wellbeing with a rich spicy flavor |
Kava Stress Relief by Yogi
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Why Kava Stress Relief is an amazing choice for a stress tea:
- The cinnamon and sarsaparilla add warmth while the Carob Pod brings a rich flavor.
- · Caffeine free so it can be taken before bed.
- Made with organic, non-GMO products.
- Carob pods tastes like chocolate and contain protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Inspired by Ayurveda, an ancient healing philosophy that recommends a holistic approach to wellness and the importance of bringing body, mind, and spirit into balance.
7. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb, a traditional Indian system of medicine. It has been used for over 3,000 years as a tea for anxiety.
Another tea that may remind you of eating dirt. It is slightly bitter and earthy. The smell isn’t much better, being compared to the smell of a horse.
That might not bother you though if you really love horses.
The plant has yellow flowers that are native to India and north Africa.
How ashwagandha tea is a great tea for anxiety:
- It is classed as an adaptogen, meaning it aids your body resist stressors.
- It can lower blood sugar and cortisol and contains withanolides which fight inflammation.
- One study found it regulates the chemical signaling in nervous system making you calmer.
- Another study found in a group of people with chronic stress, those that took the ashwagandha had a 69% reduction in anxiety and insomnia compared with the group that didn’t take ashwagandha.
BEST CALMING TEA: ASHWAGANDHA TEAS CATEGORY
Ashwagandha by Buddha Tea
| Brand and Name | Ashwagandha by Buddha Tea |
| Brewing Temperature | 203 degrees Fahrenheit (95 degrees Celsius) |
| No. Servings | 18 |
| Highlights | • Steep for 10 minutes for full flavor. • Certified organic, no additives of flavoring • Packaged in bleach free tea bags • Earthy, slightly pungent taste |
| Bottom Line | A pungent tea full of health properties. |
Ashwagandha by Buddha Tea
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Why Ashwagandha Tea by Buddha Tea is our top Ashwagandha pick for stress tea:
- Ashwagandha by Buddha Tea is crafted from top quality Indian ashwagandha root powder.
- Earthy flavor, a little pungent, with a hint of creaminess. A little honey can be added to make it sweet.
- Fresh, pure, organic, and wild harvested ingredients are used for this tea.
- We love our planet…and Buddha Tea have a Teas for Trees campaign, planting trees every year to offset the paper in their tea bags.
8. Passionflower Tea
With a grassy and mild flavor, this calming tea is made from the dried leaves, flowers, and stems of Passiflora plant.
How passionflower tea is an excellent stress tea:
- It has been shown to be as effective as Ambien for sleep quality. Instead of popping pills, enjoy a cup of tea before bed to act as a mild sedative.
- It may work by increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is an amino acid that reduces activity in your central nervous system. The result is a better mood and better sleep.
BEST CALMING TEA: PASSIONFLOWER TEAS CATEGORY
Stress Release Passion Flowers Carob by Adanim Bio
| Brand and Name | Stress Release Passion Flowers Carob by Adanim Bio |
| Brewing Temperature | 212 degrees Fahrenheit (100 degrees Celsius) |
| No. Servings | 20 |
| Highlights | • Caffeine-free • Kosher • Made with fresh herbs. |
| Bottom Line | A 100% natural tea with a layered taste. |
Stress Release Passion Flowers Carob by Adanim Bio
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Why is Stress Release Passion Flowers by Adanum Bio is our pick for passionflower stress tea:
- This tea contains carob which gives a rich taste to this delicate tea.
- USDA organic and Kosher, made of 100% natural ingredients, with no colorants.
- It includes carob and ginger with added benefits and enhanced flavor!
9. Matcha Green Tea
Matcha green tea has been used for centuries for its many health benefits. A sweetener like honey can be added, or a touch of lemon.
How matcha green tea fights stress:
- Green tea has many properties that make it a great anxiety tea. It contains polyphenolic compounds called catechins which neutralize free radicals.
- It also contains I-theanine, an amino acid that reduces anxiety.
- Matcha is high in caffeine with roughly 75 milligrams per cup. Not only will it relieve your stress but it will give you a boost of sustained energy.
- This study found a healthy Korean population who regularly drank green tea were 21% less likely to develop depression.
- Traditionally, matcha is served during the Japanese green tea ceremony, which is focused on mindfulness. This promotes living in the now, which helps reduce anxiety.
BEST CALMING TEA: MATCHA GREEN TEA CATEGORY
Organic Japanese Matcha by Jade Leaf
| Brand and Name | Organic Japanese Matcha by Jade Leaf |
| Brewing Temperature | 176 degrees Fahrenheit (80 degrees Celsius) |
| No. Servings | 100g |
| Highlights | • Pure-shade grown in the Uji and Kagoshima regions in Japan. • Family-run network of tea farms across Japan. • Organic Japanese matcha |
| Bottom Line | A pure organic ceremonial matcha tea. |
Organic Japanese Matcha by Jade Leaf
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Why is Organic Japanese Matcha by Jade Leaf our top pick:
- Pure-shade grown green tea leaves used to create a pure matcha powder.
- The tea is farmed using traditional and modern techniques to cultivate the tea.
- Established since 1858, the Kizuna Tea Collective, wanted to bring pure Japanese matcha to America.
- Money back guarantee if you don’t love their product – no questions asked!
10. Jasmine Green Tea
A delicate tea with a touch of sweetness. This tea has a subtle, floral aroma. The smell triggers a parasympathetic response, meaning it releases chemicals in the body to relax you.
How jasmine green tea helps with anxiety:
- This is an amazing stress tea as it combines the benefits of both green tea and jasmine.
- Green tea has many properties that make it a great anxiety tea. It contains polyphenolic compounds called catechins which neutralize free radicals.
- It also contains I-theanine, an amino acid that reduces anxiety.
- As per this study, simply inhaling Jasmine can reduce your heart rate which can calm you and help you sleep
BEST CALMING TEA: JASMINE GREEN TEAS CATEGOR
Jasmine Green Tea by Oriarm
| Brand and Name | Jasmine Green Tea by Oriarm |
| Brewing Temperature | 176 degrees Fahrenheit (80 degrees Celsius) |
| No. Servings | 225g |
| Highlights | • Naturally processed. • Blend of Chinese Fujian green tea leaves and jasmine flowers. • Handcrafted 1st grade jasmine. |
| Bottom Line | A perfect blend of fragrant jasmine and delicate green tea. |
Jasmine Green Tea by Oriarm
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Why Jasmine Green Tea by Oriarm is our top pick:
- Grown at at 1200m above sea level in Mount Emei, one of the four scared mountains in China, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Naturally processed to maintain the integrity of the leaves.
- Five times scenting process to make hand-rolled pearls. The result is a delicate tea with bright jasmine notes.
- This is a beautiful looking tea. Once served, just looking at it will make you feel relaxed.
11. Tulsi Tea
Also known as holy basil, it is native to the Indian subcontinent.
It has a strong aroma. Being related to the basil family, it has peppery notes and can be a little bitter.
How tulsi tea is a good stress tea:
- Tulsi is a highly revered culinary and medicinal herb that has been used for thousands of years. It is sometimes referred to as the ‘elixir of life’ due to its healing qualities.
- Many studies have reported multiple therapeutic qualities including adaptogenic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective and immunomodulatory qualities.
BEST CALMING TEA: TULSI TEAS CATEGORY
Tulsi Tea by Davidson
| Brand and Name | Tulsi Tea by Davidson |
| Brewing Temperature | 200 degrees Fahrenheit (93 degrees Celsius) |
| No. Servings | 100 |
| Highlights | • Third generation organic tea growers. • Direct from garden teas to your cup. • Pure and uncompromised ingredients. |
| Bottom Line | An eco responsible company with a light, earthy tea. |
Tulsi Tea by Davidson
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Why Tulsi Tea by Davidson is a great calming tea:
- Grown in the midst of the Himalayas across 10,000 acres.
- Ingredients are pure and uncompromised.
- Light, earthy undertones and minty top notes.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions about Calming Teas
Are there any side effects of drinking these teas?
It is always best to check with your doctor as some of the teas may have contraindications. For example, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding some of these teas are not advised.
Do calming teas actually work?
There has been may scientific studies that show a number of these teas do have a definitive calming effect on your body. For the other teas, studies show promising results, but further evidence or human studies are needed for a definitive conclusion.
Will these teas help with mental health issues?
If you suffer from mental health issues, then the teas are worth a try. They may not be as effective on diagnosed mental health conditions but they will create a calming effect and possibly help you have a good night’s sleep which is always beneficial to your mental health.
Are tea bags or loose tea best for calming teas?
Loose tea is better quality as it is not broken into smaller pieces. When tea leaves are broken into smaller bits, the oils from which their flavor and health benefits emanate can be lost or degrade. We recommend getting a tea infuser for all your tea needs!
Bottom Line - Best Calming Tea
There’s plenty of teas that can aid in reducing your stress and help you have a good night’s sleep. So, stick on that kettle, experiment with some flavorsome teas, and put your feet up.
Let us know which calming tea is your favorite and let us know if you would like us to feature your favorite tea for anxiety!