Sleep is essential to your body. It is the time when our bodies repair and recharge. Many of us do not sleep the required six to eight hours each night. And others are unable to fall asleep in the first place. Instead of taking an over-the-counter sleeping pill, a cup of hot tea at night will relax you and prepare you for sleep. If you make a tea with natural sleep-inducing properties, you are on your way to a good night's sleep. Three of the most commonly used teas to aid in sleep are chamomile, valerian and lemon balm.
Chamomile
Chamomile is used in many herbal remedies. The chamomile flower looks like a daisy, with a yellow center and white petals. Tea is the best way to use this herb. Drink one cup an hour before bedtime. It has properties to help you relax. Check with your doctor if you take heart or blood-thinning medication, as chamomile may cause adverse effects.
Valerian
Valerian has been used for quite some time as a nerve tonic to relieve anxiety. It has an ability to relax the nerves and calm an individual. This is the same reason why people use it to help them sleep. Most people use a valerian pill to help them sleep, but valerian also comes in tea form. Brew a bag of valerian tea for five minutes. Sweeten with honey or agave nectar and sip slowly.
Lemon Balm
When talking about lemon, we normally think of the fruit. Lemon balm is actually part of the mint family, and looks similar to a mint leaf. Lemon balm is a calming herb, used to alleviate anxiety and stress. A tea made from lemon balm is good to sip on about a half-hour to an hour before bedtime. There is no need to sweeten this tea, as lemon balm is both tart and sweet.
References
- BNet Health Publications: 5 Natural Ways to Get a Good Night's Sleep
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Lemon Balm
- Encyclepedia of Natural Medicine; Michael Murray, M.D.; 1997
