Teas for Stress and Anxiety: The Best teas to drink to feel at peace

“Chai toh sirf ek drink nahi hai, yeh ek emotion hai.”

That’s what my friends used to say as they sat at a chai ki tapri and asked for another cup of tea from the vendor. And honestly? I didn’t quite get it as a kid. But as life threw in deadlines, late-night calls, overthinking, and too many WhatsApp notifications, her words started to make a lot more sense.

If you’re someone juggling the chaos of modern life, be it working from home, studying for exams, managing home and kids, or just existing in this fast-paced world, stress and anxiety can become unwanted regulars at your mental chai pe charcha. But here’s the good news: nature has its own way of slowing us down. And one of the most ancient, comforting ways is tea, not just any tea, but blends that are specially crafted to help calm the nerves. 

I remember a rainy afternoon in Mumbai when I found myself caught in the relentless cycle of emails, deadlines, and endless to-do lists. With the sound of raindrops on the window and my mind spinning in a whirlwind of thoughts, I reached for a cup of tea, a simple, humble brew that to my surprise actually helped me relax a little. That is the magic of tea, maybe it was the moment of relief or pause, or it was a little warm sip, the whole ritual of tea drinking really soothes the mind, and nurtures the soul. 

Good morning, tea friends! While I do hope that you all are having a beautiful and easy week, I recognize that stresses and anxieties are real and present in all of our lives. Whether you are involved in a large project at work, planning a wedding, moving, dealing with little ones home from school for the summer, or anything in between, we all have stressors that cause us angst or uneasiness. While we certainly can’t take away these things for you, we want to help you navigate them and ease them. First and foremost, I would like to preface this by saying that I am by no means a medical professional. The teas that I will recommend are simply ones that we have found ourselves, or customers here have found, to be helpful in dealing with stress or anxiety, or ones that I have found to be beneficial in doing my own research for the purpose of this article. That being said, if you have any of your own recommendations for some of our teas that have helped you personally, I encourage you to share the story with us. 

HOW TEA HELPS YOU FEEL RELAXED

Before we talk about the type of teas and practices, I’ll first try to explain why tea works so well and why your brain loves it!

Tea, especially herbal and green varieties, contains compounds like L-theanine, which helps promote relaxation without drowsiness. Think of it as nature’s version of “Netflix and chill” for your brain. Unlike coffee, which spikes your energy and can sometimes make anxiety worse, certain teas gently soothe your nervous system. But beyond science, tea is also a ritual. The act of boiling water, letting the leaves steep, smelling the herbs, and holding a warm cup in your hands slows you down. It creates a moment. And sometimes, that pause is all your mind needs. 

Tea has been cherished in India for centuries. From the robust masala chai served on busy street corners to the delicate infusion of green teas in our urban cafes, tea holds a special place in our hearts. Its cultural significance goes beyond taste, it’s a moment of pause, a shared conversation, and a bridge between generations. In Ayurvedic tradition, tea is often used as a remedy for balancing the body and mind. The calming properties of certain herbs have been recognized for ages, and today, modern science is catching up with what our ancestors knew so well. Studies have shown that antioxidants, like those found in green and herbal teas, can reduce inflammation and promote relaxation. This makes tea a natural ally in the battle against stress and anxiety.

TEAS YOU SHOULD DRINK TO EASE STRESS AND ANXIETY

Stress and anxiety aren’t just abstract feelings, they have a tangible effect on our bodies. The pressure can lead to sleepless nights, racing thoughts, and even physical symptoms like headaches and a tense back. Here’s where tea steps in as a gentle, yet effective, remedy.

Calming Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea is often referred to as nature’s lullaby. With its subtle, floral aroma and soothing taste, it’s the perfect drink for winding down after a long day. Many have experienced the calming effect of chamomile during stressful moments. As one friend from Delhi once told me, “A cup of chamomile is like a warm hug on a cold day, it just makes everything feel alright.”

Chamomile is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which not only help in reducing anxiety but also improve sleep quality. Whether you’re battling a stressful workday or restless night, chamomile can be your gentle reminder to slow down and breathe. 

Best time to drink: Before bedtime or during evening wind-down.

Pro tip: Add a drizzle of honey if you’ve had a particularly rough day.

Tulsi (Holy Basil) Tea

Tulsi, or holy basil, is revered in Indian households for its myriad health benefits. It’s more than just a sacred plant, it’s a natural stress-buster. Tulsi tea has been traditionally used to improve immunity, reduce stress, and promote mental clarity. Its slightly spicy, earthy flavor is a comforting taste of home, reminding us of ancient rituals and the nurturing care of our elders.

Drinking tulsi tea can help regulate cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress. When life feels overwhelming, a warm cup of tulsi tea can act as a gentle pause button, allowing your mind to reset and refocus. 

Best time to drink: Mid-morning or late afternoon.

Fun fact: In Ayurveda, tulsi is considered “Elixir of life”. Now that’s some heavy praise!

Green Tea: best for antioxidants

Green tea is famous worldwide for its health benefits, and its popularity in India has grown in recent years. Loaded with antioxidants, green tea supports overall well-being and is particularly effective in managing stress. The subtle, refreshing flavor of green tea makes it a perfect beverage for any time of the day.

Beyond its physical benefits, green tea has a meditative quality. The ritual of brewing and savoring a cup can become a mindful practice, offering a moment of tranquility amid the daily grind. In busy metropolitan cities like Bangalore or Hyderabad, many professionals turn to green tea as a quick yet effective way to recharge during hectic work hours. 

Best time to drink: Morning or early afternoon.

Taste tip: Avoid drinking it on an empty stomach. Have it with some light snacks or after meals.

Earl Grey: Citrusy bergamot for energizing punch

While not a traditional Indian tea, Earl Grey has found a unique place in the hearts of many urban tea lovers. Its distinctive citrus aroma, thanks to the infusion of bergamot oil, can elevate your mood and spark creativity. Freshleaf’s own Earl Grey is a testament to this, offering a burst of citrust sophistication that serves as the perfect midday recharge. For those moments when your mind feels foggy and your creativity is on a plateau, a sip of Earl Grey can provide just the lift you need to see the world in a new light.

Best time to drink: Midday slump or before a brainstroming session.

Bonus: Great for sore throats and groggy mornings too.

TEAS AS A DAILY RITUAL FOR MENTAL WELLNESS

In our fast-moving lives, establishing a daily ritual can be incredibly grounding. The process of making tea, boiling water, selecting the right blend, steeping the leaves, and finally, savoring that first warm sip, offers a structured moment of mindfulness. It’s a chance to slow down and give your mind a break from the barrage of thoughts.

Imagine starting your morning with a quiet moment dedicated to yourself. You might choose a robust chai to awaken your senses, or perhaps a gentle green tea to set a calm tone for the day ahead. These moments of pause not only help in reducing stress but also set a positive, reflective tone for your entire day. 

For many, tea time becomes a cherished routine, a ritual that connects us to our roots and helps us navigate modern life with grace and calm. 

A PERSONAL NOTE FOR THOSE WHO’RE DEALING WITH ANXIETY AND STRESS

I’ve often found myself in moments where stress seemed insurmountable. Whether it was the chaos of urban life or the pressure of meeting deadlines, there were times when I felt like I was drowning in responsibilities. In those moments, tea became my sanctuary, a quiet ritual that allowed me to reconnect with myself.

One evening, after a particularly grueling day in Pune, I sat on my balcony with a steaming cup of tulsi tea. The aroma of the herbal brew mingled with the cool night air, and a few precious minutes, I felt a deep sense of calm wash over me. It was a reminder that even in the midst of chaos, there are small pockets of peace waiting to be discovered. This personal experience is one of many that reaffirm how tea can be a powerful tool in managing stress and anxiety.

TEA AS A COMMUNITY

In India, tea has always been a social beverage, a way to connect with friends, family, and even strangers. Whether it’s a morning chat over a steaming cup of chai at the local tea stall or an afternoon break in the office pantry, tea fosters conversation and builds community. 

Sharing a cup of tea can break the ice in new relationships and strengthen bonds with old friends. It’s a gentle reminder that in a world full of digital distractions, the simple act of sitting down and talking over tea can bring genuine human connection. This communal aspect of tea drinking is something we cherish at Freshleaf, and it inspires us to create blends that are as much about flavor as they are about fostering moments of connection.

TEA AS A MINDFULNESS PRACTICE

Mindfulness is a practice that has gained immense popularity in recent years, and for good reason. It teaches us to be present in the moment, to appreciate the here and now, and to manage stress by focusing on our breath and our senses. Tea naturally lends itself to this practice. 

Taking the time to prepare your tea, to notice its aroma, to watch the steam rise, and then to savor that first sip is a form of mindfulness. It’s a way to disconnect from the constant noise of the world and reconnect with your inner self. Even if it’s just for five minutes a day, these mindful moments can have a profound impact on your mental health.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Stress and anxiety may be inevitable parts of modern life, but they don’t have to overwhelm us. With every cup of tea, we are offered a moment of respite, a chance to slow down, breathe, and reclaim our peace of mind. Whether you choose chamomile for its calming properties, tulsi for its ancient wisdom, or green tea for its rejuvenating power, remember that these simple rituals are powerful tools in nurturing mental wellness. 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a professional before making changes to your health regimen.