Today: More research is needed, but adding a cup of tea to your bedtime routine could have health benefits.
Chamomile builds in the system over time and can be an effective sleep aid. Chamomile has a calming effect, which is why it may help you fall asleep. When you’re more relaxed (think head not racing) it’s easier to drift off to sleep. One study published in 2017 found that when hospitalized elderly patients in nursing homes received oral capsules of chamomile twice daily, for four weeks, their sleep quality improved.
Apigenin is an antioxidant compound found in chamomile that affects the central nervous system. It’s believed that apigenin binds to receptors in the brain that may decrease anxiety and induce sleep. While more research is needed to establish the link between chamomile and sleep, a cup of this tea may just be the missing ingredient to your bedtime routine.
Part of the mint family, lemon balm tea is well known to help with digestive issues such as gas and bloating and may also improve sleep disorders. One study showed that lemon balm supplementation may decrease depression, anxiety, stress and sleep disorders in patients with chronic stable angina. It’s also been known to be anti-anxiolytic which may also help that racing mind.
