Sleepytime Tea in Tea

Does drinking hot tea help you sleep?

For many people, drinking hot tea is a bedtime ritual, and the mere ritual of preparing it and drinking it can be a calming part of your nightly routine and help you wind down from a busy day. Some teas claim to contain herbal ingredients that will help induce sleep as well. Drinking hot tea in general may also be soothing, no matter the flavor. It can help you destress, calm anxiety, and even help with mild nausea or stomach troubles—all things that might keep you up at night.

What ingredients in tea may help you relax or sleep better?

Most teas that claim to help with sleep usually contain chamomile. Many people believe the herb helps reduce stress, fatigue, and anxiety, and it may be calming. Teas with valerian root may also help promote sleep. Other tea ingredients that can promote peace, calm, and sleepiness might include lavender, lemon balm, and passionflower.

What should I look for or avoid in a tea that will help me sleep?

Many teas designed to help with sleep will say so on the label or even have a name that implies it helps with sleep or insomnia. Otherwise, look for herbal teas that don't contain caffeine or other ingredients that claim to increase energy. Teas that claim to help reduce stress, anxiety, and nervousness may also help with sleep. Avoid any type of tea or related product with sugar as it can also keep you up late. Finally, if there's a certain flavor that you enjoy that soothes and relaxes you, you may want to choose that for your bedtime hot tea.