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Relaxing with a hot drink before bed is always a great idea if you’re looking to unwind and promote better sleep — unless it’s a double espresso, obviously. Some hot beverages are better than others when it comes to easing the tension in your body, helping you de-stress, and putting your mind in a more peaceful state.
If you’re searching for the ideal hot drink you should have every night before bed for better sleep, look no further than this caffeine-free beverage, which is pretty much synonymous with a more relaxed and peaceful self.
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Herbal Teas
Just as different types of medications address different health concerns, there is a universe of herbal tea varieties out there that are beneficial to your health and that vary in terms of the benefits they deliver.
Herbal teas are packed with flavonoids that can lower your risk of heart disease and even cancer. While it’s true that herbal teas, which are made by steeping fruits, seeds, herbs, and roots in hot water, are generally lower in antioxidants then their close cousins green, black, and white teas, they contain way less caffeine, making them a better bedtime beverage choice.
There are a number of herbal teas from which to choose, but some come out on top when choosing a tea that is known for its relaxation properties.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea comes from a daisy plant and is widely regarded as one of the best (if not the best) herbal tea for sleep and relaxation. In addition to its anti-inflammatory benefits, which makes it a good choice if you have stomach upset, some studies have shown chamomile has a mild sedative effect, according to Molecular Medicine Reports:
“Chamomile is widely regarded as a mild tranquilizer and sleep-inducer. Sedative effects may be due to the flavonoid, apigenin that binds to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain. Studies in preclinical models have shown anticonvulsant and CNS [central nervous system] depressant effects respectively… 10 cardiac patients are reported to have immediately fallen into a deep sleep lasting for 90 minutes after drinking chamomile tea.”
Ginger Tea
If stomach pains or nausea are keeping you up at night, or if you are having trouble digesting your dinner and being able to rest, a cup of hot ginger tea can help. Ginger benefits your body by improving digestion and your body’s ability to absorb nutrients from food. It’s an excellent aid if you have irritable bowel syndrome, general nausea, or run-of-the-mill gas and upset stomach. Add a teaspoon of raw honey and a sprinkle of anti-inflammatory turmeric to your ginger tea and you’ll increase its potential as a natural and healthy sedative.
Bigelow Sweet Dreams Herbal Tea ($16.14)
With a name like “Sweet Dreams,” it’s pretty much a guarantee that this ready-made herbal tea bag packet delivers the goods. This tea blend contains chamomile, spearmint, peppermint (excellent for calming the tummy), and hibiscus flowers. It’s soothing, delicious, and will put you in the right frame of mood for rest, relaxation, and a deep sleep.
For more tips on teas, check out 4 Teas Nutritionists Swear By To Get A Flat Stomach Fast and The One Anti-Inflammatory Tea You Should Have Every Morning To Lose Stomach Fat on SHEFinds.com.
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