Contents
About the Blend
Relax and Rest tea is a mix of herbs with relaxing nervine properties. It can help ease an anxious mind and lift the spirit. I find this tea helpful after a stressful day or whenever I have trouble sleeping. All of the ingredients have pretty strong floral flavors, so you can adjust the amounts to your liking. You could also add a bit of honey to sweeten it or peppermint for some sparkle. I recommend testing out a small cup before making a big batch and recording your experiences in a journal.
Ingredients
There are many herbs that have relaxing and calming properties, but I chose these specific plants for a few reasons. First, I grow all of them in my garden, so I have easy access. Second, each of these flowers brings me joy and lifts my spirits, especially in the dark winter months. Lastly, I’ve tested each herb alone and together, so I know the blend works well for me. I encourage you to try this mix of herbs and then adjust it to make it your own. Look at the actions and energetics of each plant, then decide what works for you.
1. Bee Balm
Monarda spp.
- Energetics: Warming and drying
- Actions: Nervine, gentle sedative, emmenagogue, carminative, antifungal, antibacterial, diaphoretic, diuretic
- Parts Used in Blend: Leaves and flowers
Good for insomnia and digestive upset
Bee balm is part of the mint family (Lamiaceae), and like other mints, it is very aromatic. It is native to North America and used by many indigenous tribes as a culinary and medicinal herb. There are many species in the Monarda genus, but I grow M. fistulosa and M. media. They are both purple varieties and have a beautiful floral, minty fragrance. The leaves are a bit spicier and more similar to oregano.
Do not take while pregnant.
2. Lavender
Lavandula angustifolia
Good for nervous stress, headaches, and insomnia
3. Chamomile
- Energetics: Slightly cooling, slightly drying
- Actions: Nervine, Antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, carminative, diaphoretic, emmenagogue, stomachic, bitter
- Parts Used in Blend: Flowers
Good for restlessness, stress, digestive upset, and colic
Chamomile is part of the daisy family (Asteraceae), and is native to Europe. It is a highly revered and versatile plant. It can be used on its own to promote relaxation or combined in a blend. On nights when I just can’t fall asleep, I make a cup of chamomile lavender tea with a dropper full of California poppy tincture, and I’m out within 20 minutes.
Do not take while pregnant.
4. Rose
- Energetics: Cooling and drying
- Actions (flower petals and buds): Nervine, astringent, anti-inflammatory, cardiotonic, antimicrobial, diuretic, anticatarrhal, antianxiety, and aphrodisiac
- Parts Used in Blend: Flower buds and petals
Good for sadness, anger, depression, grief, and nightmares
Rose is part of the rose family (Rosaceae). She is the queen of the garden radiating beauty, love, and strength. Rose flowers will help ease heartache, sadness, and promote self-love.
5. Lemon Balm
Melissa officinalis
- Energetics: Cooling and slightly drying
- Actions: Nervine, carminative, sedative, antiviral, antidepressant, diaphoretic
- Parts Used in Blend: Leaves
Lemon balm is another member of the mint family (Lamiaceae). Its floral lemon scent is bright and uplifting. Lemon balm’s lemony flavor is a lovely compliment to the florals in this blend. It is especially helpful for calming restlessness and encouraging sleep.
Lemon balm may not be safe for those with hypothyroidism. It may be helpful for Grave’s disease or hyperthyroid issues.
Directions
Mix all ingredients in equal parts. Pour 8 oz. of just boiled water over 1 tsp. of blend. Cover and steep for at least 10 minutes. Strain and serve.
Keep a tea journal to record how this blend and others affect you. Adjust the ingredients to suit your energetics and preferences.
Disclaimer: I am providing a brief and general overview of these herbs for educational purposes only.
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