To combat stress and anxiety, some doctors often prescribe anxiolytics, which are used primarily to treat certain types of depression. Between 2006 and 2010, the sale of “black stripe” drugs increased by 36% in Brazil. The danger of using this type of medication is the excessive intake, which can cause a series of side effects and even dependence.As an alternative to using these medications, many are betting on herbal medicines and teas, which are made with plants that act similarly to synthetic “drugs”. Who has never heard someone’s advice to drink chamomile tea to calm down?

Despite being natural, some herbs used to produce the tea have contraindications and it is recommended to always consult a doctor before betting on infusions to treat something (especially if the use of tea is associated with other medications).

Soothing tea recipes

chamomile tea

It is certainly the best known and most sought after herb when it comes to tea with a calming effect. Chamomile can also be used to fight gout, circulation problems, rheumatism and inflammation in general. To prepare tea, boil half a liter of water and add a teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers and leaves. Leave it in for 15 minutes, strain the tea and it will be ready for consumption.

Passionflower tea

Like the passion fruit, the leaf and flowers of this plant also have calming effects. It also has antidepressant, analgesic, antispasmodic, hypotensive, sedative and muscle relaxant properties. To make the infusion, bring to the fire a cup of tea of ​​water and as soon as it starts to boil, turn off the heat. Add a fresh, chopped leaf. Keep container closed for five minutes and then serve.

Lemon balm tea

Also known as melissa, it has essential oils that soothe and fight anxiety, in addition to having a spasmolytic and digestive effect. To prepare, boil 200 ml of water and add between 10 and 15 herb leaves and a lemon sliced ​​with the skin. Turn off the heat and simmer for about five minutes.

St. John’s wort tea

This herb had its effectiveness proven by studies carried out at the Center for Complementary Medicine in Munich, which proved that the herb has an effect superior to placebo and similar to antidepressant medications used in mild and moderate depression. To prepare tea, boil a cup of water and add a dessert spoon of the herb. Let stand in a container for about five minutes and it will be ready for consumption.

It is important to remember that, before consuming St. John’s Wort, the ideal is to seek medical advice, especially if the use of tea is associated with other medications.