Food, Home and Style

Your Happy Place: 5 Soothing Herbal Teas

Stress-reducing ideas for recessionary times.

Got a case of nerves? Butterflies in your stomach? This economy is making us all feel like nervous Nellies from time to time. Here are five soothing herbal teas that will leave you feeling calm and centered. Herbal teas are an inexpesive remedy for the nerves, but the act of preparing them and sipping them slowly is, in itself, a soothing activity.

Lavender:
My all time favorite. Once, I visited a lavender farm once in Maui, and the ensuing bliss stayed with me for weeks. Lavender tea is known for calming the nerves and promoting sleep. It’s also reputed to have anti-depressant properties. Infuse a handful of dried lavender flower in a pot of boiling water to make tea. Let the tea steep for about 7 to 10 minutes.

Chamomile:
This is the perfect tea to drink before bedtime. Chamomile is a medicinal wonder that’s calming to the nerves, so it’s great for excitable types. It also soothes muscle cramps and spasms, as well as stomach cramps. People suffering from anxiety and panic attacks can find relief by drinking chamomile tea. Use dried flower heads as an infusion – about two or three teaspoons per cup. You can add a little honey to sweeten.

Catnip:
Surprise! Catnip isn’t just for your kitty. It has a sedative effect on humans, too (but you probably won’t want to roll on the floor). Catnip tea is said to reduce migraine headaches and ease insomnia. Steep dried catnip for about 10 minutes in hot water.

Peppermint:
A refreshing pick-me-up in the afternoon, peppermint tea is good for nausea and stomach aches. It also helps control aches and chronic pain, and is said to combat stress. Use 1-2 tablespoons dried or 3-4 tablespoons fresh peppermint leaves per cup. If you use fresh leaves, you can bruise them a little first to release the flavor.

Tags: stress, tea, Your Happy Place