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Drinks that help with anxiety


7 Everyday Tonics that Help Soothe Stress and Anxiety

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We’ve all been there — feeling like there’s just some pep missing in our step. Thankfully, there’s a natural (and tasty!) solution in your pantry.

We’re big fans of brewing up healthy concoctions, whether it’s immune-boosting mushroom “coffee” or insomnia-fighting bedtime milk.

So instead of reaching for that third cup of coffee for an energy boost or a nightcap to de-stress, we rounded up seven natural tonics filled with everyday ingredients that are known as powerful remedies for fighting fatigue, anxiety, and stress. Think: apple cider vinegar, matcha, ginger, and turmeric to name a few.

Keep reading to discover your new favorite flavorful drink.

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Ginger has benefits beyond flavoring your favorite stir-fry recipe or easing an upset stomach. This powerhouse plant contains 14 unique bioactive compounds and antioxidant properties. These compounds have been found to sharpen cognitive function in middle-aged women and may even protect the brain, per a study in rats, against oxidative stress-related damage.

Animal studies have also indicated that ginger can influence serotonin levels and may treat and reduce anxiety as successfully as benzodiazepine drugs.

Ginger benefits:

  • improved brain function
  • antioxidant support
  • treatment for stress

Try it: Brew this healthy ginger tonic (hot or cold) for a dose of powerful antioxidants. Fresh ginger is the way to go, but if you’re planning on supplementing, recommended doses vary.

Possible side effects

Ginger doesn’t have many serious side effects. Just make sure you’re not overdosing (more than 4 grams) as it could irritate your stomach.

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Maca root is increasingly popular lately — and for good reason. This native Peruvian plant has been shown to increase sexual desire in men (and possibly sexual function, too). It’s also shown promising results for boosting exercise performance in male cyclists.

This hormone balancer is also a strong supporter against stress. Maca’s plant compounds (called flavonoids) may promote a positive mood and reduce blood pressure and depression (as shown in postmenopausal women).

Maca benefits:

  • increased energy
  • balanced mood
  • reduced blood pressure and depression

Try it: Simply mix maca powder into your daily smoothie, cup of coffee, or hot cocoa (here’s a tasty recipe!). You can also try this Good Energy Drink featuring the root. To truly see an effect, you may need to drink about 3.3 grams every day for 8 to 14 weeks.

Possible side effects

Maca is generally safe for most people unless you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a thyroid problem.

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Sip matcha for a clean, jitter-free buzz. Matcha contains flavonoids and L-theanine, which is historically known for its relaxing effects. L-theanine increases the brain’s alpha frequency band, relaxing the mind without causing drowsiness.

Combined with caffeine, L-theanine may have positive effects on mood and cognition. Considering matcha is also packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and nutrients, it can be a powerful tonic for beating fatigue and boosting your overall health.

Matcha benefits:

  • positive effects on mood
  • promotes relaxation
  • provides sustained energy

Try it: Brew a cup of matcha tea with convenient tea bags or whip up this Magic Matcha Tonic using matcha powder. The caffeine in matcha is fairly strong! You may be able to feel the effects within the hour.

Possible side effects

Just as you can be over-caffeinated on coffee, it’s possible to drink too much matcha. While it may be healthier, stick to just one or two cups a day.

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Reishi mushrooms, nicknamed “nature’s Xanax,” are a great natural way to de-stress. This mushroom contains the compound triterpene, which is known for its calming properties. It also possesses anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and antidepressant qualities.

This magic mushroom may also promote better sleep (as shown in studies on rats), leaving you more rested and focused throughout your day.

Reishi benefits:

  • promotes more restful sleep
  • has antidepressant and anti-anxiety properties
  • possesses powerful calming agents

Try it: Use a spoonful of reishi powder to make a warm, healing tonic or tea.

Possible side effects

While research around the benefits of reishi’s is still lacking, what’s available shows that they may be associated with liver damage. Other than that, the side effects are minor (such as an upset stomach). Talk to your doctor if you’re considering supplementing with these mushrooms as people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, those with a blood problem, or anyone needing surgery should avoid it.

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Apple cider vinegar has uses beyond that tasty vinaigrette. This vinegar can have a direct impact on your blood sugar levels, helping you maintain even energy and preventing fatigue. Apple cider vinegar also contains essential minerals like potassium, which has a direct correlation on our energy levels.

Apple cider vinegar benefits:

  • controls blood sugar
  • maintains even energy levels
  • may help promote overall health

Try it: Simply mix apple cider vinegar into warm or cold water or try making this Apple Cider Vinegar Tea Tonic. After drinking 1 gram, you may feel the effects within 95 minutes.

Possible side effects

Large doses of apple cider vinegar may cause some side effects, including digestive issues, damaged tooth enamel, and throat burns. It may also interact with your medications, so talk to your doctor if you’re planning to drink it regularly.

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Turmeric lattes are all over the internet, but are they backed by science or just trendy? We’re happy to report that turmeric stands up to its popularity — especially in terms of mental health.

Curcumin, the bioactive compound found in turmeric, has been linked to treating anxiety, depression, and more — possibly due to it boosting serotonin and dopamine levels. Research has suggested that it may actually be just as effective as Prozac with far fewer side effects.

Turmeric benefits:

  • boosts serotonin levels
  • can help relieve anxiety and depression
  • may be just as effective as antidepressants

Try it: Try this refreshing anti-inflammatory Turmeric Tonic for something a little different. The results may not be immediate, but if you drink it 1000 milligrams daily for six weeks, you may start feeling a difference then.

Possible side effects

For the most part, turmeric is safe to eat. But you may want to avoid too much of it and make sure you’re getting it from a trusted source. High doses of turmeric may cause kidney stones, and untrustworthy sources tend to have fillers.

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If you’re not familiar with this adaptogen, it’s a good time to learn. Adaptogens are naturally occuring substances that help our bodies deal with and adapt to stress.

Ashwagandha in particular is a stress-fighting superstar. This adaptogen has been shown to aid in anxiety relief, fight fatigue, and reduce cortisol levels.

Ashwagandha benefits:

  • reduces body’s stress hormone
  • relieves anxiety
  • prevents stress-related fatigue

Try it: Sip this Ashwagandha Tonic to sleep sound and melt stress. It may take drinking two cups a day (with 150 milligrams of ashwagandha) for a month before you feel the effects.

Possible side effects

There aren’t enough studies to say exactly what the side effects of this herb are, but those who are pregnant will want to avoid it, as it can cause early delivery. Another risk of taking ashwagandha is the source. Untrustworthy sources tend to have harmful additives.

As always, check in with your doctor first before adding anything to your everyday routine. While most of these herbs, spices, and teas are safe to consume, drinking too much in a day may be harmful.

So, with all of these amazing stress-fighting tonics to choose from, which one are you most excited to try first?

Tiffany La Forge is a professional chef, recipe developer, and food writer who runs the blog Parsnips and Pastries. Her blog focuses on real food for a balanced life, seasonal recipes, and approachable health advice. When she’s not in the kitchen, Tiffany enjoys yoga, hiking, traveling, organic gardening, and hanging out with her corgi, Cocoa. Visit her at her blog or on Instagram.

Tasty Drinks to Calm Anxiety and Help You Relax

When you get to the end of a long day, sometimes it helps to sip on a relaxing drink. Which drinks can do the job best? That’s up to you to decide. Listed below are several popular beverages used to soothe nerves. Some you’ve heard of, but others may be new to you. Learn more below and see which calming drink land at the top of your list.

Does alcohol help calm anxiety?

Alcohol pulls a bait-and-switch on your body, so be careful about using it to relax. Chemically speaking, alcohol has a depressant effect on your body. It slows things down and gives you a fuzzy buzzed feeling.

Drinking alcohol stimulates the release of dopamine in your bloodstream, giving you a boost of the “feel-good” chemicals in your body. When the alcohol is processed and is flushed out of your body, the dopamine boost crashes out. Your body's out of whack, leaving you feeling jittery and anxious.

Alcohol itself also has properties that interfere with neurotransmitters and your body’s relaxation response. You may not notice much if you have one moderately sized beverage. But if you have several, you can get a hangover with a side of anxiety.

Stimulants like coffee or energy drinks

Caffeine and energy drinks are often used to make up for lost sleep, better focus, or simply out of habit. Unfortunately, the stimulation your nervous system gets from these drinks can also amp up your anxiety. Depending on the amount you drink and your body’s tolerance, you may notice yourself feeling jittery or restless.

You may also feel like the brain has been turned up a notch or two in your brain. For a person trying to calm feelings of anxiety, this all goes in the wrong direction. Even if you have a small amount, late-day caffeine can disrupt your sleep. Poor sleep can put you at the beginning of this vicious cycle, looking for easy ways to stay awake.

Drinks to calm and relax you

These drinks all have properties or substances that promote relaxation. You’ll find beverages covering a wide spectrum of temperatures, textures, and flavors.

Reishi mushroom tea or elixir

Triterpenes are the active substances in reishi mushrooms, and they show anti-anxiety effects in animals. These are being explored as a treatment for PTSD and anxiety. You can blend the mushroom powder into a warm tea-like drink or an elixir mixed with other botanicals.

Matcha and green tea

Matcha is made from the same plant as regular green tea, but each is processed differently. Both have L-theanine with calming properties. Green tea is often in the form of crushed leaves and is steeped like traditional tea. Matcha is the entire tea leaf ground into a fine powder. It has a rich, buttery flavor when mixed as a drink. And because you consume all parts of the leaf, you get the benefits of every nutrient.

Smoothies

No smoothie is going to be an anti-anxiety treatment on its own. But when your body is well-nourished with vitamins and minerals, it’s better equipped to handle the ups and downs of your day. Smoothies are a delicious and fun way to get more power-packed foods in your diet, too. Try making smoothies including more of these nutrient-dense foods:

  • Fruits: Plums, apples, sweet cherries, avocado
  • Veggies: Kale, spinach, other leafy greens
  • Berries: Blackberries, strawberries, cranberries, raspberries, blueberries
  • Nuts: Almonds (almond milk), walnuts, pecans

Ashwagandha

This substance originates from the ginseng family and may improve symptoms of stress and anxiety. Ashwagandha powder can be mixed with other ingredients into lattes, tonics, and other warm, comforting drinks.

Warm milk

Drinking warm milk will help soothe and relax you for a few reasons.

  • It contains tryptophan, the enzyme with relaxation properties also famously present in turkey meat.
  • The warmth of your beverage is likely to feel soft and creamy as you drink it.
  • It's likely to add nostalgic comfort if you associate it with comforting memories from childhood.

Magnesium blend tea

Getting a sufficient amount of magnesium in your diet may help you get better sleep, prevent headaches, and avoid fatigue. Get your magnesium boost by drinking tea infused with the nutrient.

Decaffeinated herbal tea

Relaxing with a cup of tea has been a time-honored tradition for generations. While some people enjoy decaffeinated versions of black and green tea, herbal teas are naturally decaffeinated. Here are a few ways herbal tea can help you relax:

  • It’s an aromatherapy experience with delicate scents and flavors.
  • You’ve created a calming ritual with your tea.
  • Herbs like chamomile, lavender, lemon balm, and peppermint are known to have some relaxation-inducing properties.

Water

Ever wonder why it feels so good to drink a nice, cool glass of water when you’re really thirsty? Your brain trains you to enjoy the experience, so you'll want to look for more the next time. Part of feeling thirsty is that you are rewarded with a release of dopamine when you drink enough water to feel refreshed and satisfied. Dopamine is one of the body chemicals that triggers feelings of relaxation and contentment.

Valerian root tea

Valerian root is often used as a sleep aid in herbal medicine, so drinking it as a tea before bed could help you fall asleep faster. There are some cautions about using valerian root long-term, but if used occasionally, it appears to have few side effects, if any.

Black tea

Drinking black tea is one way to get a caffeine boost during the day. But some properties of black tea can also relax and calm you. The amino acid L-theanine is known to have a calming effect, especially when paired with caffeine. Experts aren’t entirely sure how this works, but caffeine, L-theanine, and the antioxidant epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) all work together for this effect. Plus, like herbal tea, the aroma and warmth of black tea can be psychologically soothing.

One caution about drinking beverages close to bedtime

If you have a sensitive bladder, you may create the need to get up and use the bathroom in the middle of the night. So be aware of how your body processes liquids, or you may unintentionally add sleep deprivation and anxiety to your day.

A calming drink for daily relaxation

Is your new go-to calming beverage in the list above? You’ll never know unless you try a few. Finding a favorite can take a little trial and error, and these choices cover a wide range of flavors. Keep in mind that these drinks aren’t meant to be a complete solution for stress or anxiety. But you can enjoy them as part of your daily routine or a calming ritual at the end of the day. Bottoms up!

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Herbal teas to reduce stress

Hot tea soothes and reduces stress, energizing for the whole day. Sometimes stress accompanied by anxiety can take a toll on physical and mental health. Consider herbal teas that can help relieve stress and anxiety.

Melissa tea

Melissa officinalis belongs to the mint family. The herb is widely used to treat anxiety, depression, and insomnia for its anti-stress and anxiolytic properties. Melissa lemon improves cognitive function, reduces stress and anxiety. nine0003

How to cook:

- add a tablespoon of dry lemon balm leaves to a glass of boiling water;

- boil for a few minutes, let stand for 5 minutes;

- strain and drink.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile is known for its many health benefits. It has calming properties, can significantly reduce stress, anxiety and depression, and treats insomnia.

Preparation:

- add 2 tablespoons of dried chamomile flowers to a glass of boiling water; nine0003

- infuse for 5 minutes, then strain and drink.

Peppermint Tea

Peppermint Tea is another effective herbal tea for relieving stress and anxiety. This is due to the menthol extract in mint working as a muscle relaxant that reduces stress and anxiety and treats insomnia.

How to prepare:

- boil water and add a mint tea bag to a cup;

- let steep for 3-4 minutes, then drink.

Lavender tea

Lavender has a mood stabilizing and sedative effect, as well as other health benefits such as reducing anxiety and treating insomnia. Preparation of tea:

- boil a glass of water, add 4 teaspoons of fresh lavender buds to the water;

- let steep for 10 minutes, then drink the tea.

Green Tea

Green Tea contains a higher concentration of an amino acid called L-theanine, which increases calming neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which help reduce stress and anxiety. A study found that green tea can significantly reduce stress and anxiety levels. nine0003

How to prepare:

- add a tablespoon of green tea leaves to a glass of boiling water;

- brew for 15 minutes;

- strain and drink.

Basil tea

Basil is a plant with strong medicinal properties used to treat various diseases. Drinking basil tea reduces symptoms of anxiety and stress due to its anti-stress and neuroprotective activity.

How to prepare:

- boil a glass of water, add basil leaves;

- brew for 10 minutes, then strain;

- drink tea warm.

Turmeric Tea

Turmeric contains an active compound called curcumin, which has the ability to relieve chronic stress and anxiety by stimulating the release of two neurotransmitters, dopamine and serotonin.

Making tea:

- boil 4 cups of water, add 1-2 tsp. turmeric powder; nine0003

- simmer for 10 minutes;

- strain and drink.

Rose Tea

Roses have an enchanting floral scent that helps to relax the nerves, thereby reducing stress and anxiety.

How to prepare:

- select fresh rose petals;

- boil 3 cups of water, add some fresh rose petals;

- brew for 5 minutes, then strain;

- add honey for flavor and drink. nine0003

Rosemary tea

Rosemary is a fragrant herb with many medicinal properties. It can help improve cognitive function by activating the parts of the brain that are responsible for stress and anxiety, thereby boosting your mood.

Preparing tea:

- boil water in a saucepan, add a teaspoon of rosemary leaves;

- let the tea brew for 5-10 minutes;

- strain and drink.

Fennel tea

Fennel is a medicinal plant with a range of health benefits. Not only is it widely used as a spice in various dishes, but it also relieves stress and anxiety. Fennel is effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression in postmenopausal women.

Preparation:

- add tsp. fennel seeds;

- brew for 5-10 minutes;

- strain and drink.

Linden tea

Linden blossom tea is another great stress and anxiety reliever. This flower has sedative properties that can help bring relief from stress and anxiety.

Preparation:

- add 2-3 teaspoons of linden flowers to a glass of hot water, leave for 15 minutes;

- strain and drink.

Valerian Root Tea

Valerian Root contains isovaleric acid, valerenic acid and antioxidants that reduce anxiety and promote better sleep. Drinking valerian root tea will help bring a sense of relaxation and calmness. nine0003

Preparation of tea:

- add 2-3 g of valerian root to a glass of hot water;

- let it brew for 10-15 minutes;

- strain and drink.

Licorice root tea

Licorice root is mainly used as a sweetener in drinks and candies. It is known for various health benefits, including reduced stress and anxiety. Licorice root enhances feel-good neurotransmitters, which reduces anxiety. nine0003

How to cook:

- add a glass of water to a saucepan and bring to a boil;

- add a tablespoon of licorice root powder and stir;

- leave to brew for 20 minutes;

- strain and drink.

Chrysanthemum tea

Chrysanthemum reduces symptoms of anxiety. It has a cooling and calming effect on the mind and body, which can help relieve anxiety.
How to make tea:

- boil water, add a few chrysanthemum flowers to it; nine0003

- let it brew for 2-4 minutes.

Sage Tea

Sage has a rich taste, aroma and antioxidants that bring a feeling of relaxation and reduce anxiety. It relaxes muscles and fights stress.
Method of preparation:

- add 1 tbsp. l. dry sage leaves;

- let it brew for a few minutes;

- strain and drink.

Jasmine tea

Jasmine flowers have a relaxing fragrance. The anti-stress and sedative properties of jasmine have the ability to reduce anxiety symptoms and relieve stress. nine0159 How to cook:

- add 1-2 tsp to a glass of water. jasmine flowers;

- brew for 5-10 minutes;

- strain and drink.

Most herbal teas should be consumed in small doses. Check with your doctor before using them as they can have serious side effects.

9 foods that reduce stress and anxiety

September 5, 2022 Health

Try the antidepressants generously provided by nature. nine0003

You can listen to the article. If it's more convenient for you, turn on the podcast.

1. Salmon

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Salmon contains many nutrients that promote brain health. These are vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids.

Omega-3s, EPA and DHA help the body produce the hormones dopamine and serotonin, which have a calming and relaxing effect. And the absorption of vitamin D avoids neurocognitive dysfunction, promotes brain health, and also promotes calm. nine0003

In one experiment, researchers from the University of Bergen, Norway found that people who ate Atlantic salmon three times a week for five months experienced less stress than those who ate chicken, pork, or beef. In addition, their heart rate and heart rate variability improved.

2. Chamomile

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Traditionally, chamomile tea is believed to help calm the nerves, and this is the case when folk wisdom is confirmed by science. Chamomile is high in antioxidants, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and may reduce the risk of anxiety. nine0003

Studies show that chamomile can help relieve anxiety, even for people diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder. And one experiment showed that subjects who consumed chamomile extract for eight weeks experienced a reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety.

3. Chocolate

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The fact that chocolate reduces stress and in general is one concentrated “happiness hormone” is known to everyone. It increases the level of serotonin, which reduces stress and anxiety. In addition, dark chocolate contains flavanols, which improve brain function, help it adapt to stressful situations and relieve anxiety. nine0003

It is traditionally believed that bitter tiles are the most useful. But studies show that the milk version is more effective in reducing anxiety. So, if you do not like bitterness, there is no point in forcing yourself to eat the “right” chocolate. However, remember that this is a very high-calorie product and it is better not to abuse it.

4. Brazil nuts

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Brazil nuts, the fruit of a tree called Bertoletia, contain a lot of vitamin E, low levels of which lead to depression. nine0003

They also have a high selenium content. This substance has antioxidant properties and has a good effect on mood. However, too much selenium should not be consumed. The recommended daily allowance for adults is 400 micrograms. So don't eat more than three or four Brazil nuts a day.

5. Turmeric

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Turmeric is a spice that contains a compound called curcumin. It is very beneficial for promoting brain health and preventing anxiety disorders. Curcumin also has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which are also good for brain cells. nine0003

In addition, the use of oriental spice reduces the body's production of inflammatory markers such as cytokines, which are responsible for the increase in anxiety.

6. Bananas

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Bananas contain large amounts of tryptophan, an amino acid involved in the production of serotonin in the body. This means that they contribute to relaxation and anxiety relief. In addition, bananas are full of magnesium and potassium, the lack of which leads to stress. nine0003

7. Eggs

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Eggs are an excellent source of vitamin D, the deficiency of which leads to depression and anxiety. The use of this product improves well-being and mood. In addition, eggs contain tryptophan, which, as already mentioned, is involved in the production of serotonin.

8. Yogurt

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Probiotics and other beneficial bacteria found in yogurt have a beneficial effect on mental health. Studies show that products with these components suppress free radicals and neurotoxins, helping to protect the nervous tissue of the brain. nine0003

Anxiety sufferers who consume daily probiotic yogurt have been experimentally shown to cope with stress more easily than those who consume the non-probiotic version. A product with beneficial bacteria improves the functioning of the areas of the brain that control emotions and sensations.

Keep in mind that not all types of yogurt are equally effective in reducing stress.

Learn more