Chamomile and Lavender Tea Benefits

When two calming herbs combine, the result can only be a relaxing, well-balanced cup of tea. But, can it help you sleep?

While the chamomile tea has been around for centuries, lavender is still mostly appreciated for aromatherapy and keeping the moths away. If you never tried a lavender tea before, you may expect a strong overwhelming taste. But lavender is delicate, lightly sweet and relaxing. It blends well with sweet notes of chamomile. Add a teaspoon of honey, and you will get a delicious tea that may provide numerous health benefits.

Does lavender and chamomile help you sleep?

In traditional medicine, chamomile has been used for its calming and soothing properties for thousands of years. Studies showed that drinking chamomile tea may improve the sleep quality[1] and depression[2]. Today, chamomile is still one of the most popular tea in the world. It’s assumed that almost 1 million cups of chamomile tea are made and drank around the world every day[3].

Lavender, on the other hand, is not as often used for drinking. However, the effect of lavender essential oils on the brain has been widely researched. Studies suggest it may help with calming the body and mind, help with anxiety, positively influence the mood, help with depression, act as a sedative and reduce the pain[4].

Mixing these two herbs into one blend could offer you benefits of both plants and help fall asleep more easily. Chamomile and lavender tea is caffeine free and tastes delicious. Still, lavender with chamomile blend is not among the strongest sleepytime teas in the world, and may be a great choice for a relaxing tea time at any time of the day. The sedative effect of both herbs may be just enough to make you feel relaxed in a stressed situation.

Interestingly, both of these plants showed a better short-term than long-term effect and proved to be safe for many age groups. This could potentially make chamomile and lavender tea a good choice for a sleeping aid for anyone that is not suffering from chronic sleeping problems.

Chamomile Lavender herbal tea blend

What are the benefits of drinking lavender tea?

Drinking lavender tea may provide multiple benefits, including boosting immune system, benefiting the nervous system, relaxing muscles, de-stressing and helping against inflammations.

1. Antiviral properties

Studies showed that both chamomile and lavender may have an antiviral activity[5].

2. Antioxidant activity

Both chamomile and lavender have anti oxidative properties and may help boost the immune system[6]. Lavender, just like real teas (black and green tea), contains flavonoids and tannins. Anthocyanins are present too. They are the pigments that give purple color to fruits and vegetables such as acai berries or purple tea. However, studies showed that in lavender, antioxidant activity mostly comes from essential oils and phenolic compounds[7].

3. Anti inflammatory properties

When treating inflammation, chamomile is one of the best home remedies in the world. Extensive research supports its use for treating different infammations[8]. Studies showed that lavender essential oil has an anti inflammatory property too.[9] The highest concentration of essential oils is found in fully opened flowers.

4. Relaxing muscles and brain

Lavender may help relax muscles and act as a sedative[10]. Studies showed that Lavandula angustifolia, or the English lavender, may be more beneficial than other types. This type is often used for cooking and drinking.

5. Soothing the stomach

Both chamomile and lavender may potentially help with stomach problems and aid in digestion. Research showed that chamomile may help relax the stomach muscles.[11] Although there is not enough scientific data to show the benefits of lavender on digestive problems, because of its relaxing and anti inflammatory properties it has been traditionally used to treat the upset stomach.

6. Benefits for the skin

Used topically, chamomile and lavender are one of the best herbs for skin problems. The calming effect of chamomile on the skin is known worldwide. Traditionally it has been used for soothing and softening the skin, treating wounds and irritations and other problems. Studies showed that topical use may be helpful for treating sczema[12]. Lavender may help with treating acne and promoting hair growth. Tea might help with signs of aging and keeping the skin healthy by fighting free radicals[13].

Tips for brewing and drinking lavender and chamomile tea

When brewing chamomile and lavender tea, unless you bought a pre-made blend, keep in mind the following:

Not all lavender flowers are the same. When brewing, keep in mind that adding too much or too little will influence both the effect and flavor.
Choose high quality herbs and blends. Always store the tea properly, keep it away from direct sunlight, moisture, mold or heat.
Lavender may become bitter if over-brewed. Keep brewing time no longer than 5 minutes. Add a teaspoon of honey if your tea is too strong.
Try adding other herbs with de-stressing and calming properties, for example lemon balm.
Always use fresh spring water when brewing any tea.
Don’t drink too much tea before bed. Ideally, drink it at least 30-60 minutes before going to sleep. Choose smaller cup because having too much liquid may interfere with your sleep.
If you are drinking some herbal tea for the first time and suffering from any serious disease, take medication or are allergic to some ingredients, it’s best to consult with your doctor or a pharmacist. Although chamomile and lavender tea are likely safe and drank by millions of people around the world, there is always a possibility of side effects.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It’s not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Every person is different and may react to different herbs and teas differently. Never use teas or herbs to treat serious medical conditions on your own. Always seek professional medical advice before choosing home remedies.