When it comes to supporting your body in a natural, nourishing way, herbal teas and adaptogens are two powerful tools with a long history in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine. From calming the nervous system to supporting healthy hormone function and promoting heart health, these plant-based remedies can be a gentle yet effective addition to your daily routine. They are not a replacement for fundamental habits like healthy eating, regular movement, sleep, and stress management, but they can be a gentle, nourishing complement to your daily routine.

What are herbal teas?

Herbal teas are beverages made from the flowers, bark, leaves, or roots of a plant. Unlike traditional black or green teas (which come from the Camellia sinensis plant and typically contain caffeine), herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free. This makes them a soothing option for those looking for caffeine alternatives or anyone who wants to enjoy a warm, nourishing beverage without the jitters.

What are adaptogens?

Adaptogens are a special class of herbs that have been used in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries. They help the body adapt to stress by supporting the adrenal glands and regulating the body’s stress response.

Some adaptogens offer more immediate effects, while others require consistent, long-term use to notice benefits. Important note: if you’re currently taking medication, it’s best to check with your doctor before adding adaptogens to your routine.

Herbal Teas & Adaptogens for Stress Relief

Herbs

• Chamomile – a soothing herb that can be used to promote relaxation and a good night’s sleep, due to being rich in flavonoids.
• Lavender – known for its calming properties, lavender can help ease anxiety and tension.
  
• Lemon Balm – contains compounds that soothe stress and also support healthy sleep.
  
  

Adaptogens

• Ashwagandha – has been used in India for thousands of years to reduce stress and anxiety.
  

• Rhodiola – promotes a calm emotional state, and can support mental performance, hormone regulation, and immunity.
  
• Reishi Mushroom – can help calm the nervous system and is great to take before bed. It can also boost the immune system!

Impacts on Hormones

Balanced hormones are essential for energy, mood, and overall well-being. These herbs and adaptogens can be supportive tools alongside nutrient-rich foods for hormone health.

Herbs

• Turmeric (Curcumin) – supports PMS mood relief and physical symptoms.
  
• Saffron – may reduce PMS symptoms.
  
• Ginger Root and Cinnamon Bark – both of these herbs support menstrual comfort by easing cramps and heavy bleeding. 

Adaptogens

• Shatavari – Shatavari is known as the “queen of herbs” in Ayurvedic medicine as it supports hormone balance and emotional symptoms in PMS and menopause with its nourishing and calming properties.
  
• Motherwort – supports mood, sleep, and hot flash relief.
  
• Chasteberry (often called vitex) – can be considered as nature’s hormonal balancer and is great for women at any stage in life. It can support PMS, estrogen and progesterone balance, mood, and menstrual cycle regulation.
  
• Maca – boosts libido, improves vitality, and supports balance of cortisol and female sex hormones.

Impacts on Heart Health

Herbs

• Garlic –  often used for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disorders with fresh or dried cloves. Helps regulate cholesterol and blood pressure while providing antioxidants that combat inflammation. 

Adaptogens

• Reishi Mushroom – beyond its calming benefits, reishi may help lower cholesterol, regulate blood pressure, and reduce inflammation.

Where to Find Herbal Teas & Adaptogens

If you’re ready to start exploring herbal teas and adaptogens, there are a few great brands that provide high-quality blends and herbs:

• Mountain Rose Herbs – A trusted source for high-quality, organic bulk herbs, teas, and wellness blends.
  
  
• Yogi – A widely available brand known for its flavorful, functional teas that blend herbs with spices.
  
  
• Traditional Medicinals – A herbal tea company that emphasizes wellness and traditional plant medicine. Their teas are formulated by herbalists, often with certified organic and non-GMO ingredients.
  
  
• Rasa – Tasty organic coffee alternatives made with herbs, adaptogens, and mushrooms. Use code RASARX258529 for 20% off!

You can also check out our Fullscript account, where we’ve curated some excellent options and trusted blends.

How to Incorporate Herbal Teas & Adaptogens Into Your Routine

One simple way to bring herbal teas and adaptogens into your day is through morning rituals. Starting your day with a brewed cup of energizing herbal tea or a golden maca latte can set the nourishing tone for the day ahead.

In the evening, these herbs can help you wind down. Sipping chamomile, lavender, or lemon balm tea while reading, journaling, or watching the sunset creates a calming ritual that signals your body it’s time to relax.

For daily support, adaptogens can be incorporated in supplement, tincture, or tea form. Most can be safely taken for up to 12 weeks, offering gentle support for stress resilience, mental clarity, and overall vitality. 

Even simple changes, like enjoying iced herbal teas as a refreshing, caffeine-free beverage throughout the day, can provide small moments of nourishment and mindfulness.

Herbal teas and adaptogens offer a gentle way to nurture your body, calm your mind, and support long-term wellness. Whether your focus is stress relief, supporting natural hormone rhythms, or heart health, these plant-based tools can become comforting rituals that make your daily routine feel more grounded, balanced, and intentional.