The Best Before Bed Herbal Teas

There are always some nights when falling asleep is harder than it should be. You’re comfy in bed, but your brain decides it’s the perfect time to replay all of the worst bits of your day in a reels-type fashion. Fun, eh? 

Here’s where herbal tea can really shine. A warm mug of something soothing before bed may be just the thing to help you unwind and gently convince your brain to power down for the night. Here at Bensons for beds, we’re all about making bedtime more blissful – and a warm mug of herbal tea is a great place to start. 

Here are some of the best herbal teas to sip before snuggling down under the duvet. 

1. Chamomile – a classic choice at bedtime 

Chamomile is by far one of the most popular bedtime teas. It’s been used for centuries to help with relaxation, anxiety, and sleep – and that’s not without good reason. It’s super gentle and has natural calming properties that make it a go-to if your find yourself feeling a bit wired before bed. 

Tastes like: Light, floral, and slightly sweet. Think sleepy garden vibes. 

2. Peppermint – helps to soothe your digestive system 

Not just for fresh breath, peppermint tea is brilliant after dinner because it helps with digestion. If a full stomach is keeping you from sleeping, this refreshingly minty brew can help things settle down so you can get comfy and drift off. 

Tastes like: Cool, refreshing, with a little zing – but still caffeine-free. 

3. Lavender – soothing and sensual like a hug in a mug 

Lavender is well known for its calming scent. But, did you know that it also makes a lovely before bed tea too? Lavender tea can help reduce anxiety and promote deeper sleep – plus, it smells dreamy.  

Tastes like: Lightly floral and a little earthy. Best served with a big exhale. 

4. Lemon balm – helps to lift your mood if you’re feeling low 

Lemon balm is a member of the mint family, but it has a bit of lemony twist. It’s known for reducing stress and helping your mind unwind after a long day. A mug of lemon balm herbal tea is perfect if you find that your brain is doing somersaults at bedtime. 

Tastes like: Mild citrus with a herbal edge – super refreshing. 

5. Valerian root – a strong mug of herbal tea 

Valerian root could be nature’s answer to counting sheep. It’s quite a bit stronger than most herbal teas and is often used to treat insomnia and anxiety. Be warned – Valerian root tea is a bit pongy (cards on the table: some people even say it smells like feet), but it does work for lots of people. 

Tastes like: Earthy and a bit strong. This one’s more about the effect than the flavour. 

6. Sleepy blends – for anyone who can’t decide 

Can’t choose? Go for a pre-mixed bedtime blend. Loads of brands now offer “sleep” teas that combine the scents and calming effects of chamomile, lavender, lemon balm, and more. They’re often balanced for flavour and effect – perfect if you’re easing into the herbal tea life. 

Before bed herbal tea: a few quick tips: 

• No caffeine – Obvious, but worth saying. Stick to herbal teas at night. 

• Don’t drink too late – Unless you want a 3am bathroom trip. 

• Make it a ritual – Boil the kettle, switch off your phone, breathe in the steam, and sip slowly. Let it be your signal to slow down. 

Herbal tea before bed: final thoughts 

At Bensons for Beds, we believe bedtime should feel like a treat – not a chore. Whether it’s a soft-as-a-cloud mattress or a warm mug of something calming, it’s the little things that make all the difference. 

So next time you’re struggling to sleep, why not give one of these popular bedtime herbal teas a try and see if it’s the component your bedtime routine’s been missing? 

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