“Peter was not very well during the evening. His mother put him to bed, and made some chamomile tea: 'One table-spoonful to be taken at bedtime.'”
-from The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter
We have all been there. Some nights, despite our best efforts of bargaining and cajoling, sleep remains elusive. What to do? Try a cup of herbal tea.
Herbs have been used to promote sleep for thousands of years across many cultures. Over 3,000 years ago, the practice was prevalent in traditional Chinese medicine as well as Ayurveda, an ancient healing system from the Indian subcontinent. By the Middle Ages, 500 to 1500 AD, various herbs, such as chamomile and hops, were also popular for their sleep-inducing qualities. The Renaissance period, spanning from the 14th to the 17th century, saw an increase in the documentation of the use of these herbal remedies.
One of the oldest and most popular herbal remedies for relaxation and sleep remains a household name today: chamomile. The name "chamomile" comes from the Greek word, khamaimēlon, meaning "earth-apple," which refers to its fresh, apple-like scent. Ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians used dried chamomile flowers and their essential oils medicinally. Upton Tea Imports offers our BH51: Chamomile Organic: beautiful dried flowers with a high concentration of flavor oils, which yield a rich, deep-yellow cup, buttery smooth and floral sweet. We also offer chamomile selections blended with other soothing, fragrant herbs. Our BH103: Cinnamon Apple Chamomile Herbal Blend, with the comforting aroma and flavor of a cinnamon apple that complements the dreamy smoothness of chamomile flowers, is sure to warm and comfort. Our NH75: Chamillo Blend is an elixir of chamomile, rose hips, orange peels, lemongrass, hibiscus, and spearmint, a balm to sooth and clear the mind for rest. Our NH44: Berry Herb Blend is a naturally flavored herbal blend that harmonizes the flavors of mint, lemongrass, ginger, chamomile, hibiscus, licorice, and blackcurrants, a somnolent symphony to serenade you to sleep.
Four other herbs that join chamomile among the list of those earliest recorded remedies used to offer calm and relaxation before sleep are: lemon balm, lavender, valerian, and hops. Our BH101: Apple Mint Valerian combines all four of these herbs in a carefully crafted blend. With an inviting, sweet herbaceous aroma and a flavor that hints of apple, peach, and mint, this soporific cuppa is a standout.
While not as well documented, lemongrass has also been known to have calming effects. It steeps a soothing herbal tonic that may enhance relaxation and prepare the body for sleep.*
Our BH65: Lemon Grass, Coarse Cut has a golden-yellow liquor with brisk lemon flavor and aroma. Our BH18: Lemon-Ginger Blend Organic is the perfect marriage of lemon and ginger, which creates a spicy, warming cup.
Another caffeine-free herb that is quickly gaining in popularity steeped for an evening cuppa is South African Rooibos, a plant that is grown in the Cederburg region of the Western Cape province, its leaves dried and processed like tea. It has a beneficial trace mineral content, including magnesium, calcium, and potassium, which are helpful in promoting relaxation.* Flavonoid components found in rooibos, aspalathin and nothofagin, may also aid in reducing stress and anxiety.* Research suggests that vanilla can also help promote a sense of relaxation.* With its harmonious blend of South African Rooibos and Bourbon vanilla bits, our BA38: Vanilla Rooibos Organic, is sure to soothe. Our delicious BA22: Apricot Honey Rooibos Organic features prominent notes of honey-dipped apricot, which lend a rich ambrosial aroma and flavor. Hints of vanilla, candied citrus, and caramel create a delightfully complex, languorous cup.
The next time you are seeking to knit up a cozy sleeve of care, reach for any one of these tried-and-true classics. Keep sipping and enjoy!
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.