Here at eve hq, we love a wind-down routine. Pyjamas on, phone off, duvet fluffed just right – it’s the stuff sweet dreams are made of. But if your brain’s still doing laps when your body’s begging for sleep, it might be time to bring in a secret weapon: a warm, sleepytime brew.
Herbal teas are the nighttime MVPs. No caffeine, no jitters – just a cosy mug of calm to help nudge you into snooze mode. And the best bit? You can make them yourself.
Here are five simple, soothing herbal tea recipes to sip before bed. No cauldrons or wizardry required.
1. chamomile & vanilla dream
This one’s a classic – like your nana’s bedtime stories in a mug. Chamomile is nature’s chill pill, and the vanilla adds a creamy, comforting twist.
What you’ll need:
- 1 tbsp dried chamomile flowers (or 1 chamomile tea bag)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 250ml freshly boiled water
How to make it:
Steep the chamomile in hot water for 5–7 minutes. Add vanilla, stir, and enjoy while wrapped in something fluffy.
Why it works:
Chamomile contains apigenin – a compound that helps reduce anxiety and promote sleepiness. Vanilla’s just there to make it feel like a hug.
2. lavender & lemon balm lullaby
Soft, floral, and ever so slightly citrusy. This blend is perfect if your brain’s still running the day’s to-do list on repeat.
You’ll need:
- 1 tsp dried lavender buds
- 1 tsp dried lemon balm
- 250ml hot water
How to make it:
Steep for 5–8 minutes. Strain, sip slowly, and breathe deep – you’re on your way to dreamland.
Why it works:
Lavender is well-known for its calming effects, while lemon balm has been used since ancient times to reduce restlessness and help with sleep.
3. peppermint & liquorice nightcap
Don’t let the minty freshness fool you – this one’s all about comfort. Perfect for a happy tummy and a quiet mind.
You’ll need:
- 1 tsp dried peppermint leaves
- ½ tsp dried liquorice root
- 250ml boiling water
How to make it:
Let it steep for 7–10 minutes. Strain and enjoy. (Note: if you’ve got high blood pressure, skip the liquorice.)
Why it works:
Peppermint soothes digestion, and a calm gut = a calm brain. Liquorice adds natural sweetness and helps balance cortisol – your stress hormone.
4. spiced apple sleepy cider
A warming, autumnal twist – like apple pie in a mug. Best served in bed, under a blanket, while pretending it’s raining outside.
You’ll need:
- 1 apple (sliced)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- A few slices of fresh ginger
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- 300ml water
How to make it:
Simmer everything in a small pot for 10–15 minutes. Strain into your favourite mug and add honey if you like it sweet.
Why it works:
Cinnamon and ginger help with digestion and circulation. Apples contain antioxidants that promote calm. Bonus: it smells amazing.
5. oat straw & rose petal snooze brew
A bit more niche, but trust us – this one’s a keeper. Oat straw is deeply nourishing (1), and rose adds a little luxury to your late-night moment.
You’ll need:
- 1 tsp dried oat straw
- ½ tsp dried rose petals (edible grade)
- 250ml hot water
How to make it:
Steep for 10 minutes, strain, and sip slowly while journaling, meditating, or just staring peacefully into the abyss.
Why it works:
Oat straw is rich in minerals that help your nervous system relax (2), and rose petals are known to lift mood and ease stress. Fancy and functional.
a few sleepy tea tips
- Always check for allergies or interactions with medications. Safety first, nap later.
- Make it part of your routine – the ritual itself can be as calming as the tea.
- Drink 30–60 minutes before bed, so you’re not waking up at 3 a.m. needing a wee.
a final sip
A good cup of herbal tea won’t solve all of life’s problems – but it can help you unwind, exhale, and drift off a little easier. Pair it with soft lighting, your favourite mug, and a bed that feels like a cloud (hi, eve mattresses 👋), and you’re all set.
