Contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to brain receptors to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety
Widely studied for its sleep-enhancing effects
A 2016 study in Phytomedicine found chamomile improved sleep quality in adults with mild insomnia
✅ Best known for its gentle, floral flavor and bedtime benefits.
2. Cinnamon – Warmth That Soothes the Mind & Body
Rich in cinnamaldehyde, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
Helps stabilize blood sugar, preventing nighttime crashes that disrupt sleep
Its warm, sweet aroma has a naturally comforting effect — often used in aromatherapy
✅ Also supports digestion, which is key when stress affects the gut.
3. Laurel (Bay Leaf) – The Forgotten Calming Herb
Often used in cooking, but also valued in traditional medicine
Contains linalool and cineole, compounds with sedative and anti-anxiety effects
Used in folk remedies to calm nerves, aid digestion, and promote restful sleep
A 2020 animal study found bay leaf extract had significant anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) activity
🍃 Don’t eat the leaf — it’s tough and can be a choking hazard. Use it to infuse, then remove.
