The 7 best teas to drink to reduce stress and anxiety, according to a registered dietitian

Life can feel like a whirlwind, with endless deadlines and responsibilities pulling you in every direction. If you’re craving a way to unwind and escape the chaos, a soothing cup of tea could be precisely what you need. Packed with calming ingredients and backed by expert recommendations, the best teas for stress and anxiety offer a simple way to reclaim a moment of peace.

Feeling more overwhelmed than usual? You’re not alone. According to the 2024 American Psychiatric Association’s annual mental health survey, 43% of U.S. adults report feeling more anxious than they did the previous year — up from 37% in 2023. More than half (53%) pointed to lifestyle stressors as a key factor, while 40% attributed their heightened anxiety to poor sleep.

While these statistics may seem daunting, small lifestyle changes can help manage stress and anxiety, providing a much-needed boost to your mental health. Practices like journaling, exercising and prioritizing sleep may help enhance your sense of calm. Sipping on a warm cup of tea — especially one containing ingredients with calming properties — may also be helpful for quieting your brain.

As one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, tea is well-known for its many health benefits. But with so many options — from complex blends to hard-to-pronounce ingredients — choosing the right tea for your needs can feel like a gamble. That’s why we did the hard work for you.

We started by talking with tea experts to understand different kinds of teas and which ones might be most helpful for relaxation. Combining their insights with my expertise as a registered dietitian, I selected 11 teas from 10 different brands and put them to the test. Curious about which ones made the cut? Start warming up a kettle, get your favorite teacup ready and continue reading for our picks of the best teas for stress and anxiety in 2025.

A note on supplements

The products included on this list are dietary supplements. Statements about these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Dietary supplements are not appropriate for everyone and may interact with other supplements or medications, so talk to your health care provider before adding a dietary supplement to your routine.

Best overall tea for stress and anxiety

More teas we like for stress and anxiety for 2025

Why herbal teas may be helpful for stress and anxiety

There are many types of tea, including black, green, white, oolong and herbal blends. While all varieties offer health benefits, herbal teas may be particularly effective for stress and anxiety relief.

They may contain calm-promoting ingredients

Some herbal teas include ingredients that may have calming effects. Ingredients to look for in an herbal tea for stress and anxiety include: