Herbs That Help You Sleep Naturally

Explore calming herbs like chamomile, valerian root, passionflower, and peppermint—and how they support deeper, more restful sleep.

In an age of overstimulation and non-stop schedules, quality sleep has become both essential and elusive. While many turn to over-the-counter solutions, there’s growing awareness around the benefits of natural sleep support. Herbal medicine, especially when rooted in Eastern and holistic practices, offers time-tested remedies that gently support the body's ability to unwind.

Below, we explore four calming herbs often used in sleep-supportive teas, and how they work to promote relaxation, ease tension, and encourage more restful nights.

Chamomile

A calming flower that soothes the nervous system and promotes deep relaxation

Chamomile has been used for centuries as a mild sedative and anti-inflammatory. Its calming effects are primarily attributed to apigenin, an antioxidant compound that binds to specific receptors in the brain, reducing anxiety and initiating sleep. Chamomile is often used in traditional medicine to treat insomnia, reduce restlessness, and quiet a busy mind.

In addition to its sedative qualities, chamomile supports digestion and gut health—often a root cause of nighttime discomfort. By calming both the body and the digestive system, it helps prepare the body for a state of rest and repair.

Key benefits: Naturally reduces anxiety, supports better sleep onset, and soothes physical and emotional tension.

Passionflower

An herbal ally that quiets mental chatter and slows down brain activity

Passionflower is especially helpful for those who experience an overactive mind at night. It increases levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain—a neurotransmitter that helps reduce nervous activity. Higher GABA levels result in decreased anxiety and a greater sense of calm, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.

This herb is particularly useful for individuals dealing with stress-induced sleep issues, or those who find themselves waking up frequently throughout the night. Passionflower doesn’t cause drowsiness but instead helps the body return to a natural, balanced state of rest.

Key benefits: Promotes mental calm, reduces nighttime restlessness, and supports longer, uninterrupted sleep.

Valerian Root

A powerful herbal sedative that supports both sleep quality and duration

Valerian root is one of the most researched herbal remedies for sleep, with a long history of use dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. It works by increasing GABA availability in the brain, much like passionflower, but with a more pronounced sedative effect. This makes valerian ideal for those who have trouble falling asleep or suffer from poor sleep quality.

Valerian may also reduce the number of nighttime awakenings and help regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Unlike pharmaceutical sleep aids, it works in harmony with the body’s natural chemistry and is not habit-forming.

Key benefits: Shortens sleep latency (time it takes to fall asleep), enhances sleep depth, and supports natural circadian rhythms.

Peppermint

A refreshing herb that reduces stress and helps the body unwind

While peppermint isn’t a traditional sedative, its soothing and muscle-relaxing properties make it a powerful addition to sleep-supportive herbal blends. Its natural menthol content relaxes the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, making it ideal for those whose sleep is disrupted by bloating, indigestion, or discomfort.

The scent of peppermint alone has been shown in some studies to reduce anxiety and mental fatigue. As part of a bedtime routine, peppermint helps signal the body that it’s time to slow down, breathe deeper, and release physical tension from the day.

Key benefits: Relieves tension, eases digestion-related sleep disturbances, and promotes a relaxed state of being.

Better Sleep Starts With Nature

At The Anteadote, we believe sleep should be supported gently and naturally. Our Goodnight Blend is crafted with these four organic herbs—each one carefully selected for its ability to help the body wind down, quiet the mind, and prepare for rest.

Whether you’re seeking to replace sleep medications or simply enhance your nightly routine, our blend offers a calming, caffeine-free way to end your day with intention and care.

Crafted to support rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation—one calming cup at a time.