CBD and Herbal Teas: A Natural Match for Relaxation and Wellness

by Dr. LaSonya Lopez, MD

November 26, 2024

In the world of wellness, few things are as popular (and calming) as a warm cup of herbal tea—or a dose of CBD. These two natural remedies have made big waves for their ability to soothe the mind, relieve tension, and promote overall health. But what happens when we bring them together? Can sipping a CBD-infused tea really help us reach new levels of relaxation and well-being? Let’s dive into the world of CBD herbal teas, exploring how they work, what benefits they offer, and why this pairing could be the ultimate addition to your wellness routine.

First Things First: What Is CBD?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of over 100 compounds found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, the psychoactive cousin of CBD, cannabidiol won’t get you "high." Instead, it’s celebrated for its potential calming and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular choice for those looking for natural relief from stress, anxiety, pain, and sleep issues.

With the legalization of hemp-derived CBD in many places, this natural compound has found its way into all sorts of products, from oils and tinctures to skincare and now, herbal teas. In tea form, CBD offers a gentle, calming way to experience its benefits, making it the perfect partner for your favorite herbs and tea blends.

Why Pair CBD with Herbal Teas?

Herbal teas have long been used to support relaxation, digestion, immunity, and more. Each herb brings its unique profile of nutrients, antioxidants, and natural compounds that can calm, energize, or help us sleep. When you add CBD to the mix, it enhances the soothing qualities of the tea, potentially adding a layer of relaxation, pain relief, or calm focus to your cup.

CBD works with our body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors that play a role in regulating mood, sleep, immune response, and pain. By supporting the ECS, CBD may amplify the natural effects of herbal teas, whether it’s peppermint for digestion, chamomile for sleep, or ginger for inflammation.

The Potential Benefits of CBD-Infused Teas

While research on CBD is still emerging, many people report feeling calmer and more balanced with regular CBD use. Here are some ways a CBD tea blend could enhance your daily wellness routine:

1. Relaxation and Stress Relief

One of the biggest reasons people turn to CBD is for relaxation. When combined with naturally calming herbs like chamomile, lavender, or lemon balm, CBD may help ease stress, reduce anxiety, and promote a relaxed state without the need for pharmaceuticals.

2. Improved Sleep

Insomnia and restless nights are common, and many herbal teas are already known for their sleep-promoting properties. Blending CBD with calming herbs like passionflower and valerian root could support relaxation, helping you unwind and achieve deeper, more restful sleep.

3. Pain and Inflammation Relief

CBD is often used by people seeking relief from chronic pain and inflammation. Herbal teas like turmeric, ginger, and peppermint are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties, making this combination a natural choice for anyone looking to soothe discomfort from sore muscles, arthritis, or digestive issues.

4. Enhanced Focus and Mental Clarity

CBD’s calming effects don’t just promote relaxation; they can also help us stay calm and focused. When paired with herbs like ginkgo biloba or rosemary, CBD tea can help reduce mental fog, improve concentration, and support an alert but peaceful state—perfect for busy workdays or study sessions.

5. Immune Support

Many herbal teas are rich in antioxidants and vitamins that support the immune system. Combined with CBD, which also has anti-inflammatory and potential immune-modulating effects, herbal teas like elderberry, echinacea, and green tea can become even more effective in promoting immune health.

How to Choose the Right CBD Tea

Not all CBD teas are created equal, so here are a few things to look for when choosing your perfect blend:

Quality of CBD: Look for teas that contain high-quality, hemp-derived CBD from reputable sources. Full-spectrum CBD contains other beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant, while broad-spectrum has those benefits without THC. CBD isolate, on the other hand, is pure CBD without any additional compounds.
CBD Dosage: Since CBD affects everyone differently, start with a lower dosage (around 10-15 mg per cup) to see how it feels. You can always increase the amount gradually if needed. Many CBD teas offer a range from 5 mg to 25 mg per cup.
Complementary Herbs: Choose a blend with herbs that match your wellness goals. For example, if you’re seeking better sleep, look for a CBD tea with chamomile and lavender. For focus, look for blends with ginkgo biloba or rosemary.
Flavor Profile: The earthy, slightly bitter flavor of CBD might not be for everyone, so look for blends that balance it with pleasant, naturally sweet or spicy herbs. Peppermint, ginger, and cinnamon can help mask any strong CBD taste.

Brewing Tips for CBD Tea

Making CBD tea isn’t too different from brewing any other tea, but there are a few tips that can help you get the most from your cup:

Use Hot, Not Boiling Water: CBD’s delicate compounds can degrade in high heat, so opt for hot water just below boiling to preserve its potency.
Steep for 5–10 Minutes: This gives the CBD time to infuse with the tea and allows the herbs to release their beneficial compounds. If you like stronger tea, let it steep a bit longer.
Add a Fat Source for Better Absorption: CBD is fat-soluble, so adding a little fat to your tea can improve absorption. A splash of coconut milk, almond milk, or even a dash of MCT oil can do the trick!
Store Properly: If you buy pre-made CBD tea bags, keep them in a cool, dark place to preserve their potency. Light and heat can degrade CBD over time.

DIY CBD Tea: Make Your Own Blend at Home

If you love experimenting with flavors, try making your own CBD tea blend at home! All you need is a few dried herbs, some CBD oil or powder, and a love for creativity.

DIY CBD Sleepy Time Tea Recipe

1 tsp dried chamomile
1 tsp dried lavender
1 tsp dried lemon balm
1/2 dropper (5 mg) of CBD oil

Add the herbs to a tea infuser, place it in your mug, and pour hot water over the top. Let steep for 5–10 minutes, then add the CBD oil and stir well. Sip slowly and enjoy!

Is CBD Tea Right for You?

CBD tea is a gentle, enjoyable way to experience the potential benefits of cannabidiol, especially if you’re new to CBD. If you’re looking to reduce stress, sleep better, ease discomfort, or simply enjoy a more mindful moment in your day, CBD tea could be a lovely addition to your wellness toolkit.

That said, everyone’s body responds differently to CBD, so it’s a good idea to start slow and see how you feel. And if you’re on any medication or have specific health conditions, it’s always wise to consult a healthcare professional before adding CBD to your routine.

Final Sip: Embracing the Calm with CBD Herbal Teas

At the end of the day, CBD tea is about more than just potential health benefits—it’s a small ritual that invites you to slow down, breathe, and be present. Whether you’re easing into the day with a calming blend or winding down with a soothing nightcap, CBD-infused herbal tea can be a comforting, natural way to support your wellness journey. So, brew up a cup, get cozy, and let CBD and nature’s finest herbs work their magic—one sip at a time. Cheers to a new level of calm and clarity!