In the rush of modern life, moments of anxiety can creep up when we least expect them.

One of the simplest, most effective remedies for stress is found in the humble act of making tea. Beyond its warmth and comfort, tea-making can become a deeply grounding ritual, especially when crafted with calming intentions and sprinkled with healing magick.

In this article, we’ll take a little look at creating your own calming tea blends, combining herbal properties with spiritual intent. Plus, we’ll share three soothing recipes to guide you on your journey to peace.

The magickal benefits of tea-making

Tea-making isn’t just about steeping leaves in water – it’s a transformative ritual. From the slow, contemplative process of choosing herbs (or should that be letting herbs choose you?) to heating water, and witnessing the alchemy of infusion, tea-making is hearth witchery at its simplest, and finest. 

When you craft a brew as a kitchen witch, you’re imbuing your tea with intention, turning a simple beverage into a powerful ally for calming the mind and centring the spirit.

Because each herb carries its own particular energy, you’re also adding these to the mix when you make tea. By understanding these correspondences, you can create blends that address your specific needs while also aligning with your body’s natural rhythms, as well as the Earth’s seasonality.

A list of calming herbs

When crafting a calming, anti-anxiety tea, the herbs you choose will set the tone for your brew. Here are some excellent ingredients to work with:

Chamomile: Known for its gentle calming properties, chamomile soothes the nervous system and promotes restful sleep.

Lavender: A floral herb that relieves tension, reduces headaches, and instils peace.

Lemon balm: This uplifting herb is ideal for reducing feelings of anxiety and improving mood.

Peppermint: Refreshing and clarifying, it helps relieve mental and physical tension.

Rose petals: Perfect for self-love and compassion, they also have a delicate calming effect.

Oat straw: A wonderful choice for grounding and nourishing the nervous system.

Honey: Not just a sweetener, honey is thought to carry protective and healing energy.

Valerian root: Known for its sedative effects, this herb is perfect for deep relaxation and aiding sleep.

Passionflower: Reduces overthinking and quiets a restless mind, ideal for evening tea blends.

Hops: Often paired with valerian, hops soothe anxiety and promote restful sleep.

Holy basil (tulsi): An adaptogen that helps balance stress hormones and encourages a sense of calm.

Ashwagandha: Another adaptogen, it helps manage chronic stress and anxiety by grounding the nervous system.

Skullcap: A gentle herb that calms frazzled nerves and reduces tension headaches (avoid combining skullcap – just drink on its own)

Licorice root: Adds a natural sweetness and supports adrenal health, making it excellent for combating stress-related fatigue.

St. John’s wort: Known for its mood-lifting properties, it can help with mild anxiety and emotional imbalances.

Blue lotus: Historically used in sacred rituals, it promotes a sense of tranquility and a dreamlike calm.

Fennel seeds: Often overlooked, fennel relieves digestive tension linked to anxiety and creates a soothing tea base.

3 Calming tea recipes

Crafting a calming tea is as much about intention as it’s about the ingredients.

Begin by selecting your herbs thoughtfully, holding them in your hands while focusing on your intention—whether it’s to release anxiety, find peace, or simply ground yourself. Heat your water to the appropriate temperature, add your herbs, and let them steep. As the tea brews, take a moment to breathe deeply and visualize the calming energy infusing the water.

When ready, pour your tea, savour each sip mindfully, and let the ritual bring you peace.

1. Soothing chamomile & lavender blend

This gentle tea is perfect for winding down after a stressful day.

Tea blend:

• 2 tsp dried chamomile
• 1 tsp dried lavender
• 1 tsp lemon balm
• Honey (optional)

Combine all ingredients in an infuser, tea pot or tea bag. Add hot water and steep for 6–8 minutes. Sweeten with honey to taste.

2. Uplifting lemon & mint calm tea

Bright and refreshing, this tea helps clear your mind and uplift your spirit.

Tea blend:

• 1 tsp lemon balm
• 1 tsp peppermint
• 1 tsp dried rose petals
• 1/2 tsp fennel seeds (to ease digestive tension and add a hint of sweetness)
• 1 thin slice of fresh lemon

Combine herbs in a teapot and add boiling water. Steep for 7 minutes. Garnish with a lemon slice before serving.

 3. Heartwarming oat straw and rose tea

Grounding and comforting, this tea nurtures the soul and promotes self-love.

Tea blend:

• 1 tsp oat straw
• 1 tsp dried rose petals
• 1 small pinch of cinnamon
• 1 tsp valerian root (for deep relaxation and unwinding)
• Honey (optional)

Combine all ingredients in an infuser or tea bag. Add hot water and steep for 6–8 minutes. Sweeten with honey if desired.

Creating a calming tea isn’t just about soothing your nerves, it’s an act of self-love and a tangible (and delicious!) reminder to slow down.

As you sip your tea, let its warmth and energy remind you that peace is always within reach, and it’s within your power to embrace this small yet potent tool to centre yourself in moments of need.

These blends also make incredible gifts! So make up a larger batch, package with care, and offer to a friend in need, to share the love.