The end of every day is the body’s chance to rest and nurture itself. And as 16th-century author Thomas Dekker writes, “Sleep is that golden chain that ties health and our bodies together.” While there is still much speculation in the science community regarding the reasons behind the body’s need for sleep, two things are true: after a good night’s sleep, we are happier, more alert, and have more energy; after a bad night’s sleep, we are tired, cranky, and have trouble concentrating. Practicing good sleep hygiene can definitely help you get those zzzz’s, which includes turning to our herbal allies when we need extra support falling, and staying, asleep. To help you get a good night’s sleep, our herbalists formulated two teas: Nighty Night® and Nighty Night® Extra. Read below to find out which one is best for you.
“Sleep is that golden chain that ties health and our bodies together.” –Thomas Dekker
Nighty Night®
In Western Herbalism, practitioners have commonly used herbs like passionflower, chamomile, hops and catnip to help people relax. Based off that traditional use, our herbalists formulated our organic Nighty Night tea blend, one of our original best-selling teas since the start of the company in 1974. This tea puts passionflower in the spotlight as the chief active ingredient. Also known as maypop, this exotically flowered vine is traditionally used in Herbal Medicine to help relieve restlessness and/or nervousness, and can be a useful sleep aid during times of mental stress.
This blend also features the tried-and-true chamomile flower. Used for centuries by herbalists worldwide, chamomile is one of the most accessible and pleasant-tasting herbs in herbalism. The ancient Egyptians adored this herb so much they offered it as a gift to their gods. Catnip and hops also contribute to the medicinal ingredients in this tea blend, boosting both the flavor and function. With spearmint and sweet orange peel for flavor, this tasty and beneficial herb combination is minty and sweet with pleasant notes of citrus.
Nighty Night® Extra
If you’re looking for something a little stronger, we also have organic Nighty Night Extra tea, fortified with the extra power of valerian. Valerian is a popular herb that was first recorded as useful for occasional sleeplessness by Greeks in the 2nd century. It has been widely used as a gentle herbal sedative since the 1700s and is considered one of nature’s great sleep aids. Its calmative powers are specifically good at helping to relieve the restlessness and/or nervousness that can make it difficult to sleep. Its roots are notorious for their musky smell and for attracting cats as much as catnip.
In our Nighty Night Extra blend, valerian is complemented by fellow sleep aid herbs passionflower and lemon balm, with a flavor profile enhanced by peppermint, caraway and licorice for an earthy and minty taste.
Treat yourself to a good night’s sleep
Our two organic Nighty Night teas have different active herbs. Since every body’s chemistry is different, you may find that one tea works better for you than another. In our modern era, practicing good sleep hygiene and getting a good night’s rest is paramount to good health. For those restless nights when you find yourself staring at the ceiling and counting sheep, turn to herbal allies like passionflower and valerian for support.
For a deeper look into our herbal teas, check out the Tea & More section of our Plant Power Journal.