Calming Lavender and Vanilla Sleep Aid Tea

This calming lavender and vanilla sleep aid tea is the perfect way to wind down before bed. The lavender flowers and vanilla bean will help you relax and drift off to sleep. The honey or maple syrup will add a touch of sweetness, and the fresh lavender flowers or ground nutmeg will give it a beautiful garnish.

I've always been a fan of lavender. I love the way it smells, and I find it to be very calming. A few years ago, I started experimenting with using lavender in tea, and I quickly realized that it was the perfect way to relax before bed. I've tried many different lavender tea recipes over the years, but this one is by far my favorite. It's simple to make, and it always helps me to get a good night's sleep.

Prep time: 5 | Cook time: 10 | Serves: 1

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 2 teaspoons dried lavender flowers
• 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• Fresh lavender flowers or a sprinkle of ground nutmeg, for garnish

Instructions

1. Bring the water to a boil in a small saucepan.
2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the lavender flowers and vanilla bean.
3. Cover and let steep for 5-10 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup.
5. Add honey or maple syrup, if desired.
6. Garnish with fresh lavender flowers or a sprinkle of ground nutmeg.

Why It Works

• The lavender flowers contain a compound called linalool, which has been shown to have sedative and hypnotic effects.
• The vanilla bean contains a compound called vanillin, which has been shown to have calming and relaxing effects.
• The honey or maple syrup will add a touch of sweetness to the tea, which can help to promote relaxation.
• The fresh lavender flowers or ground nutmeg will give the tea a beautiful garnish and a touch of extra flavor.