Night Cap

Purpose & Dosage:

This tea is curated for individuals who have insomnia or struggle going and staying asleep by calming the nervous system and allowing you to fall into a deep sleep. 

Drink 1 serving (10-12 oz.) 30 minutes to an hour before bed.

1. Valerian Root – The Sleep Inducer

• Primary Role: Sedative, sleep aid, muscle relaxant

• How it Works: Valerian root boosts GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) levels in the brain—a neurotransmitter that calms nerve activity. This leads to a natural sense of sedation without grogginess the next day (for most people).

• Additional Benefits:

  • Reduces anxiety and restlessness

  • Eases tense muscles and spasms

  • Supports deep, uninterrupted sleep

• Flavor Note: Earthy and strong, slightly bitter—needs support from other herbs to make it more palatable.

2. Chamomile – The Gentle Soother

• Primary Role: Calms the nervous system, eases digestion

• How it Works: Chamomile contains apigenin, a flavonoid that binds to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and sleep. It also reduces inflammation and supports digestion, making it ideal before bed.

• Additional Benefits:

  • Helps with bloating, gas, and digestive cramps

  • Mildly anti-inflammatory

  • Supports skin and immune health indirectly through its calming effect

• Flavor Note: Sweet, floral, and apple-like—balances out Valerian’s bitterness.

3. Lavender – The Nervine & Mood Lifter

• Primary Role: Eases anxiety, calms the mind, light sedative

• How it Works: Lavender’s essential oils (especially linalool) interact with the limbic system in the brain—regulating mood and inducing relaxation. It also helps quiet racing thoughts and tension.

• Additional Benefits:

  • Reduces headaches and nervous tension

  • Supports heart rate regulation and deep breathing

  • Natural antidepressant-like effects

• Flavor Note: Floral and slightly bitter—adds depth and aroma to the blend.

4. Cinnamon Chips – The Warm Sweetener

• Primary Role: Natural sweetener, circulation enhancer, digestive aid

• How it Works: Cinnamon helps balance blood sugar, supports circulation, and soothes the digestive tract. Its comforting warmth promotes a sense of coziness and emotional calm, perfect for winding down.

• Additional Benefits:

  • Mild antimicrobial

  • Enhances nutrient absorption

  • Grounds the nervous system

• Flavor Note: Sweet, warming, and spicy—helps offset the bitterness of valerian and lavender.

5. Stevia Leaf – The Natural Sweet-Leaf

• Primary Role: Adds sweetness without sugar

• How it Works: The whole stevia leaf contains steviol glycosides, which stimulate the sweet receptors on the tongue without affecting blood sugar. Unlike extracts, whole leaf stevia has a green, mildly herbaceous profile that blends well with florals.

• Additional Benefits:

  • Zero calories

  • No impact on insulin or blood sugar

  • Slightly cooling and anti-inflammatory

• Flavor Note: Sweet with a green aftertaste—best used in moderation.

Synergy of the Blend:

Your blend works because it covers all three major systems involved in restful sleep:

1. Nervous System Support: Valerian, Chamomile, Lavender

2. Digestive Relaxation: Chamomile, Cinnamon, Lavender

3. Mood & Emotional Regulation: Lavender, Cinnamon, Valerian

Plus, it’s naturally sweet and free of sugar, caffeine, or stimulants, which keeps the body and mind in true rest mode.