Top 8 Teas to Beat Mood Swings

Mood swings can stem from stress, hormonal shifts, poor sleep, nutritional gaps, or simply the pace of daily life. While tea is not a medical cure, centuries of traditional use and modern research suggest that certain herbal teas may help lift your spirits, calm anxiety, support neurotransmitter balance, and improve emotional stability.

8 Teas to Remedy Your Mood Swings Naturally

This guide explores eight scientifically backed teas that can gently support your mood—naturally and safely.

1. Chamomile Tea – The Classic Calming Cup for Emotional Ease

Chamomile has been used for centuries as a natural relaxant, and modern research supports its soothing effects. Its key compound, apigenin, binds to receptors in the brain that help reduce anxiety and promote sleep. Chamomile tea is ideal for people experiencing mood swings caused by stress, overwhelm, or restlessness. With regular consumption, it can help soften emotional highs and lows by promoting overall calmness (1). It’s also gentle enough to be consumed throughout the day.

2. Green Tea – A Focus-Enhancing Brew That Supports Stable Mood

Green tea is rich in L-theanine, an amino acid known to support relaxed alertness. Studies show that L-theanine can reduce cortisol levels, improve focus, and stabilize emotional responses (2). When paired with a mild dose of caffeine, this tea offers a balanced energy lift without jitteriness or crashes—two triggers that can worsen mood swings. It’s perfect for those who need emotional steadiness during mentally demanding tasks or long workdays.

3. Lavender Tea – A Floral Stress-Reducer for Irritable Moods

Lavender tea is well-known for its ability to ease emotional tension and irritability. Research on lavender aromatherapy and oral consumption shows significant reductions in anxiety and nervous system arousal (3). Its floral aroma also plays a role in calming the mind and reducing overstimulation. If your mood swings include irritability, frustration, or physical tension, a warm cup of lavender tea can help restore emotional softness and peace.

4. Lemon Balm Tea – The Cheerful Herb That Lifts Low Spirits

Lemon balm contains compounds that support the brain’s GABA system, which regulates mood and stress responses. Studies show that lemon balm can improve calmness, speed cognitive function, and reduce anxiety-related symptoms (4). Its bright, citrusy flavor has a naturally uplifting effect, making it a great choice for those experiencing mood swings tied to emotional fatigue or sadness. It helps bring mental clarity and emotional steadiness without causing drowsiness.

5. Ashwagandha Tea – The Stress-Buffering Adaptogen for Hormonal Balance

Ashwagandha is one of the most powerful adaptogens in Ayurvedic medicine. Modern research suggests it can significantly reduce cortisol levels and support the body during chronic stress (5). This makes it particularly helpful for mood swings related to hormonal fluctuations, chronic stress, or burnout. Ashwagandha tea helps the body adapt better to emotional triggers and maintain a more balanced emotional state over time. Its earthy flavor also creates a grounding sensory experience.

6. Peppermint Tea – A Refreshing Reset for Irritability and Mental Fatigue

Peppermint tea offers a cooling and energizing effect that can uplift the mood almost instantly. Its main active compound, menthol, has been shown to help relax muscles, improve alertness, and decrease feelings of fatigue. Research also shows peppermint may improve cognitive performance, making it useful when mood swings are tied to mental overload or physical discomfort (6). Peppermint tea is a great go-to when you need a quick emotional reset.

7. Hibiscus Tea – A Vibrant Mood-Lifter Rich in Antioxidants

Hibiscus tea is packed with anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that support cardiovascular health and may help manage stress-related inflammation. Its bold, tangy flavor naturally energizes the senses, making it an excellent choice for lifting low moods. Some research also suggests hibiscus can help regulate blood pressure, indirectly supporting emotional stability (7). This tea is ideal for those who prefer a refreshing, fruit-forward flavor while nurturing their mood.

8. Rooibos Tea – A Caffeine-Free Comfort Brew for Nighttime Mood Support

Rooibos is naturally caffeine-free and rich in aspalathin, a compound linked to reduced stress hormone production (8). Because it contains no caffeine, rooibos is perfect for evening consumption—especially if your mood swings worsen due to poor sleep or nighttime anxiety. Its warm, earthy flavor provides emotional comfort, and its antioxidant profile supports overall nervous system health. Rooibos tea helps create a calming nighttime ritual that enhances emotional balance.

What Science Says About Tea and Mood Regulation

Many herbal teas contain bioactive compounds—like flavonoids, polyphenols, and terpenoids—that interact with the nervous system. These compounds may influence neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, GABA), reduce oxidative stress, and regulate cortisol.

While tea is not a substitute for medical treatment, research consistently shows that calming herbal teas can complement emotional wellness practices like mindfulness, exercise, and adequate sleep (9).

Herbal teas offer a gentle, natural way to support emotional balance. From calming chamomile to uplifting lemon balm and stress-supporting ashwagandha, each tea brings its own therapeutic benefits. Drinking these teas mindfully—paired with healthy habits—can help ease mood swings and bring more peace, clarity, and consistency to your day.