Best Herbal Teas for Skin and Stress

By Isla Bennett | Spa & Wellness | The International Institute of Beauty

In the quiet ritual of tea making lies a profound opportunity for self care. A simple cup of herbal tea can offer so much more than hydration it can soothe the nervous system, support radiant skin, and provide a moment of stillness in the midst of a busy day. For centuries, herbs have been used in traditional wellness practices to nourish both body and mind. Today, they continue to offer a gentle yet powerful way to restore balance, inside and out.

In this article, we explore some of the best herbal teas for promoting healthy, glowing skin and easing stress, so you can sip your way to both beauty and calm.

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Why Herbal Tea?

Unlike caffeinated teas or coffee, herbal teas (also known as tisanes) are made by steeping flowers, leaves, seeds, or roots in hot water. These infusions are caffeine free, making them ideal for evening rituals or for those sensitive to stimulants. Many herbs contain antioxidants, anti inflammatory compounds, and nervine properties that support both dermatological and emotional well being.

When enjoyed regularly, herbal teas can:

• Support detoxification pathways

• Promote clearer, brighter skin

• Soothe inflammation and redness

• Reduce stress and anxiety

• Encourage restful sleep

Let’s explore some of the most skin loving and stress relieving herbal teas to add to your wellness routine.

1. Chamomile For Calming and Clarifying

Perhaps the most well known calming tea, chamomile is beloved for its gentle, floral flavour and profound calming effects. It works as a natural nervine, relaxing the mind and body without sedation.

Skin benefits: Chamomile has anti inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help soothe conditions like eczema, rosacea, or acne. It’s also thought to support digestion, which is closely linked to skin clarity.

How to enjoy: Brew dried chamomile flowers in freshly boiled water and steep for 5–7 minutes. Ideal as a night time tea before bed.

2. Nettle For Detoxification and Skin Health

Often overlooked, nettle leaf is a powerhouse herb rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and silica all of which contribute to skin repair and radiance.

Skin benefits: Nettle is known for its ability to reduce inflammation, regulate oil production, and support the body's natural detoxification processes through the liver and kidneys. This can be especially beneficial for acne prone or congested skin.

Stress support: Its mild nervine properties make it gently supportive of the nervous system, particularly during burnout.

How to enjoy: Brew nettle leaves on their own or blended with other herbs. Its grassy, mineral rich taste can be softened with a touch of honey or mint.

3. Rose For Heart Centred Calm and Glow

Fragrant and elegant, rose petals offer both emotional uplift and skin support. In herbalism, rose is seen as a heart opening herb that soothes sadness, anxiety, and grief.

Skin benefits: Rose tea is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that help promote skin elasticity, fight free radicals, and support a healthy glow.

Stress support: Rose has gentle mood balancing qualities, often used to ease emotional tension and promote a sense of inner harmony.

How to enjoy: Steep dried rose petals for 5 to 7 minutes. The result is a lightly floral, slightly sweet tea that pairs beautifully with a moment of mindfulness.

4. Lemon Balm For Nervous System Nourishment

Part of the mint family, lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a bright, lemon scented herb known for its calming and uplifting effects on the mind.

Skin benefits: Its antiviral and antibacterial properties may support clearer skin and reduce breakouts linked to stress. It’s also rich in antioxidants that support skin repair.

Stress support: Lemon balm is especially helpful for anxiety, emotional restlessness, and tension headaches. It’s commonly used to support sleep and nervous system balance.

How to enjoy: Brew fresh or dried lemon balm leaves for 5–10 minutes. It has a mild citrusy taste that blends well with chamomile or lavender.

5. Spearmint For Hormonal Balance and Mental Clarity

Unlike its stronger cousin peppermint, spearmint offers a softer, sweeter flavour and a remarkable ability to support hormonal harmony, particularly in women.

Skin benefits: Studies suggest that spearmint tea may help reduce androgen levels, which can be beneficial for those with hormonal acne. It also contains antioxidants that protect the skin from oxidative stress.

Stress support: The uplifting scent and flavour of spearmint promote clarity and gentle mental focus, making it ideal for mid day resets.

How to enjoy: Enjoy spearmint on its own or blended with green tea in the morning. It's cooling and refreshing, both hot and iced.

6. Tulsi (Holy Basil) For Adaptogenic Support

Tulsi, also known as holy basil, is an adaptogenic herb revered in Ayurvedic medicine for its ability to support the body’s response to stress.

Skin benefits: Tulsi’s anti inflammatory and antibacterial properties can benefit skin prone to breakouts or dullness. Its antioxidant content also supports long term skin resilience.

Stress support :Tulsi helps regulate cortisol levels, reduce mental fog, and support a calm, grounded energy throughout the day.

How to enjoy: Tulsi tea has a warming, slightly spicy flavour. It pairs beautifully with ginger or rose and can be enjoyed morning or afternoon.

How to Make Herbal Tea a Daily Ritual

A cup of herbal tea is a beautiful excuse to pause and check in with yourself. Here are a few tips to elevate your tea ritual:

• Use loose leaf herbs when possible for better potency and quality

• Steep with intention slow down while the water heats, breathe in the aroma, and drink mindfully

• Pair your tea with a calming activity: journaling, reading, a short meditation, or simply sitting in silence

• Keep a small selection of your favourite herbs on hand so you can choose based on your mood or skin needs

Final Thoughts: Sip Slowly, Shine Softly

The path to radiant skin and a calm mind isn’t found in extremes it’s found in consistency, gentleness, and daily rituals that restore and replenish. Herbal teas offer a quiet, nurturing form of nourishment that works from the inside out. By choosing blends that support both your skin and your spirit, you create space for balance in the most beautiful way.

So the next time you find yourself rushing, take a breath, boil the kettle, and pour yourself a little cup of calm. Your skin and your soul will thank you.