Tea and Mental Health

Tea and Mental Health: Science Behind Calm, Cognition, and Resilience.

Tea has long been valued for its soothing properties, but modern research is uncovering its measurable effects on mental health, mood, and cognitive function. While no single drink can cure depression or prevent cognitive decline, evidence suggests that tea and certain herbal infusions like Rooibos may support brain health and emotional well-being.

Tea, Stress, and Depression

One of the most studied compounds in tea is L-theanine, an amino acid found almost exclusively in tea leaves. L-theanine increases alpha brain wave activity, which is associated with relaxed but alert states. When combined with caffeine—present in green and black teas—it produces what researchers call a state of 'calm alertness.'

- A 2019 review in Nutrients found that regular tea consumption was associated with lower risks of depression and stress-related disorders.

- L-theanine may also influence levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, both of which play central roles in mood regulation.

Polyphenols in tea, such as catechins (green tea) and theaflavins (black tea), also show anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Since chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are linked to depression, these compounds may provide protective benefits.

Rooibos and Mental Well-being

Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis), a naturally caffeine-free herbal tea from South Africa, has been gaining attention for its unique antioxidant profile. Two notable flavonoids, aspalathin and quercetin, may help regulate stress hormones and protect the brain from oxidative damage.

- Studies have shown Rooibos extracts can reduce cortisol levels, the body’s primary stress hormone, supporting resilience against stress-related mental fatigue.

- Rooibos is also linked to improved sleep quality, an important factor in both mental health and cognitive performance.

Although human studies are still limited, Rooibos is considered a safe, accessible beverage that complements other lifestyle approaches to supporting mood and cognition.

Tea and Cognition

Cognitive decline is a major health concern as populations age, and tea may play a role in protecting brain function:

- A 2017 study in The Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging reported that older adults who regularly drank tea had significantly lower risks of cognitive impairment.

- Green tea catechins, particularly EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), have neuroprotective properties that may slow down age-related memory decline.

- Black tea’s theaflavins and oolong tea’s thearubigins may also protect neurons and improve cerebral blood flow, supporting memory and executive function.

The benefits appear strongest with habitual tea consumption—one or more cups per day over years.

Putting It Together

While tea should not be seen as a replacement for medical treatment, evidence supports its role as a complementary approach to mental well-being:

- Green and black teas: support calm alertness, reduce stress, and may lower depression risk.

- Rooibos: caffeine-free option with antioxidants that may regulate stress hormones and improve sleep.

- Long-term tea consumption: associated with sharper memory and reduced risk of cognitive decline.

In short, tea is more than a cultural ritual—it is a daily practice that may support brain health, resilience, and emotional balance.