20 Bedtime Drinks That Will Knock You Out Tonight
Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for your health and well-being, but sometimes winding down at the end of the day can be a challenge. Fortunately, certain bedtime drinks can help you relax, unwind, and prepare your body for restful sleep.
From soothing teas to creamy smoothies, these beverages are packed with natural compounds that promote relaxation and enhance sleep quality. Whether you’re dealing with stress, insomnia, or just need a little help winding down, incorporating a calming drink into your evening routine can make all the difference.
Read on for 20 bedtime drinks that will help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, leaving you refreshed and recharged in the morning.
Chamomile Tea: A Classic for Calmness
Chamomile tea is a tried-and-true sleep aid, and for good reason. This gentle herbal tea contains a compound called apigenin, which binds to receptors in the brain that promote relaxation and sleep. If you’re looking for something simple yet effective, chamomile is your go-to beverage.
The warmth of the tea also has a calming effect, signaling to your body that it’s time to wind down for the night. Brew a cup 30 minutes before bed, and you’ll feel the stress melt away as you sip.
For an added boost, try pairing chamomile with a good book or some light stretching for a complete bedtime ritual. It’s one of the easiest, most soothing ways to prepare your mind and body for deep, restful sleep.
Tart Cherry Juice: Nature’s Sleep Booster
Tart cherry juice is a natural sleep-enhancer that packs a punch when it comes to promoting rest. The key to its effectiveness lies in its high melatonin content. Melatonin is a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle, helping you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
A small glass (about 8 oz) of unsweetened tart cherry juice before bed is a great way to naturally boost your melatonin levels. Unlike sugary drinks, tart cherry juice is a healthy choice that helps keep your body’s internal clock on track, making it ideal for those who have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. Try it out for a few nights, and you might just find it’s your secret weapon for better sleep.
Traditional Medicinals Organic Nighty Night Tea: A Relaxing Herbal Blend
If you’re looking for a pre-bedtime drink that combines several calming herbs, Traditional Medicinals Organic Nighty Night Tea is a perfect option. This caffeine-free herbal blend includes chamomile, lemon balm, and passionflower, all known for their calming properties.
Passionflower, in particular, has been studied for its ability to reduce anxiety and promote better sleep. A cup of this tea about 30 minutes before bed will help ease your mind and prepare you for a peaceful night’s rest. The delicate floral taste is soothing and perfect for unwinding after a busy day. Plus, the convenience of pre-blended ingredients makes it an easy addition to your bedtime routine.
Lavender Tea: The Ultimate Stress Reliever
Lavender is famous for its calming, stress-relieving properties, making it an excellent choice for those who need help unwinding before bed. Lavender tea, made from the flowers of the lavender plant, has been shown to lower heart rate and reduce anxiety—two things that can keep you awake at night.
The gentle floral aroma and flavor of lavender tea have a soothing effect on both your body and mind, helping to induce a state of calmness that’s perfect for bedtime.
Steep a cup of lavender tea for 5–10 minutes, and enjoy its relaxing benefits as you prepare to drift off into dreamland. It’s a great option for anyone looking for an all-natural way to enhance sleep quality.
Warm Milk: Comfort in a Cup
For many, warm milk is the quintessential sleep-inducing drink. Why? It contains tryptophan, an amino acid that helps the body produce serotonin and melatonin—two hormones that regulate sleep.
The warmth of the milk is comforting and relaxing, making it a perfect bedtime beverage. Drinking a small cup of warm milk about 30 minutes before bed can help you feel cozy and ready for sleep.
You can also add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a little extra flavor and sweetness. It’s a timeless and simple remedy that’s been helping people get a good night’s sleep for generations.
Almond Milk: Dairy-Free Sleep Support
If you prefer a dairy-free option, almond milk is a great alternative to warm milk. Like milk, almond milk is rich in magnesium, which helps to relax muscles and support better sleep. A warm cup of almond milk can provide a soothing, gentle way to wind down before bed.
Additionally, almond milk is often fortified with calcium and vitamin D, which can support overall health. For an extra relaxing effect, add a spoonful of honey or a dash of cinnamon to your almond milk. Whether you’re lactose intolerant or simply prefer plant-based options, almond milk is a delicious and sleep-supporting alternative.
Green Tea (Decaffeinated): A Gentle Nighttime Calmer
While regular green tea contains caffeine, decaffeinated green tea is a perfect option for those seeking relaxation without the risk of disrupting their sleep. Green tea is rich in L-theanine, an amino acid known to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
It can help quiet the mind and prepare the body for a restful night’s sleep without the stimulating effects of caffeine. Steep your decaf green tea for 3–5 minutes, and enjoy its mild, earthy flavor. A cup of decaffeinated green tea before bed can support a calm, restful sleep without any of the jitters that come with other beverages.
Lemon Balm Tea: Nature’s Calming Herb
Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, is an herb known for its calming effects, making it ideal for bedtime. Studies have shown that lemon balm can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality.
This soothing herb works by calming the nervous system, making it easier for your mind to quiet down after a busy day. Lemon balm tea has a mild, lemony flavor that’s both refreshing and relaxing.
You can enjoy it on its own or combine it with other herbs like chamomile for added sleep benefits. Drinking lemon balm tea 30 minutes before bed will help set the stage for a peaceful night’s rest.
Passionflower Tea: A Calming Sleep Aid
Passionflower tea is an excellent choice for those who experience anxiety or restlessness before bed. Passionflower has been shown to reduce anxiety and promote better sleep, making it one of the most effective natural sleep aids.
This herbal tea has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and is great for calming the mind without sedating it too heavily. A cup of passionflower tea before bed can help you relax and let go of the day’s stress.
Whether you’re dealing with racing thoughts or just need a little help falling asleep, passionflower tea is a natural way to support a good night’s rest.
Banana Smoothie: A Sleep-Inducing Treat
Bananas are packed with magnesium and potassium, which help relax muscles and promote deeper sleep. A banana smoothie made with almond milk or coconut milk is a great way to create a filling, sleep-friendly bedtime snack.
Blend a ripe banana with a handful of almond butter, and you’ve got a delicious drink that’s as nutritious as it is relaxing. The natural sugars in bananas also help increase serotonin levels, which can boost melatonin production. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or just need something to help you sleep, a banana smoothie is a tasty, natural solution.
Iced Golden Milk Latte: A Cooling, Relaxing Drink
Golden milk is a warm, comforting drink made with turmeric, coconut milk, and black pepper. However, if you prefer a cool beverage in the evening, an iced golden milk latte is the perfect solution. Turmeric contains curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory and calming properties that help ease the mind and promote relaxation.
The addition of coconut milk adds a creamy texture that’s both soothing and hydrating. For an extra boost, top it with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg. This refreshing iced version is perfect for a cozy, relaxing night, especially if you’re looking for something a little different than your usual bedtime tea.
Peppermint Tea: A Digestive and Relaxing Aid
Peppermint tea is widely known for its digestive benefits, but it also has a relaxing effect on the body, making it a perfect pre-bedtime drink. The menthol in peppermint helps relax the muscles and ease tension, which can help you feel more comfortable as you prepare for sleep.
A cup of peppermint tea can soothe both your stomach and your mind, making it ideal for those who experience digestive issues before bed or just want a calm, peaceful night’s rest. Enjoy it after dinner to support both digestion and relaxation, or simply sip it as a nighttime treat.