Herbal teas are more than a gentle alternative to English Breakfast or the all-mighty green variety. When prepared with quality herbs they have a fresh flavor that surpasses the average cup of Red Zinger and they can also provide relief from a variety of ailments. 

• Lemon balm helps to reduce tension and anxiety.
• Passionflower is a natural sedative. It can help insomnia, especially if brought on by anxiety or nervousness.
• Peppermint is famous for its ability to fight queasiness, nausea and vomiting. Only peppermint has this power. For stomach problems steer clear of spearmint, wintergreen, etc.
• Rosemary helps treat stress headaches by keeping blood vessels dilated.
• Sage may help sore throats and boost the immune system. It has also been linked to reduction of night sweats.
• Thyme relaxes the bronchial spasms that trigger coughs.

It's easy to make homemade herbal tea. Prevention has the details.

Not interested in DYI tea, Yogi Tea has a big selection of healing teas with clear ingredient lists. Yogi's herb glossary is one of my favorite herb resources.

(Photo: BBC)