Many drinks can induce sleepiness, but the effect varies depending on the individual and the specific beverage. Some drinks have a reputation for promoting relaxation and sleep, while others might cause drowsiness due to their chemical composition or interaction with medications.
Drinks That May Promote Sleepiness:
Several drinks are often associated with sleepiness, though the scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness varies.
- Chamomile Tea: This herbal tea, derived from the Chamomile flower, is known for its calming properties. [Reference: Chamomile tea. Chamomile is a daisy-like flower that is part of the Asteraceae family. ...]
- Valerian Tea: Valerian root is a common ingredient in sleep aids and teas, often cited for its sleep-promoting effects. [Reference: Valerian tea. ...; Reference: Certain drinks may promote better sleep by calming the mind and body. Herbal teas like chamomile and valerian root, as well as warm milk are popular choices ...]
- Warm Milk: While the myth that warm milk directly causes sleepiness is largely debunked, its warmth and calcium content can contribute to relaxation. [Reference: Warm milk. ...; Reference: Drinking warm milk before bed may help you relax, but there is no evidence that milk makes you sleepy. The drowsiness some people experience ...]
- Almond Milk: Similar to warm milk, almond milk's calming nature might contribute to relaxation before sleep. [Reference: Almond milk. ...]
- Herbal Teas (e.g., Lemon Balm): Certain herbal teas, like those containing lemon balm, possess calming properties potentially leading to drowsiness. [Reference: Herbal Tea with Lemon Balm ...]
- Ashwagandha Tea: Ashwagandha, an adaptogen, is claimed to have calming and stress-reducing effects that may indirectly aid in sleep. [Reference: Ashwagandha tea. Ashwagandha has a reputation for being a powerful medicinal plant. ...]
Drinks That Can Induce Drowsiness (But May Disrupt Sleep Quality):
Some drinks, while making you feel sleepy initially, can negatively impact the quality of your sleep later:
- Alcohol: Alcohol initially induces relaxation and drowsiness. However, research consistently shows that it disrupts sleep architecture later in the night, leading to poor sleep quality and reduced sleep quantity. [Reference: Alcohol has a sedative effect that helps you relax and makes you feel sleepy. It depresses the central nervous system and slows brain...; Reference: Research shows that alcohol actually has a disruptive effect on your sleep the rest of the night and messes with sleep quality and quantity.; Reference: Drinking wine, beer, or hard liquor during the day can make you feel drowsy or lethargic. If you didn't sleep well the night before, even one...]
Important Note: The effect of any drink on sleep depends on individual factors, including sensitivity, underlying health conditions, and medications.
