During my postpartum days, sleep felt like a distant memory. Ironically, even when my babies were asleep, I found myself wide awake, anxiously anticipating their next feeding. My body was exhausted, but my mind refused to shut off. I knew I needed a nighttime routine—something to signal to my brain that it was time to rest. That’s when I started exploring natural sleep aids, and one of the most surprising (and effective) remedies I discovered was banana peel tea.
Banana peels are rich in magnesium and potassium, two essential minerals that help relax muscles and support deep sleep. Unlike store-bought sleep aids, this tea felt like a gentle nudge toward rest rather than an abrupt knockout. To enhance the calming effects, I started adding culinary lavender—a flower long known for its ability to soothe the nervous system and promote relaxation. The combination of banana peel and lavender creates a naturally sweet, floral tea that eases both body and mind.
Whether you're struggling with occasional restlessness or just looking for a cozy, natural way to unwind, I highly recommend giving it a try.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe organic banana (peel on, washed thoroughly)
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp culinary lavender
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional, for warmth and flavor)
- 1 tsp honey (optional, for sweetness)
Directions
- Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a small pot.
- Cut the banana in half and place it (peel included) into the boiling water.
- Add the culinary lavender and cinnamon stick (optional).
- Reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a mug, add honey if desired, and enjoy about 30-60 minutes before bed.
