We drink these herbal teas before bed, but a herbalist warns they may have the opposite effect

When sleep does not come, many people turn first to a cup of herbal tea. Chamomile, lemon balm and valerian are often associated with bedtime, but their effects may not always be as calming as expected.

Herbalist Marius Lasinskas discusses how these plants affect the body and whether some of them can instead increase alertness. He also explains the rules for using medicinal herbs and the mistakes people most often make.

Lasinskas teaches a herbal medicine course at Vytautas Magnus University’s Agriculture Academy for people who want to learn more about the health benefits of herbs.