Chamomile is an herbal depressant and can instigate allergies. Image Credit: simarik/iStock/GettyImages

Celestial Seasonings' Sleepytime Tea is a much-loved nighttime remedy utilizing an herbal blend that includes chamomile, spearmint and tillia flowers, among others. Also known as linden flowers, tilia's benefits are thought to include treating colds, inflammation, anxiety and infections.

Tip Sleepytime Tea includes chamomile, spearmint, lemongrass, tilia flowers, blackberry leaves, orange blossoms, hawthorn and rosebuds. Some tea drinkers, however, may experience an allergic reaction, or a drop in blood pressure or sugar levels.

Get Calm with Sleepytime Tea

Sleepytime Tea was created to calm and soothe the system before bedtime, using an all-natural blend of herbs. While there are benefits to drinking herbal teas, they can also potentially create side effects in some individuals with allergies or sensitivities. For example, while chamomile contains flavonoids, terpenoids, antioxidants and is caffeine-free, there is a slim possibility of cross-reactivity to chamomile among those with allergies to ragweed.

According to the Mayo Clinic, herbal supplements and plants have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Generally, herbal supplements haven't been subjected to the same scientific scrutiny, and aren't as strictly regulated as medications.

These natural remedies can have medication-like effects, making teas strong enough to carry some risks. If you have any concerns at all, or experience regular health issues, be sure to contact your doctor before imbibing. They will advise you on the best course of action.

Tilia Flowers, Friend or Foe?

There are benefits to drinking flower teas, although tilia flowers have been speculated to (in rare cases) cause cardiac damage when used frequently and long-term. Because blackberry leaves are high in tannins, they can cause an upset stomach or even vomiting. Pair Sleepytime Tea with a small snack if your stomach is on the sensitive side. Spearmint may lower blood pressure or blood sugar levels; if you're a diabetic or have blood pressure concerns, consult with a physician before drinking this tea.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine explains that an herb is a plant, or plant part, used for its scent, flavor or therapeutic properties. Herbal medicines such as teas are one type of dietary supplement that people use to maintain, or improve, their health. While many people believe that products labeled "natural" are always safe and good for them, this isn't always the case. Some herbs can also interact with prescription, or over-the-counter, medicines.

The Benefits of Drinking Tea

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics explains that studies that reviewed the relationship of black tea intake and heart health reported decreased incidence of heart attack. On the flip side, drinking green tea was associated with lower total cholesterol, LDL and triglycerides, along with higher HDL (or "good" cholesterol) levels. This supports the idea that there are benefits to drinking one type of tea over another type.