South Africa is facing a growing sleep crisis, with research suggesting around one in 14 adults struggles with sleep disorders such as insomnia.
High stress levels, environmental disruptions and excessive screen time are all contributing factors – but while modern life could be the cause, often solutions can be found in nature.
“Sleep deprivation is more than just an inconvenience; it affects your mental and physical well-being as well,” explains Mbali Mapholi, specialist dietitian and Tetley partner.
“Mood, concentration and productivity are all connected to sleep, with health concerns such as obesity, heart disease, diabetes and depression also understood to be linked to poor sleep.”
She says natural dietary supplements such as chamomile tea can play a powerful role in improving sleep quality. “While there’s no single solution to poor sleep, building a consistent routine that incorporates natural elements can make a meaningful difference over time.”
Natural products to aid in sleep
Chamomile
Mapholi says this is one of the most widely recognised natural sleep aids, as it contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to receptors in the brain to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety: “It’s gentle, caffeine-free and ideal as part of a nightly wind-down ritual, enjoyed as a soothing cup of tea.”
Lavender
“Lavender is known for its calming scent and has been shown to reduce heart rate and blood pressure while promoting relaxation,” says Mapholi. “It can be used in essential oils, dotted on your pillow or even infused into warm baths to create a soothing pre-sleep environment.”
Magnesium
“This essential mineral plays a key role in relaxing muscles and calming the nervous system,” she notes. “Magnesium also helps regulate melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep, and can be found in foods like leafy greens, nuts, seeds and whole grains, or taken as a supplement where needed.”
While natural sleep supplements are beneficial, Mapholi says they must be combined with small lifestyle changes that better promote sleep. “Creating a consistent sleep schedule and minimising screen time before bed are simple ways to create a better sleep environment.
“I also believe in establishing a calming ritual such as a warm bath with lavender oils and enjoying a cup of Tetley Chamomile Tea before bed. This not only delivers the benefits of natural ingredients but also creates a behavioural cue for the body to slow down. Over time, these small habits can make a meaningful difference in both falling asleep and staying asleep.”
Introducing Tetley’s fresh take on chamomile
Recognising the growing demand for natural, convenient sleep solutions, Tetley has expanded its pure chamomile range to include flavoured chamomile blends, offering South Africans more ways to unwind.
The range now includes:
- • Tetley Pure Chamomile – a classic, caffeine-free infusion known for its calming properties, making it the perfect night-time companion.
- • Tetley Vanilla Mint Flavoured Chamomile – a soothing blend of creamy vanilla and refreshing mint notes layered over calming chamomile for a comforting bedtime ritual.
- • Tetley Orange Flavoured Chamomile – a vibrant, citrus-infused chamomile blend that uplifts the senses while promoting relaxation.
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