Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is a flowering herb that has been used for centuries to support a variety of health conditions. The tea has been shown to help with pain, sleep, digestion and more.
Studies have also found that chamomile may boost your immune system and could even aid in weight loss. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of this herb on your body.
1. Soothes the Senses
Chamomile is an aromatic herb that helps calm the senses. Its scent is calming and soothing, so much so that it’s often used in aromatherapy to help relieve stress, anxiety and insomnia.
It can also be used to create a relaxing massage oil that will relieve tension in the body and ease headaches and sinus congestion. To make your own chamomile essential oil, simply mix a few drops with a teaspoon of coconut or sweet almond oil and apply to the skin for a relaxing treatment that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.
The soothing properties of chamomile come from its ability to stimulate GABA receptors in the brain, which in turn decreases stress and anxiety. Additionally, it can help reduce inflammation in the body by blocking the release of prostaglandin E2 and decreasing histamine production.
Several studies have shown that chamomile is effective at relieving symptoms of anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic attacks. In a double-blind, randomized control trial, participants who took pharmaceutical-grade chamomile extract three times per day reported improved mood and reduced anxiety and sleepiness.
In addition, chamomile may be beneficial in relieving smooth muscle spasms associated with gastrointestinal disorders like irritable bowel syndrome and ulcers. However, more research is needed to confirm the efficacy of chamomile as a pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory and overall healing agent.
In fact, chamomile may be one of the best natural remedies for a variety of health conditions, including heart disease, cancer, menstrual problems and indigestion. You can find a range of chamomile products at your local health food store or online, from herbal tea to skincare. For example, our Teatulia(r) Chamomile Herbal Tea is a deliciously calming herbal blend of chamomile and other herbs with a touch of sweet honeybush, apple and cinnamon.
2. Helps with Insomnia
Chamomile has been known as a sleep-inducing herb for centuries, and a number of studies have shown that it can help reduce insomnia. Some people may also find that chamomile helps them fall asleep more quickly and improves their quality of sleep.
The sedative properties of chamomile can be especially helpful for those who have trouble falling or staying asleep, and it can even improve the quality of sleep by promoting longer REM sleep, which is associated with feeling refreshed in the morning. It can also boost melatonin production, which is important for normalizing your sleep cycle.
Another potential benefit of chamomile is its ability to help ease symptoms of anxiety and depression, which can be linked to sleeplessness. It contains compounds that attach to GABA receptors in the brain, which are known to reduce anxiety and promote a sense of relaxation.
While there aren’t a lot of studies on chamomile tea’s ability to help with insomnia, there is some anecdotal evidence that drinking it before bed can have an effect. It’s best to make a cup of chamomile tea at least one hour before bed, and you can use it as part of a routine that includes other sleep-promoting rituals such as meditation, journaling or reading.
To prepare a cup of chamomile tea, add about 1 teaspoon to 8 ounces of hot water and steep for two to five minutes. It’s also possible to drink chamomile as a tincture or capsule, though these should be used under the guidance of a doctor.
The key to maximizing the benefits of chamomile is to purchase a high-quality product that contains a high dose of the active ingredient, apigenin. It’s worth noting that chamomile supplements are not regulated by the FDA, so it’s important to look for third-party testing and clinical studies before deciding to try them.
3. Lowers Inflammation
Chamomile is an excellent source of antioxidants, which lower inflammation in the body. It contains a number of compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects, including apigenin and chamazulene.
It also has antispasmodic properties, which help ease muscle pain and cramping in the gastrointestinal tract. It is also thought to reduce the production of prostaglandin hormones, which cause inflammation in the body.
Some studies have found that chamomile can also help prevent the growth of certain types of cancer, such as prostate and breast cancer. This is probably due to its apigenin content, which reduces inflammation and prevents enzymes that cause cancer cells to die.
The plant also has antimicrobial properties, which help fight bacteria and infections. This can reduce the risk of infections like thrush and yeast infection. It may even improve the health of your digestive tract, especially if you have a history of gastric ulcers or other gastrointestinal issues.
This herb is not a very high-calorie food, but it’s a good source of vitamins B12, D, E and minerals such as iron and copper. It also contains a small amount of protein, which is essential for proper digestion and overall health.
Drinking chamomile tea can help reduce the risk of heart disease and strokes by preventing blood clots from forming in the arteries and veins. This is because clots form when platelets stick together, which can lead to blockage and plaque formation in the arteries.
People with a history of severe allergies to ragwort, daisy, chrysanthemum, or marigold should avoid chamomile because it can trigger an allergic reaction, also known as anaphylaxis. It’s also possible that chamomile could interact with drugs, such as warfarin, so you should talk to your doctor before you take it.
4. Reduces Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
Many women experience menstrual pain, and this type of discomfort can interfere with daily activities. Fortunately, there are plenty of natural drinks that can help relieve menstrual pain.
In particular, chamomile tea can help reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. This is because chamomile contains hippurate and glycine, both of which can relax your uterus and reduce the pain and cramps you feel during your period.
You can also use a heating pad to help ease cramps and soothe your uterus. These pads are often available in drugstores, and they can be very effective at easing period pains.
If your period doesn’t improve with these methods, you can always speak to your doctor. They can prescribe pain relievers and other medication that may help.
Some women have found that drinking a cup of chamomile tea before their periods starts can help decrease the pain and cramps they experience. However, if you have high blood pressure or heart disease, it’s best to speak with your doctor before trying this remedy.
Studies show that chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties, which may also help reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. Research suggests that chronic inflammation is associated with a number of health conditions, including cancer and heart disease.
Another study suggests that chamomile can also help improve sleep quality and daytime functioning. A 28-day study on insomnia patients found that 270 mg of chamomile taken twice daily improved their sleeping patterns.
As you can see, chamomile has a lot of benefits. In particular, it can be used to reduce pain and discomfort caused by menstrual cramps, lower inflammation in your body, and improve your sleeping habits. It’s an easy way to start feeling better and getting more rest.
5. Helps with Sore Throat
A sore throat can be one of the most debilitating symptoms of a cold. And while many people will immediately reach for a bottle of cough syrup, there are some at-home remedies that may help relieve sore throat pain and speed up the healing process.
Chamomile, for example, has antibacterial and antioxidant properties that can combat infections like colds and the flu. It also helps lubricate the throat, which can lessen soreness and hoarseness. You can inhale a cup of chamomile tea, or make it into a tincture to drink as a mouth rinse.
Ginger, on the other hand, has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can soothe a sore throat and reduce swelling. This ingredient is often used in curries, but you can also steep it into a tea to soothe your throat.
Slippery elm is another antispasmodic herb that can alleviate sore throats and dry coughs. It secretes a gel-like substance called mucilage that coats the throat and soothes it.
Licorice, on the other hand, has antiviral and antimicrobial properties that can help fight illnesses that cause sore throats. It can also soften sore throats caused by a cough, according to Healthline.
If you’re looking for a sweet-tasting way to ease sore throat pain, try drinking licorice root tea. You can also add it to a lemon tea to help break up mucus.
Lastly, ginger is a popular remedy for indigestion and sore throat. The spice has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, according to Healthline. It can also be paired with honey for extra relief.
