Chamomile Tea 101: How Chamomile Tea Support Your Health
Chamomile tea is a popular variety of tea that helps with digestion and prevents nausea and cramping. Due to its anti-inflammatory nature, it also treats diarrhea and bloating. Other top health benefits of this tea include the ability to protect the skin, lower stress levels, regulate sleep, and soothe menstrual cramps. It also boosts the immune system.
What is Chamomile Tea?
Derived from the Asteraceae family of plants, the dried chamomile flowers are used for different herbal and natural remedies and healing poultices, as well as its most popular form – tea.
The Spanish name for this tea is Manzanilla tea. These plants come in many forms, so chamomile tea in one part of the world may not be exactly the same as somewhere else, but the fundamental components of the plants are quite similar and provide similar effects.
Studies have found that German chamomile flowers tend to have the strongest concentrations of beneficial compounds and nutrients that can be imparted to those who drink this popular tea on a regular basis. [1]
Apart from the pleasant taste and accessibility of chamomile herbal tea, it has been praised over the years for its health benefits. The presence of flavonoids, sesquiterpenes, and other powerful antioxidants in this tea have significant effects on the human body.
While it is commonly consumed as a beverage, chamomile extract is also used in capsules and aromatherapy oils. [2] Chamomile lotions can also be topically applied in certain cases to get relief from various skin issues. ile baby products such as soaps, shampoos, and baby wipes are popular due to their soothing nature.
According to USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, chamomile tea contains many vitamins and minerals that include potassium, magnesium, calcium, sodium, thiamin, riboflavin, and vitamin A. [3] Other nutrients include folate, iron, and zinc. 1 cup (237 g) of brewed chamomile tea provides 2 kcal of energy, 0.47 g of carbohydrates.
Health Benefits
Let’s take a closer look at some of its major benefits and uses:
Induces Sleep
According to research published by Lawrence Gould (M.D.), et al. in The Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, chamomile tea can be an overall sleep aid, particularly for people who struggle with sleep apnea and restless sleep. [4] Drinking a warm cup of non-caffeinated chamomile tea can help you fall asleep faster and wake up feeling more refreshed. It is recommended for women going through the postpartum period as a supplement for better sleep. Moreover, regular sleep is linked to lowering the chances of Alzheimer’s disease. [5]
Improves Digestion
If you are suffering from stomach irritation, ranging anywhere from mild bloating to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms, chamomile tea can be a major help. According to Kathi J Kemper, MD, MPH, it has anti-inflammatory properties that help ease the twisting nature of your gut and allow for the passage of gas and smoother bowel movements. [6] It also cures stomach ulcer pains and spasms.
Chamomile tea helps to flush out water, liquids, and other wastes from the body, meaning it acts as a diuretic. This property not only aids in weight loss but also improves overall digestion and fights off bloating.
Prevents Cancer
According to research conducted in the Department of Urology & Nutrition, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, antioxidant apigenin present in chamomile fights various cancer cells including cancer of the breast, digestive tract, skin, prostate, and uterus. [7] Studies reveal that it also prevents the development of thyroid cancer. [8]
Reduces Inflammation
The strong antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile are highly effective in treating stomach and intestinal cramps. Consuming manzanilla tea regularly also helps to get rid of problems like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), nausea, muscle spasms, stomach flu, and gastroenteritis.
Manages Diabetes
Research has shown that chamomile tea can be useful for people suffering from diabetes. [9] By helping lower blood sugar levels and regulating the amount of insulin in the blood, the powerful organic chemicals in it help to eliminate massive drops and spikes in blood sugar. [10] [11]
Promotes Heart Health
A research published in the Friedman School of Nutrition Science & Policy, Tufts University, Boston, MA, reveals that chamomile tea helps lower blood pressure and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, making your heart healthy. [12] Another research study reveals that it also prevents the occurrence of various cardiovascular issues. [13]
Boosts Immune System
The phenolic compounds present in chamomile tea helps to strengthen your immune system and ward off infections. [1] The other compounds present in chamomile tea also fights cold, flu, and sinus, ultimately, relieving congestion.
Relieves Stress & Anxiety
One of the most popular uses of manzanilla tea is in the treatment of stress and anxiety. After a long day at work, the warm, soothing nature of this beverage can help increase the levels of serotonin and melatonin in your body. [14] These hormones can successfully eliminate stress and worry.
According to a U.S. Journal, it also provides instant relief from migraines and headaches. [15] while also slowing down your mind and eliminating the classic symptoms of anxiety. 1-2 cups of chamomile tea per day can do a significant help against chronic stress. Research suggests that chamomile tea can also treat the symptoms of depression in postpartum women. [16]
Skin Care
Due to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich nature of chamomile tea, it is not exclusively used as a beverage. Topical application of manzanilla tea cures irritations or skin conditions such as eczema.
It can also significantly improve healing and lessen the appearance of blemishes and wrinkles on the face. [17] By eliminating oxidative stress and boosting the immune response it can do wonders for your skin.
Prevents Osteoporosis
Chamomile extract helps to stimulate the activity of osteoblasts, the cells which build bones. [1] Thus, the tea can help increase bone density, ultimately helping you stay away from the condition of osteoporosis.
Relieves Menstrual Pain
The anti-inflammatory nature of chamomile tea makes this relaxant a popular choice for women dealing with the symptoms of menstruation like bloating, cramping, anxiety, sweating, inability to sleep, and mood swings.
Treats Allergic Reactions
Chamomile tea can help modulate the immune response to allergens in the body. [18] By working as an antihistamine, it can soothe these allergic reactions throughout the body.
Hair Care
Apart from all of the impressive attributes of manzanilla tea, many users claim that it improves the appearance and strength of the hair. According to a paper published in the International Journal of Pharma and Bio Sciences, the anti-inflammatory components found in chamomile can help alleviate irritation on the scalp, the stronger chemicals can fortify the strands of your hair, eliminate dandruff, and generally give your hair a better, silkier look. [19]
Oral Health
Manzanilla tea has the ability to fight oral infections, prevent cavities, and protect teeth and gums. Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe toothaches.
Word of Caution: Caution is advised to pregnant and breastfeeding women as excessive consumption of this tea may result in a miscarriage. [20] According to NIH it can cause allergic reactions and can also lead to drowsiness, eye irritation, vomiting, and nausea, so always drink in moderation. [21]