Chamomile is related to daisies (ragweed and chrysanthemums), so those allergic to any of these plants should avoid this herb. People taking certain medications may want to check with their healthcare provider prior to sipping on Chamomile tea.
Drink chamomile tea to support your metabolism and detox your body. Since this tea does not contain laxatives, your liver and kidneys should be able to do all the detoxifying themselves if you remain healthy.
1. Digestion
Chamomile contains anti-inflammatory compounds (chamazulene and alpha-bisabolol) which may reduce spasms associated with certain digestive conditions, and help improve overall comfort for people suffering from acid reflux or IBS.
Chamazulene and alpha-bisabolol contain antioxidant properties which may protect against oxidative stress, one factor contributing to digestive issues. Furthermore, the soothing properties of chamomile may help calm an upset stomach and may reduce nausea or vomiting.
Chamomile can also offer considerable digestive advantages that help alleviate heartburn and acid reflux symptoms by soothing the gut, which aids overall food digestion as well as short-term discomforts such as indigestion.
Studies conducted on test tube cultures demonstrate the ability of chamomile extracts to kill bacteria, fungus and viruses; inhibit Helicobacter pylori bacteria known to contribute to stomach ulcers; decrease smooth muscle spasms associated with inflammation bowel disease or diverticulitis symptoms and improve them; as well as decrease smooth muscle spasms which may improve their symptoms.
Chamomile may not be safe for all individuals; therefore it is wise to consult your physician before adding chamomile into your diet, particularly if you have health conditions or medications such as for diabetes. Chamomile can interact with some drugs such as those for treating depression; additionally it can trigger allergic reactions in some people with sensitivities to daisies like ragweed and chrysanthemums.
2. Pain Relief
Chamomile is an anti-inflammatory natural remedy, with studies suggesting its potential effectiveness for relieving digestive ailments like stomach ulcers. Studies also indicate chamomile’s capacity to reduce stomach acidity and inhibit the formation of bacteria associated with ulcers as well as reduce inflammation within the digestive tract. Furthermore, phytochemicals present in chamomile could provide additional relief.
Chamomile can provide anti-inflammatory relief for infants who suffer colic, relaxing spasms in their intestines and helping reduce gas and diarrhea symptoms. One study showed that when combined with apple pectin, it helped shorten diarrhea in children while placebo had no noticeable results.
Apigenin, a phenolic compound present in chamomile, has been shown to be an antioxidant with cancer-fighting capabilities that can kill cancer cells in test tubes. Furthermore, apigenin may help improve diabetes care in people by improving glycemic control.
More research needs to be conducted before concluding that chamomile can effectively prevent or treat cancer, but it may be worth including this herb as part of an integrative health approach. Just make sure to speak with your healthcare provider first if taking medications, especially since chamomile is related to ragweed (like asters, daisies and chrysanthemums) which could cause allergies; too much tea consumption can also cause side effects like vomiting or drowsiness.
3. Sleep Aid
Many people enjoy drinking chamomile tea to relax and enhance sleep quality, according to studies. Chamomile may help people fall asleep faster and remain asleep for longer, relieving symptoms of insomnia, anxiety and restlessness or depression; and may ease gastrointestinal discomfort; its compounds, particularly apigenin can relax spasming muscles and reduce intestinal inflammation; also it has been shown that drinking one before bed may reduce nightmares linked to poor quality rest.
Studies indicate that the anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile may also help combat osteoporosis, an illness characterized by weak and fragile bones and an stooped posture. Furthermore, flavonoids found in this herb may also prevent bone cell breakdown while decreasing calcium loss from the body.
Chamomile can be found both as herbal tea and supplements; more research needs to be conducted on its effectiveness and long-term safety. If taking a supplement, make sure it has been third party tested and has an official USP label.
Chamomile tea can be safely enjoyed by most adults; however, pregnant women or those with floral allergies should seek medical advice prior to drinking it in tea form. Also important is consulting your physician prior to consuming any chamomile supplements, especially if taking medications such as warfarin (a blood thinner) or cyclosporine (an immunosuppressant used to prevent rejection of organ transplants).
4. Heart Health
Chamomile tea offers numerous health advantages for your heart, due to its anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidant benefits. Reduced inflammation can assist with chronic health conditions like gastrointestinal pain, arthritis and autoimmune disorders; and its antioxidants have an indirect positive influence on maintaining a healthy blood pressure level.
Chamomile contains an active compound known as apigenin that has been scientifically shown to slow cancer cell growth and protect against numerous types of tumors. Numerous studies have demonstrated its protective effects against colon, breast, prostate, ovarian and cervical cancer as well as lower rates of inflammation bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome.
Chamomile can also help improve digestion and alleviate colic symptoms in infants. In one recent study, parents reported that chamomile tea combined with apple pectin helped shorten infant colic episodes more than placebo treatments did.
Drinking chamomile tea regularly may also help manage diabetes by lowering your blood sugar levels. A study revealed that those with diabetes who consumed three servings per day of chamomile tea experienced lower average blood sugar and reduced triglyceride levels after eight weeks.
Before drinking chamomile tea, it is wise to consult your healthcare provider first. Being part of the ragweed family, people allergic to that plant could find their symptoms intensified when exposed to this herbal remedy. Furthermore, warfarin (a blood thinner) and cyclosporine (used to prevent organ rejection after transplants) could interact with it and alter how you respond.
