13 Soothing Chamomile Tea Benefits That Will Help You Relax and De-Stress
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Chamomile tea is a well-known beverage for increasing calmness and decreasing stress. It is an herbal tea made from dried chamomile flowers that release a sweet, mild taste. Free from caffeine, the tea is an alternative to black or green tea. Chamomile extracts have been used since ancient times to treat various health ailments.
Chamomile tea includes a fragrant chemical compound, chamazulene, with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antispasmodic properties that benefit overall health. The richness of antioxidants is essential in diminishing the risk of numerous diseases. The health benefits of chamomile tea are not limited to soothing and refreshing, and here are 13 such diverse benefits of chamomile tea.
1. Promotes Sound Sleep
Chamomile tea is best known for de-stressing the nervous system and promoting better sleep. Because it is free from caffeine, it is best to consume it before bed. However, proper evidence regarding the usefulness of chamomile tea for insomnia and anxiety is blurry. A study on chamomile tea's effectiveness suggested that it could only provide mild proof of its impact on insomnia and anxiety.
This implies that chamomile tea is best suited for generating sound sleep and diminishing insomnia to a certain extent. Poor sleep quality contributes to anxiety and depressive risks.
2. Boosts the Immune System to Fight Infection Relating Cold
Improved immunity leads to a robust defense mechanism in the body, fighting infections and keeping you away from colds and fevers. Research conducted with the help of 14 individuals who consumed 5 cups of tea daily for 14 days resulted in a meaningful increase in hippurate and glycine in their urine. Both of the compounds are known to have massive antibacterial elements.
Consume a hot glass of chamomile tea, three to four cups daily, to get relief from the cold. Inhaling the steam from chamomile is another way to ease nasal congestion, sore throats, and runny noses.
3. Relieves Muscles Spasms and Menstrual cramps in Women
Due to chamomile tea's pain-relieving and antispasmodic properties, it has been shown to reduce muscle contractions and menstrual cramps in women. Drinking a hot cup of chamomile tea twice a day before the beginning of periods and during the period days is known to lower cramps and anxiety.
Period pain could be unimaginable. The pain differs among women, however, period pain and hormonal imbalances during those four days are common to all. This tea helps to soothe the brain and make you feel relaxed. This is possible through chamomile tea's anti-inflammatory, soothing, and anti-anxiety qualities.
4. Controls Blood Sugar Levels
High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, is a condition where the sugar in the blood is massive. Chamomile tea not only helps to balance blood sugar levels but also battles oxidative stress, which might lead to diabetes-related issues. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory property controls damage to the cells of the pancreas, which occurs due to heightened blood sugar levels.
A study based on the effectiveness of chamomile tea on glycemic control and serum lipid profile in type 2 diabetes patients concluded with positive results. Drinking three cups of tea for eight weeks reduced insulin and cholesterol levels among those who followed the survey.
5. Protects Against Certain Types of Cancer and Related Issues
The antioxidants in chamomile tea have been associated with reducing certain types of cancer. Apigenin, a flavone found in tea, has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and chemo-preventive benefits. The properties of apigenin are proven to treat specific cancer cells, including those in the breast, prostate, uterus, and digestive tract.
Another study bases its argument on chamomile tea preventing thyroid cancer. The tea also assisted in cancer-related effects such as skin complications, depression, and vomiting. It further improved their diet and appetite. The tea also benefitted in improving the appetite of cancer patients.
6. Improves Digestive Health
A healthy digestive tract is the cornerstone of overall health. The presence of antispasmodics in chamomile tea helps to remove any contractions within the body. It extends to the stomach and intestines as well. It also includes sesquiterpene lactones, secondary metabolites that activate the pancreas to release digestive enzymes necessary for food breakdown.
A warm chamomile tea after a heavy meal can support proper digestion and relieve gut problems. The tea is known to decrease the signs of acid reflux, remove gastric and bloating, and improve overall digestive health.
7. Reduces Symptoms of Anxiety
Chamomile tea can also help with the symptoms of anxiety. This may be the result of chamomile's effect on better sleep. Poor sleep is associated with anxiety. Anxiety and depression are used interchangeably. People suffering from such conditions experience a deep, uncontrolled feeling of fear, anxiety, worry, or panic. This tendency may hamper daily activities and overall health.
Chamomile tea is known for its soothing effects, which may help minimize the symptoms of anxiety and depression to a certain extent. Drinking at least one to four cups of tea is advisable to reap the tea's benefits.
8. Might Aid in Weight loss
While there is no concurrent proof that chamomile tea helps to lose weight, it can be estimated that its benefits can indirectly help in the weight loss journey. By regulating the digestive system properly and improving the immune system, chamomile tea helps to speed up the metabolism.
Moreover, filled with calcium and potassium, chamomile tea helps to remove toxins from the body. The beverage helps to soothe the stomach and relax it. People trying to lose weight might benefit from this tea as it helps to reduce their appetite. When followed by a healthy diet, managing weight becomes easy.
9. Supports Healthy and Nourished Skin
Two vital factors that can impact the skin are sleep and stress. Proper rest and reduced pressure are perfect for healthy, nourished skin. On the contrary, lack of sleep and massive stress could lead to breakouts, uneven skin tone, and other skin issues.
Chamomile tea can improve skin health from within with its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It can help brighten the complexion, reduce acne, and fade away dark spots. When applied directly to the skin, chamomile helps remove dead skin cells, resulting in glowing, moisturized, and nourished skin.
10. Ease Dry and Inflamed Scalp
The antioxidant in chamomile tea acts as a natural exfoliator, which helps remove dead skin cells from the scalp. Moreover, the tea contains anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that are beneficial in treating dandruff. It also provides relief for itchy scalps caused by dandruff.
The hair benefits of chamomile tea could be enjoyed best when applied tropically. It would help to have chamomile tea, curd, regular shampoo, and conditioner for the hair mask. Make a paste using the tea and plain yogurt, apply the mixture evenly, and let it sit for 30 to 60 minutes. The result is clear, bouncy hair.
11. Reduces Inflammation and Treats Rheumatic
Chamomile is a comforting, floral-herbal tea that has been used to treat various sorts of illnesses, such as colds, coughs, muscle spasms, and others, for a long time. The tea helps to reduce symptoms of inflammation and can aid in the enhancement of the immune system, thereby improving health.
The satisfying effects of chamomile tea are useful for minimizing rheumatic diseases. It is a blanket term that includes various arthritis issues and conditions that impact joints, muscles, bones, ligaments, and tendons. Consuming at least two tea bags of chamomile tea a day for several days could reduce inflammation.
12. Assist in the Liver Detoxification Process
Chamomile tea is generally considered a calming and sleep-inducing tea. However, one of its advantages is to help support liver functions. The sesquiterpene lactone present in the tea helps the liver with the detoxification process.
Moreover, chamomile tea is beneficial to fight free radicals and maintain a healthy liver. Oxidative stress causes fatty acid oxidization and promotes the growth of hepatic tumor necrosis. Consuming chamomile tea could help revert the issue. Several other herbal teas that help detoxify the liver are ginger and turmeric tea, peppermint tea, green tea, tulsi tea, lemon tea, and more.
13. Chamomile Tea Bags to Soothe Eyes
Traditionally, chamomile tea was used to get rid of eye infections, tear-duct blockage, and pinkeye, among others. The flavonoids help to reduce inflammation. Similarly, the anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile tea pacify dry and irritated eyes. Whenever you suffer from dry eyes, remember to place cold chamomile tea bags over the eyes to reduce the symptoms and increase relief.
Dry eyes are the result of less tear production or quick tear evaporation. Some other popular teas to minimize redness and uneasiness in the eyes are cold tea bags of green tea and rooibos tea.
Nutritional Value of Chamomile Tea
Chamomile is one of the oldest medicinal herbs used to treat various human ailments, including fever, tenderness, muscle contractions, cognitive functioning, insomnia, ulcers, wounds, gut infections, rheumatic pain, and others. The beneficial properties of chamomile tea make it a safe and easily absorbable tea. Just like any other herbal tea, the benefit of this tea can only be obtained through regular consumption.
According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, one cup of brewed chamomile tea or eight oz. Contains the following nutritional facts:
- Carb: 0.47g
- Energy: 2.37 kcal
- Sugar:0
- Fiber: 0
- Calcium: 4.74mg
- Iron: 0.19mg
- Magnesium: 2.37mg
- Potassium: 21.33mg
- Sodium: 2.37mg
- Zinc: 0.09mg
- Vitamin A: 47.4mg
- Carotene, beta: 28.44mcg
- Thiamin:0.02mg
- Riboflavin: 0.01mg
- Folate: 2.37mcg
Easiest Way to Brew Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea uses only the head of the flower while brewing. It has a sweet herbal taste mixed with the notes of crisp apple. The tea generates a yellowish hue with a fresh aroma. Tea made from fresh chamomile flowers leaves a slightly bitter taste than the one prepared from dry chamomile flowers or tea bags. The tea is free from caffeine, making it a healthy option for caffeine-sensitive people.
Here is a simple way you can prepare this relaxing tea in just a few minutes. It is best to consume the tea 30 to 45 minutes before bedtime for better sleep. The body gets enough time to absorb the nutrients and utilize its benefits.
Ingredients:
- Dried chamomile flower or tea bag
- 8 ounces of water
Method:
Simply boil some water, then add a teaspoon of dried chamomile flower to a tea bag in a cup. Pour the water into the cup and let it infuse for 4 to 5 minutes. Strain the tea and enjoy.
Adverse Effects of Chamomile Tea
While chamomile tea is considered safe and healthy tea for all, there are certain groups who might encounter adverse effects after consuming chamomile tea. It is best to avoid the tea as much as possible in such cases.
Chamomile tea is considered unsafe for people with certain conditions, including;
- Allergic reactions to certain flowers, such as chamomile, ragweed, or daisies.
- Medications such as warfarin may interfere with chamomile.
- Chamomile-infused cosmetic products may irritate the eyes and further lead to conjunctivitis.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding persons should avoid chamomile tea, although concrete evidence is lacking in this aspect.
Nonetheless, serious effects of chamomile tea have not been reported yet and it is safe for almost every individual except for those with the above-mentioned conditions.
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