6 Proven Health Benefits Of Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea is a popular beverage that also offers a variety of health benefits. Chamomile is an herb that comes from the daisy-like flowers of the Asteraceae plant family. Chamomile is considered a safe plant and has been used in many cultures for stomach ailments and as a mild sedative. Some studies, primarily using combinations of chamomile with other plants, show it may have health benefits.

There is no standard dose of chamomile. Studies have used between 220 milligrams to 1,600 milligrams daily in capsule form. The most common form is a tea, and some people drink one to four cups daily.

To make chamomile tea, steep a chamomile tea bag or chamomile flowers in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes in a mug covered with a saucer. Then, drink the infusion when it has cooled to the point it is safe to drink.

# Improves sleep quality

For eons and eons, Chamomile tea has been synonymous with sleep whether we’re talking prompting sleep, bettering the quality of sleep, or curing insomnia. Needless to say, extensive research and studies have been done and proved the same based on randomized group experiments, human trials etc.

It is said that the antioxidants in Chamomile (apigenin in this case), binds to receptors in the brain thus inducing sleep. The majority of the studies have been done as randomized controlled trials and while keeping other factors as consistent as possible, those that consumed Chamomile tea at least 45 minutes before snoozing slept better.

Although more studies should prove the effectiveness of these facts, the already existing research is fool-proof. The fact that this herb is 100% caffeine-free also of course helps a lot!

# Contains antioxidants that help reduce the risk of cancer

The importance of antioxidants is well known and although our body internally produces them to combat and neutralize cell-damaging free radicals, the intake of antioxidants through our food becomes very essential. Primarily, high oxidative stress levels in the body due to certain types of food cause a significant influx in such free radicals.

Chamomile tea happens to be absolutely loaded with such antioxidants and terpenoids particularly apigenin, quercetin, patuletin, and luteolin. Several studies have shown a substantial impact of these compounds on the health of individuals.

Cancer-causing cells and mutations in DNA are a result of an influx of free radicals in the body. At a point where the innately produced antioxidants aren’t enough to stop cell damage, ingestion from other sources becomes crucial. When the external source is as harmless as Chamomile tea, it’s certainly a win-win.

Many extensive studies have shown that drinking a few cups of Chamomile a day may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer such as thyroid cancer, breast cancer, liver cancer etc. Most definitely not a cure for cancer, but including Chamomile in your diet may help combat the occurrence of the same.

# Helps control diabetes

In diabetic patients, maintaining and controlling glycemic index is vital to keep blood sugar in check. In addition to this, oxidative stress caused by certain foods, obesity, smoking, alcohol etc. is a simple juncture to Type-2 diabetes. Consuming Chamomile tea has been shown to reduce levels of glycosylated hemoglobin and insulin. Even a short term intake of this tea helped improve glycemic control and reduced oxidative stress notably.

The anti-inflammatory properties of flavonoids present in Chamomile tea also help avoid damage to the pancreatic cells. According to many evidence-based studies, apigenin shows anti-inflammatory properties giving Chamomile a serious edge in health aid.

# Helps with anxiety and depression

Many studies have shown the effects of Chamomile tea on anxiety and depressing stating that this herb helps control the intensity of these disorders. Although inconclusive, some randomized trials have shown promise and evidence of the same.

# Helps with digestion

Owing to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties of Chamomile, studies indicated the effect of this herb concerning stomach ulcers, nausea and digestion. Most studies have been positive in this regard.

# Helps with oral health

Terpenoids and flavonoids present in Chamomile have been shown to have antimicrobial, antibacterial properties. Based on this evidence, research has been done and shown a positive effect of Chamomile on oral health and especially in the treatment of oral mucosal lesions.