Raise your hand if you have heard of Chamomile tea? If you by any chance didn't raise your hand, your might be living under a rock. Chamomile is so well known, not only by herbalists, but pretty much by every person that has dabbled in natural health supplements.
German Chamomile is a daisy like flower in the Asteraceae family that is found almost everywhere around the world now. With a smell similar to apples, this herbal flower boasts notes of honey and sweetness when drank as an herbal tea.
At one point in history, chamomile was known as a "cure all". This saying may possibly come from the fact that chamomile contains 120 chemical compounds via its essential oils and flowers; that all promote serious health benefits! Today, this flowering herb is famous for managing insomnia, anxiety and digestive upset.
Digestive Issues
Many of the chemical compounds in Chamomile have the ability to ease digestive issues. Chamomile possess anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-irritant capabilities. These can add up to some major relief in upset stomach, excess gas, inflammation caused by IBS and reduction of muscle spasms.
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Anxiety
Studies have shown that not only can chamomile reduce anxiety but may also act similar to an antidepressant. Apigenin is a chemical constituent found in chamomile that contains anti-anxiety benefits for persons with mild generalized anxiety. Chamomile has a way of creating a calming affect on the body that is unmatched in natural medicine.
Insomnia
Chamomile is most famously known for it's use as an alternative therapy for sleep promotion. Sleep disorders are becoming more common, affecting up to 50% of the adult population. This flowering herb is so popular because it proven to have sedative and anti-anxiety effects. Reducing anxiety can easily solve a restless nights sleep. The chemical compound, apigenin, found in chamomile as proven through research studies to shorten the amount of time it takes to fall asleep and prolong sleep in general.
Other Possible Benefits
Chamomile may also aid in treatment of eczema due to its anti-inflammatory properties and can also be applied topically to wounds and used orally as a rinse for inflamed gums.
Side Effects
Chamomile is a member of the daisy family, therefore if you are aware of or think you may be allergic to daisies, ragweed or chrysanthemum it would be a wise choice to steer clear of this herbal tea. Chamomile has natural blood-thinning effects and should not be combined with blood thinning medication or taken two week before any surgery. All herbal medicines should be used as a supplement and not as a replacement for treatment of various ailments. Always talk with your medical care provider concerning medical treatments and advice.
Happy Sipping!
- Palm Beach Herbal Tea Company