What is Chamomile?
Chamomile is a daisy-like flowering herb from the Asteraceae family, which also includes sunflowers, echinacea, and marigold. Renowned as a caffeine-free relaxing herb, chamomile is popular in herbal teas and aromatherapy. Chamomile oil is widely used in cosmetics and aromatherapy applications.
What is Chamomile Tea?
Chamomile is most commonly prepared as herbal tea, made from the plant's flowers and buds. After being harvested, the flowers are dried, with the white petals fading to a pale yellow or sometimes falling off the yellow flower head, which is the plant's most distinctive feature. Chamomile tea is also sold in teabags, containing powdered chamomile flowers, either in pure form or mixed with other well-known medicinal herbs.
Health Benefits of Chamomile Tea
Drinking chamomile tea soothes the nervous system, promoting relaxation and better sleep. It contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to specific receptors in the brain, potentially encouraging sleepiness. For those struggling with insomnia, enjoying a cup of chamomile tea before bed is worth trying.
The antibacterial properties of chamomile strengthen the immune system, helping to prevent colds, combat harmful bacteria and viruses, and fight seasonal flu.
A warm cup of chamomile tea can relieve nasal congestion and soothe a sore throat. Additionally, inhaling the steam from chamomile tea may help alleviate a runny nose and throat irritation.
Chamomile tea may help lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. It can significantly reduce fasting blood sugar levels and may prevent spikes in blood sugar after meals.
This tea is an ideal choice for relaxation and stress relief. Drinking one or two cups of chamomile tea can reduce stress and anxiety, thanks to its warm and calming nature.
Chamomile tea is also effective for treating various digestive issues, such as gas, indigestion, diarrhea, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and motion sickness. It is particularly beneficial for relieving bloating and preventing stomach ulcers.
Chamomile tea can also be applied topically to promote healthy skin. Its antioxidant properties enhance skin health. Used tea bags can be refrigerated and applied to the eyes to reduce puffiness and lighten dark circles.
The antioxidants in chamomile tea help improve skin tone and fade acne scars, giving the skin a brighter appearance.
Chamomile tea possesses pain-relieving and antispasmodic properties. Drinking it for a month may reduce menstrual cramps and alleviate the anxiety and discomfort associated with period pain.
Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities can soothe skin irritations caused by conditions like eczema and rosacea. When applied topically, chamomile may also speed up wound healing.
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