Chamomile tea

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita L.), commonly known as German chamomile, is an important medicinal and aromatic plant. The plant belongs to the daisy (Asteraceae) family and the flowers have a characteristic herbaceous fragrance. The dried flowers of chamomile contain many terpenoids and flavonoids contributing to its medicinal properties.

Common on many family tables throughout Europe, chamomile tea offers a delicate flavor with a fruity aroma reminiscent of apples. The flavor of chamomile tea depends mainly upon elusive aromas of the flowers that are dependent on the characteristic quantity and composition of the essential oil.

Chamomile tea is one of the world’s most popular herbal teas and about a million cups are consumed every day. Tea bags of chamomile are also available in the market, containing chamomile flower powder, either pure or blended with other popular medicinal herbs. Chamomile tea can be consumed any time of day, but may be best consumed in the evening for its relaxing effects and potential sleep benefits.

The tea infusion is used as a wash or gargle for inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat. Chamomile tea used by urban African-American community in Michigan as folk remedies. It also used for treating colic, practiced by the caregivers.

Chamomile is used widely to treat children who have GI disorders such as colic, dyspepsia, and diarrhea and to treat skin conditions such as dermatitis.

It has been claimed that consumption of chamomile tea boosts the immune system and helps fight infections associated with colds. Drinking chamomile was associated with a significant increase in urinary levels of hippurate and glycine, which have been associated with increased antibacterial activity. In another study, chamomile relieved hypertensive symptoms and decreased the systolic blood pressure significantly, increasing urinary output.

Chamomile has been used since the time of Hippocrates, the father of medicine, in 500 BC. The ancient Greeks, Egyptians, and Romans regularly used the chamomile flowers to treat erythema and xerosis caused because of dry weather and as a calming beverage in the form of tea or tisane.
Chamomile tea

Chamomile tea for anxiety

A small, beautiful and gentle plant, chamomile has long been use as an everyday tea but is equally value for its powerful medicinal properties. A warm cup of chamomile tea before going to bed can help to fall asleep.

A favorite herb for children, chamomile has been use to treat children’s colic, nervous stress, infections, and stomach disorders.

Chamomile tea is calming and supports sleep. It is proven to reduce anxiety, nightmares, and insomnia. One active ingredient called apigenin reduces locomotor activity, which disrupts sleep in restless sleepers.

Also, the first controlled study of the use of chamomile extract showed that it has a moderate effect in reducing anxiety in people with general anxiety disorder. Besides its excellent anti-anxiety properties, chamomile is an antispasmoic and can help alleviate menstrual cramps.

Chamomile has sweet flavor with slightly bitter aftertones. The longer the herb is left to steep, the more bitter it becomes.
Chamomile tea for anxiety