Good sleep is on the wish list for many of us, especially when it can be achieved through natural remedies like a warm, soothing herbal tea before bed. Many people have had success with chamomile tea and improved sleep. If you’re considering making chamomile tea a part of your bedtime ritual, here’s what we know about its effect on your beauty.
Note. The contents of informational purposes only, but should not be construed as medical advice, nor should it replace the medical advice and supervision of a qualified professional. If you think you may have any sleep disorders or illness, contact your doctor immediately.
Chamomile (Matricaria recuita) is a flowering plant related to the daisy. Its name means “earth apple” in Greek, reflecting its light apple flavor, and there are two types, German and Roman. [1]
A warm drink before bed can help you relax and lower your blood pressure before bed. But chamomile is thought to help with sleep and other things because its flower extracts and essential oils contain over 120 biologically active compounds such as:[1]
In addition, some researchers believe that chamomile’s sleep-promoting effects are due to its compound apigenin, which binds to GABA receptors in the brain to help reduce anxiety and promote calmness. These are the same receptors that bind to benzodiazepines (common anti-anxiety drugs). [2][3] While additional research is always helpful, some studies have tested the effects of chamomile on sleep.
While the anecdotal evidence for the effects of chamomile tea on sleep is compelling, there are few studies available and more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of chamomile tea in improving sleep quality and duration.
For centuries, chamomile has been used as a natural remedy for almost every ailment. Apart from sleep, some of its other historical uses include digestive disorders, muscle spasms, anxiety, cramps, menstrual discomfort, skin irritation, headaches, and fever.
Chamomile contains a compound called coumarin, which is a natural blood thinner. Therefore, it should not be used by people taking prescription anticoagulants such as Coumadin (warfarin). This also means that it is wise to avoid chamomile for at least two weeks before and after any surgery. [14] [15]
In addition, chamomile is a close relative of ragweed and chrysanthemum, which are common environmental allergens. It is also best to avoid chamomile if you have an allergic reaction to these plants.
Finally, chamomile products can have a mild stimulating effect on the uterus. One study found it to be effective for inducing labor in post-term pregnancies, but this should not be done in the first trimester. [16]
It is best to check with your health care provider before adding chamomile or any other herbal tea or dietary supplement to your daily routine, especially if you are pregnant or taking any medications.
Making chamomile tea is easy. Simply steep a bag of chamomile tea or dried chamomile flowers in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Remove the tea bag or flowers and enjoy your bubble tea in a mug. Some people like to add cinnamon, lemon, ginger, or orange zest to their chamomile tea. If you don’t like the taste of chamomile, you can also brew it with other teas such as jasmine, black, green, or hibiscus.
There is no standard dosage for chamomile. Most studies using chamomile cover a wide range, from 200 to 1100 mg per day for up to eight weeks. Overall, chamomile is probably safe when used in the amounts found in regular tea bags. [17] So, for starters, it’s a good idea to brew a bag of chamomile tea in a cup of hot tea and see if it helps you sleep.
Chamomile tea is often described as having a mild floral aroma with a hint of apple. Some also find it a bit like hay with a bitter aftertaste.
In addition to prepared chamomile tea, the herb is sold as dried flowers, supplements, extracts, and topical formulations. The most common way to use chamomile is to drink it as a hot herbal tea.
Some people like to take encapsulated chamomile or flower extracts or apply chamomile essential oil to the skin. Please note that there is no standard dosage for chamomile in any form. There have been reports of skin irritation when applied topically, so further research into alternative routes of application is needed. [18][19]
Chamomile tea is a popular drink that has been enjoyed for centuries for its flavor and potential healing properties. Many people find that chamomile tea helps them fall asleep when they use chamomile tea as part of a relaxation routine. While there is no standard recommendation for using chamomile tea as a sleep aid, some evidence does support its effectiveness. It also has a low risk of side effects for most healthy people. The best way to find out if chamomile tea is right for you is to make yourself a warm cup before bed.
Post time: May-15-2023