Chamomile is a flowering plant in the daisy family. Chamomile tea is brewed using only the flower heads of the plant Camellia sinensis. Chamomile tea made with fresh chamomile flowers has fewer bitter undertones than those made with dry chamomile flowers or chamomile tea bags. Chamomile tea is naturally caffeine-free and has long been used as a remedy for insomnia.
“I have to wake up and drink chamomile tea to slow down.”
Janice Dickinson
While chamomile is most often associated with relaxation, this herb has many potential health benefits. Chamomile is a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Chamomile has also been effective in treating anxiety, insomnia, and nausea.
If you’re looking for an herb that can do it all, look no further than chamomile. Read on to learn more about the many health benefits of this underrated powerhouse herb.
What is chamomile?
Chamomile is a plant that has been used medicinally for centuries. Chamomile tea is still one of the most popular herbal teas on the market and chamomile essential oil is commonly used in aromatherapy.
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is a dried flower that can be found pre-packaged at most health food stores. When brewed as a tea, chamomile is considered a relaxant, can help restore insomnia, and is an effective anti-inflammatory agent to relieve indigestion. Chamomile can also be taken in capsule form or as an extract.
Chamomile nutrition facts
Did you know chamomile is not just a fragrant herb in herbal teas? This powerhouse herb is packed with nutrients and has numerous health benefits. Chamomile is a member of the Asteraceae family, including daisies, sunflowers, and artichokes. There are two main types of chamomile: German chamomile (Chamomilla recutita) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile). The flowers and leaves of both types are used to make teas, extracts, and capsules.
Matricaria chamomilla tea is the most popular way to consume this herb. One of the most impressive chamomile nutrition facts is that it is rich in antioxidants. Chamomile tea has more antioxidants than green tea! These antioxidants scavenge harmful toxins and byproducts that can damage cells, leading to inflammation. Chamomile’s anti-inflammatory properties benefit it for conditions like Crohn’s disease, joint pain, and cancer.
This herb is also a good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Vitamin A is essential for vision and immune function, while vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage. Potassium is vital for proper muscle function, calcium is necessary for strong bones and teeth, and magnesium helps to relax muscles and nerves.
In addition to its many nutrients, chamomile also contains compounds that have been shown to have medicinal properties. For example, chamomile tea has been a folk remedy for centuries to help with digestive issues like upset stomachs, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The compounds in chamomile are thought to soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation. If you’re looking for an easy way to boost your health, add chamomile tea to your diet. This delicious herb has plenty of health benefits to offer!
Health benefits of chamomile
Chamomile is a dried flower that can be found pre-packaged at most health food stores. When brewed as a tea, chamomile is considered a relaxant, can help restore insomnia, and can be a soothing detoxifier of the gut. Chamomile’s active ingredient, apigenin, binds to specific receptors in the brain that have neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. Chamomile is also high in flavonoids—an antioxidant—linked with reducing the risk of some chronic diseases, like heart disease and cancer. Chamomile’s antioxidants may also help to protect cells from damage and improve overall skin health.
Chamomile side effects and precautions
Like any herb or supplement, chamomile has the potential to cause side effects and interactions with other medications. Although it is generally considered safe when taken in small amounts, some people may experience allergic reactions such as skin irritation, hives, or digestive upset.
Chamomile may also interact with blood thinners, sedatives, and certain antidepressants. If you take any of these medications, talk to your doctor before adding chamomile to your diet.
When taken in large doses, chamomile may act as a mild sedative. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s best to avoid chamomile altogether. If you have asthma or other allergies, check with your doctor before taking this herb.
Chamomile is an incredible herb with a wide range of health benefits. It can be consumed in many different ways and is even safe for most people to take daily. If you’re looking for a natural way to improve your health, chamomile should be at the top of your list!
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