Library of Nature: Chamomile
Chamomile needs no introduction. The herb is widely known for its relaxing and calming effects. However, it has a lot more to offer.
The beautiful white, daisy-like flowers that give off an apple-like scent have been used as a natural remedy for a range of health issues since ancient times. Researchers have also studied the herb, and there is a good amount of scientific evidence supporting its traditional uses.
Let’s explore this beautiful and useful herb and evaluate the medicinal benefits of Chamomile flowers.
Chemical Composition of Chamomile Flowers
More than 120 secondary metabolites have been identified in Chamomile flowers. Some of the most important ones include:
- Luteolin
- Quercetin
- Coumarins
- Patuletin
- Apigenin
- Bisabolol
- Chamazulene
- Farnesene[1]
- Sesquiterpene lactones[2]
A Brief History of Chamomile’s Use
In the form of herbal tea, the history of Chamomile use can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where it was primarily used as a natural remedy for colds.[3] Over time, as many of its other properties became known, Chamomile flowers also began to be used to calm the mind and body, treat digestive and respiratory issues, relieve stomach cramps, reduce inflammation and nausea, and for various skin conditions.[4]
Health Benefits of Chamomile
Following are some of the scientifically-proven benefits of Chamomile flowers:
· They Help Calm the Nerves and Improve Sleep
Any discussion on the benefits of Chamomile flowers cannot be completed without mentioning their calming properties. The daisy-like flowers are best known for their ability to calm the racing nerves, release stress, and reduce anxiety. This eventually affects sleep. Consuming a cup of chamomile tea at bedtime is long known as one of the best natural ways to get a good night’s sleep. Several research studies have also confirmed these properties of chamomile flowers.[5] Some researchers even compare the effects of chamomile tea with Benzodiazepines, the most commonly used anti-anxiety drugs.[6]
While the exact mechanism of action behind these effects is unknown yet, many researchers attribute the calming effects of Chamomile to ‘apigenin,’ a flavonoid found in abundance in Chamomile flowers. Scientists believe that the chemical binds to specific receptors in the brain to calm the nerves and induce sleep.[7]
· Chamomile Helps Reduce Blood Sugar Levels
Research shows that Chamomile can be a great supplementary natural aid for lowering blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. This, when coupled with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, also make the herb effective for preventing pancreatic cell damage, which occurs when the blood sugar level remains consistently high.[8]
Chamomile tea is particularly effective in keeping blood sugar levels within a healthy range when consumed with meals. In a research study, diabetic patients who had chamomile tea with their meals every day for eight weeks showed significantly lower average blood sugar levels than those who didn’t have the herbal tea.[9]
· Chamomile Offers Several Skin Benefits
The potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Chamomile also make it great for the skin. It can help prevent premature aging (due to free-radical damage), relieves skin inflammation[10] , and aids in wound healing.[11]
Incorporate this fruity-flavored herb into your daily routine to have a good night’s sleep every night and also experience its other benefits over time. Make sure to use pure and organic Chamomile tincture to get the best results.
References:
[1]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matricaria_chamomilla
[2]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995283/
[3]http://www.viconyteas.com/directory/tea-encyclopedia/chamomile-tea.html
[4]http://heritagegarden.uic.edu/german-chamomile-matricaria-recutita
[5]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995283/ , https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/bpb/28/5/28_5_808/_article, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29154054
[6]https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S108707929990093X ,
[7]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995283/
[8]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995283/
[9]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25194428