Chamomile tea
has long been used, as a traditional folk remedy, for a wide range of health
issues. Nowadays, researchers are increasingly exploring its effectiveness in
managing illnesses, including cancer and diabetes.
So far,
research into the potency of chamomile tea has shown promise. However, studies
vary with some research proving clear benefits compared to alternative
remedies, and others merely pointing to possible ones.
For most
people, chamomile tea is safe to try as a supplement to other treatments, but
it should not replace mainstream medical treatments when people have serious
illnesses.
Fast facts
about chamomile tea:
- Dried chamomile flowers are used to make chamomile tea.
- Researchers are interested in the benefits of consuming chamomile tea.
- Similarly to any other herbal remedy, it is not safe for everyone.
- The more potent the tea, the more likely it is to offer health benefits.
What is
chamomile tea?
Chamomile tea
is a traditional folk remedy made from dried chamomile flowers.
The potency of
various chamomile teas varies, with some containing significantly more
chamomile than others. The more potent teas are also more likely to cause side
effects in people who are vulnerable to them. Consequently, it is safest to
start with a low dosage and work up to larger doses slowly.
Chamomile
contains chemicals called flavonoids. These flavonoids are a type of nutrient
present in many plants, and they play a significant role in chamomile's
medicinal effects.
Researchers
are not sure yet what other chemicals are present in chamomile specifically and
account for its benefits.
Benefits of
chamomile tea
The potential
benefits of chamomile tea, for which there is the most evidence, include:
1. Reducing
menstrual pain
Several
studies have linked chamomile tea to reduced severity of menstrual cramps. A
2010 study, for example, found that consuming chamomile tea for a month
could reduce the pain of menstrual cramps. Women in the study also reported
less anxiety and distress associated with period pain.
2. Treating
diabetes and lowering blood sugar
Again, some
studies have found that chamomile tea can lower blood sugar in people with
diabetes. Research does not show that chamomile is a viable substitute for
diabetes medications, but it may be a helpful supplement to existing
treatments.
Similarly, a 2008 study of rats
found that consistent consumption of chamomile tea might prevent blood sugar
from increasing. This effect reduces the long-term risk of diabetes
complications, suggesting that chamomile could improve diabetes outcomes.
3. Slowing or
preventing osteoporosis
Osteoporosis
is the progressive loss of bone density. This loss increases the risk of broken
bones and stooped posture. While anyone can develop osteoporosis, it is most
common among post-menopausal women. This tendency may be due to the effects of estrogen.
A 2004 study found that
chamomile tea might have anti-estrogenic effects. It also helped promote bone
density, but the study's authors caution that further research is needed to
prove this apparent benefit.
4. Reducing
inflammation
Inflammation
is an immune system reaction to fight infection. Chamomile tea contains
chemical compounds that may reduce
inflammation. However, long-term inflammation is linked to a wide range of
health problems, including hemorrhoids, gastrointestinal pain, arthritis,
autoimmune disorders, and even depression.
5. Cancer
treatment and prevention
Some studies
suggest that chamomile tea may target cancer cells, or even prevent those cells
from developing in the first place. However, research so far is inconclusive,
and scientists say more work is needed to prove chamomile's anti-cancer claims.
Also, most research has looked at clinical models in animals, not humans.
A 2012 study
compared the cancer-fighting powers of marigold and chamomile teas. Both were
able to target cancer tumors selectively, but the effects of marigold tea were
more potent.
6. Helping
with sleep and relaxation
Chamomile tea
is thought to help people fall asleep.
Chamomile tea
is widely thought to help people relax and fall asleep. Few clinical trials
have tested this, however.
In one review
of the current evidence, 10 of 12
cardiovascular patients are quoted as having fallen asleep shortly after
consuming chamomile tea. A handful of other studies looking at clinical models
also suggest that chamomile tea may help people relax.
In a study
using rats, chamomile extract helped sleep-disturbed rodents fall asleep.
Many researchers believe that chamomile tea may function
like a benzodiazepine. Benzodiazepines are prescription drugs that can
reduce anxiety and induce sleep. Some research suggests that chamomile binds to
benzodiazepine receptors.
A review
looking at the ability
of chamomile tea to reduce anxiety is inconclusive. Some studies show a
modest anti-anxiety benefit, but others do not.
7. Treating
cold symptoms
Anecdotal
evidence and some
studies suggest that inhaling steam with chamomile extract can relieve some
of the symptoms of the common cold. But this benefit is not proven yet.
8. Treatment
for mild skin conditions
A small 1987 study found
that applying chamomile extract directly to a wound assisted healing. Likewise,
a few studies
have found that chamomile ointments may help with eczema and mild inflammatory
skin conditions, although they are not as effective as hydrocortisone cream.
Who should
avoid chamomile tea?
The following
groups should avoid chamomile unless advised otherwise by a doctor:
People with a
history of severe allergies, particularly to pollens: Chamomile may be
contaminated with pollen from other plants so can cause an allergic
reaction.
People who
have previously had an allergic reaction, even mild, to chamomile products: They
should avoid chamomile, as allergic reactions can get worse with time.
Infants and
very young children: Chamomile tea, similarly to honey and some other natural
products, may be contaminated with botulism spores. Most healthy adults can
fight off the infection, but infants may not be able to. Many doctors recommend
infants and young children avoid honey, and they
should also avoid chamomile products.
It is also not
safe to use chamomile as a substitute for proven medical treatments. If someone
is taking any medications, they should ask their doctor about potential
interactions with chamomile tea.
Takeaway
Chamomile tea
has been used in folk medicine for thousands of years, often with encouraging
results. For now, however, it remains a supplement and not a medication.
People
interested in trying chamomile tea should use it as a supplement to, and not a
replacement for their usual medication regimen. In regular doses, such as 1 to
2 cups a day, it is possible to see incremental health improvements.
Source: here
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