Chamomile, scientifically known as Matricaria recutita L., is believed to have its origins in the Near East and the southern and eastern regions of Europe. Today, the plant has a wide distribution, found across Europe, Western Siberia, Asia Minor, the Caucasus Mountains, Iran, Afghanistan, and India. It is also cultivated in many of these regions and has been introduced for cultivation in North and South America, Australia, and New Zealand.
The use of chamomile in traditional medicine has a long history. In the Unani system, it is known as Babuna and has been utilized for centuries. In contemporary times, chamomile flowers are commonly used to prepare herbal tea (tisane), which is valued for its mild therapeutic effects. This tea is often given to infants with colic and is also consumed by adults to alleviate mild stomach discomfort or to manage stress.
Chamomile flowers have special ingredients, like essential oils and plant bioactive compounds, that give them their unique smell and healing properties. One of these oils is called α-bisabolol, which is like the flower's fragrance. When the flowers are used to make tea or other products, they also contain compounds called flavonoids, which help reduce swelling and redness. These properties are why chamomile is often used to calm irritated skin or make you feel relaxed when you drink chamomile tea. These special compounds are the secret helpers that make chamomile so gentle and calming.
Few studies have revealed that Chamomile is a plant that many people use to help them relax and fall asleep. Some people drink chamomile tea, while others use chamomile oil to make their room smell nice before bed. Scientists think that chamomile helps you calm down and go to sleep because of a special ingredient called apigenin. This ingredient connects to parts of your brain that help you feel sleepy.
Chamomile has been examined for its potential to help with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), a condition where people experience constant worry or anxiety. Some studies have found different results, but one study showed that German chamomile might reduce the symptoms of GAD significantly. In another controlled clinical trial, using chamomile extract, it was found to have a small but noticeable effect in calming patients with mild to moderate GAD. This means it might help to reduce anxiety for some people.
Inflammation is when your body gets red, swollen, or sore, which can happen inside your tummy or on your skin. This can lead to different problems, like a burning feeling when food comes back up into your throat (esophageal reflux), or other issues like diverticular disease, where parts of your gut get swollen and painful.
Chamomile is a plant that people think can help with these problems. Some studies have found that chamomile might stop a bad bacteria called Helicobacter pylori, which can cause stomach ulcers—these are like sores inside your stomach. Chamomile is also believed to help relax muscles in your tummy that might be causing cramps or spasms from inflammation.
Recent studies have started to show that chamomile tea might be good for heart health, especially when it comes to heart rate variability (HRV). HRV is a measure of how much time passes between heartbeats, and it's linked to various health issues. If you have a higher HRV, that's usually a good sign.
In 2016, the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology published a study that found drinking chamomile tea could boost HRV in healthy adults. Then in 2017, the Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology released another study showing that chamomile tea increased HRV in people with type 2 diabetes.
Ancient herbalists and healers discovered its calming effects and began to cultivate and use chamomile for tea and other remedies. This knowledge has been passed down through generations, leading to the popularity of chamomile tea in modern times.
Disclaimer
The information contained on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and other material, is provided for informational and educational purposes. It is not intended to serve as a recommendation for any specific treatment, product, or course of action. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately. The website owner and its contributors do not endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information mentioned on this site. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
Comments