Brewed since the time of the ancient Egyptians, there are many chamomile tea benefits. The tea is brewed from parts of the plant Matricaria recutita, also known as manzanilla or German chamomile, a cousin of the daisy and sunflower. Though there are many types of chamomile, German chamomile is the type usually used in teas and herbal remedies.
Chamomile tea can be brewed from the fresh or dried plant. The active ingredient in the tea is bisabolol, a known anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial. Chamomile tea benefits can last for up to two weeks after drinking the tea. Studies have shown the breakdown products of tea are still in bodies of tea drinkers up to two weeks after last drinking the tea.
Chamomile Tea Benefits
While there are many chamomile tea benefits, perhaps the best studied is its use as a sleep aid. There have been numerous studies done documenting the effects of chamomile as a calming and sleep inducing agent. In 2006, Phytotherapy Research published a review of the literature showing that the calming effects of chamomile can be used for anxiety as well.
In 2005, the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry published a study showing the benefits of chamomile tea as an immune booster. The study found increased levels of hippurate, a known antibacterial, in chamomile tea drinkers. The same study also showed that drinkers of chamomile tea have increased blood levels of glycine, which relieves muscle cramps, including menstrual cramping.
More chamomile tea benefits
Another chamomile tea benefit is the regulation of blood sugar. The University of Toyama found in 2008 that daily consumption could help prevent complications from diabetes from hyperglycemia. While not a cure for diabetes in itself, the tea seems to be able to prevent some of the problems that are related to diabetes when blood sugars are not well maintained.
A 2007 study conducted by the University of the West Indies showed significantly better wound healing when the tea was ingested in animals. While further study needs to be done to determine if wounds will also heal better in human subjects, chamomile does appear to speed up wound healing considerably in animals.
Chamomile tea may also be a promising remedy to help to prevent cancer. A 2007 Case Western Reserve University showed chamomile may have some anti-cancer properties, but needs further study. Other studies have also shown the tea to be helpful in aiding digestion and to be helpful for those that suffer from hemorrhoids.
Summary of Chamomile Tea Benefits
From regulating blood sugar to improved wound healing, there are multiple benefits of chamomile. The tea can be used as much more than a sleep aid, and may even help to prevent cancer. While further research still needs to be conducted, there appear to be many chamomile tea benefits for everyone.
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