Chamomile is a popular herb known for its many potential health benefits. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and is cherished for its soothing properties.
Keep reading to learn about the benefits of taking chamomile as a supplement.
What is Chamomile?
Chamomile is a member of the Asteraceae family and is native to Europe and Asia. German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) or Roman chamomile are the most frequent types of chamomile used for medical purposes (Chamaemelum nobile).
Chamomile flowers are tiny, daisy-like, with a bright yellow core and white petals. It has a nice flowery scent and a light apple flavor.
This herb is commonly served as a tea, which is created by steeping the blooms in hot water. Chamomile tea is well-known for its calming and relaxing properties, making it a popular choice for many people looking for a relaxing tea before night.
Chamomile as a Supplement
Relaxation and Anxiety Reduction
Chamomile contains compounds that interact with brain receptors that can lower anxiety and induce relaxation. Chamomile can create a more serene condition conducive to sleep by relaxing the mind and reducing nervous thoughts.
In a study involving 179 participants, chamomile was compared to a placebo. The results indicated that long-term use of chamomile was safe and led to a significant reduction in moderate-to-severe anxiety levels.
Sleep Induction
Chamomile contains ingredients that function as moderate sedatives, encouraging sleepiness and supporting sleep initiation. While not as effective as prescription sleep drugs, chamomile's sleep-inducing properties can contribute to a more relaxed state, which aids in the initiation of sleep.
A study conducted in 2017 focused on elderly individuals and compared chamomile to a placebo. The findings revealed that those who received chamomile experienced notable improvements in sleep quality. Similarly, another study involving postnatal women experiencing sleep disturbances found that drinking chamomile tea helped alleviate depression and improve sleep quality.
Muscle Relaxation
Chamomile has long been used to help calm the body and reduce muscle tension.
When we consume chamomile, these molecules interact with receptors in our brain and nerve system, promoting relaxation.
Chamomile also has anti-inflammatory qualities, which means it can aid in the reduction of inflammation in the body.
Chamomile may help relax the muscles and decrease any related discomfort by combining its relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties. This muscle relaxation effect can assist in the improvement of sleep quality.
Digestive Comfort
Chamomile has also traditionally been used to relax the digestive tract and ease symptoms such as bloating and indigestion.
According to some research, chamomile may help boost the production of digestive enzymes, which are necessary for breaking down food and facilitating digestion. Chamomile can help prevent or minimize digestive disorders that cause discomfort by improving digestion.
Make sure to check out Deep Sleep Reishi if you are looking for a sleep supplement that contains chamomile and other adaptogens.