Benefits of Chamomile

Benefits of Chamomile

On any given day — how many times do you feel stressed? If you’re like the majority, it’s probably more times than you’d like. There’s no doubt that stressful situations are uncomfortable, but did you know that they actually wreak havoc on your health? Here are some shocking stats to put things into perspective:

  • 44 percent of Americans feel more stressed than they did five years ago
  • 20 percent of American experience EXTREME stress — leading to shaking, depression, and heart palpitations
  • Work-related stress causes 10 percent of strokes
  • 75 percent of doctor’s visits are for stress-related ailments
  • Stress may cause up to 60 percent of all human illnesses
  • Chronic stress increases your risk of heart disease by 40 percent and stroke risk by 50 percent

These are just some shocking truths — not to mention the 40 percent of stressed individuals who overeat or follow an unhealthy diet and the 44 percent who do not sleep well. If you can relate, it’s critical that you address high levels of stress, reducing your risk of disease — all while improving your overall quality of life.

Chamomile Combats Stress Naturally

Perhaps you are already familiar with chamomile, as it’s a popular flower and tea. This daisy-like plant has been used since Ancient times based on its calming effects. Used throughout Ancient Greece, Egypt, and Rome, chamomile has a vast and impressive history. Targeting a range of ailments, it is a potent, all-natural remedy.

Native to a number of countries throughout Europe, chamomile is now cultivated in Egypt, Germany, Spain, Morocco, Italy, France, and many other regions. Its healing properties come from its flowers, offering volatile oils, as well as flavonoids and other therapeutic substances. Its benefits are far-reaching, especially in terms of its calming properties.

Health Benefits of Chamomile

For years, chamomile has been the ‘go-to’ remedy for sleep and relaxation. You’ll often hear of stressed individuals drinking chamomile tea, in order to dull their anxious symptoms. Unlike many remedies, chamomile can be used both internally and externally, increasing its therapeutic uses.

Based on its antibacterial, antifungal, antipyretic, anti-allergenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-septic, and antispasmodic, it can address to many health issues — both mental and physical. These are just some of chamomile’s benefits, which are achieved through a range of methods and applications:

  • Addresses digestive issues — Whether you have an upset stomach or ulcers, chamomile may help soothe pain and irritation. Since this flower has the ability to relax muscles and the lining of your intestine, it can also help those suffering from IBS or poor digestion.
  • Supports healthier skin — Based on its anti-inflammatory and anti-septic properties, chamomile can help address skin issues, including acne, eczema, and allergies.
  • Soothes crampsWithin one study, it was found that chamomile increased urine levels of glycine, reducing the effects of muscle spasms. Research has also focused on chamomile’s ability to reduce menstrual cramps.
  • Promotes sleep — Based on its ability to calm the central nervous system, a cup of chamomile tea before bed can do wonders who sleep issues. For centuries, it has been used as a remedy for insomnia.

From hemorrhoid treatment to an anti-cancer remedy, chamomile is most certainly a well-rounded. For those who suffer from high levels of stress and/or anxiety, you will be interested in its ability to tame this uncomfortable and potentially threatening symptoms.

Chamomile Reduces High Stress Levels and Symptoms of Anxiety

It’s clear that stress and anxiety are wreaking havoc on public health, increasing rates of many serious health conditions. Of course, it’s imperative to focus on your current lifestyle, making key changes to your diet and ability to manage stress, but you can also gain added support through herbal remedies.

As mentioned, chamomile has long been recommended for symptoms of anxiety and in a 2009 study, this connection was documented by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania. Over the course of eight weeks, the authors were interested in standardized test scores and levels of generalized anxiety.

One group was given a placebo, whereas the other took a pharmaceutical grade chamomile capsule. As expected, those who took chamomile, displayed a reduction in symptoms and the results were deemed both clinically meaningful and statistically significant. This is important because it shows that chamomile not only has relaxing effects, but real application.

Studies are now showing that is can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and even depression. Based on three key constituents — luteolin, bisabolol, and apigenin, chamomile has now been shown to relax blood vessels and smooth muscle fibers. Meaning, its calming and anti-stress effects go far beyond a more positive state-of-mind.

Are There Any Side Effects?

In comparison to drugs, herbal remedies are generally well tolerated and safe. A low percentage of individuals are sensitive to chamomile in terms of an allergic reaction. If you’re sensitive to ragweed and chrysantheumums, then you may be more sensitive to chamomile in comparison to the general population.

Another issue for some, is chamomile’s ability to thin the blood. If you have issues with your blood or are having upcoming surgery, you should avoid chamomile. Also, based on its sedative properties, it’s not recommended that you take chamomile and drive — or operate heavy machinery.

For those who are pregnant, chamomile may cause uterine stimulation, potentially increasing the risk of miscarriage. Like any new form of supplementation, it’s best to speak with your healthcare provider before taking any new remedy — herbal or not. This is especially true if you’re taking any medications, as interactions may occur.