General considerations about chamomile tea and what it is used for

Who has never drunk chamomile tea before going to sleep? This is a very common habit not only among Brazilians, but all over the world, as the infusion has been known as a natural remedy for centuries.

This tea has numerous health benefits, such as relaxation, improved digestion, relief from cramps and even the prevention of some types of cancer. It also acts as an anti-inflammatory and stimulates healing.

In addition, the infusion can be prepared using only this medicinal plant or combined with others, such as fennel and mint, boosting its magnificent properties. Check out the recipes and more below.

Chamomile, part used and its properties

Chamomile tea has several properties that help you relax after an intense day of work, and even relieves discomfort caused by poor digestion. Find out more about this plant and its medicinal potential below.

Camomile

The chamomile, scientifically named Matricaria chamomilla, is also known as margaça and macela-nobre, one of the most consumed medicinal plants in Brazil and the world since antiquity. It is a small flower, slightly scented with a sweet aroma. Its core is yellow and has beautiful white petals.

It is very similar to daisy, but in a compact version. It can be easily found in health food stores and markets, being sold in the form of dried flowers or bags ready for infusion.

The used part of the chamomile

Chamomile flowers are usually used to make tea, but many people also use the leaves, so these parts of the medicinal plant are dried and dehydrated to make them last longer.

Far beyond tea, chamomile can also be transformed into a seasoning in the preparation of savory dishes, such as pasta and chicken. In sweets, it helps to perfume cakes and brigadeiros.

The properties of chamomile

Chamomile tea has several properties that give it medicinal benefits. These include the flavonoids apigenin (anti-inflammatory and antioxidant), luteolin (anti-tumour and antioxidant), patuletin (analgesic) and quercetin (anti-inflammatory and antioxidant).

In addition, the infusion has essential oils such as azulene, which combines several actions. This substance is a powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, soothing and sedative. Therefore, the tea can also be used to soothe the skin after a hair removal process, for example.

Moreover, chamomile tea has in its composition nutrients such as iron, magnesium, calcium, zinc and potassium. It is also rich in vitamins A, D, E, K and B complex (B1, B2, B9).

What is chamomile tea used for

Chamomile tea offers several therapeutic effects. It is a great calming, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and healing agent. Therefore, it works as a natural and home remedy for some diseases. Learn about its thousand and one uses below.

Relaxation

Chamomile tea has calming properties, capable of giving a lasting sense of relaxation. Therefore, this infusion works perfectly as an anxiety and stress reducer, helping to promote well-being.

In fact, thanks to its calming effect, it is an important ally in the prevention and treatment of anxiety disorders and depression.

Many people also use this beverage as a natural sedative in the bath or in a massage session. This is because one of the many benefits of chamomile tea is its delicious, relaxing aroma.

Sleep Improvements

Chamomile tea helps to improve sleep quality, since one of its main active ingredients is apigenin, a powerful flavonoid with antioxidant action, which promotes the feeling of sleep.

By the way, the presence of this natural antioxidant brings that pleasant feeling of relaxation and well-being, even after an intense day of work, for example. With that, your body and mind thank you, promoting an invigorating night's sleep.

In addition, a study of women who had just had a baby revealed that chamomile tea helps them get a more restful night's sleep, even during difficult periods like the puerperium. In fact, when consumed daily, it also decreases the symptoms of postpartum depression.

Digestive improvements

Chamomile tea is also pointed out as a great friend of the digestive system. This happens because its assets work as a natural anti-inflammatory, exerting a protective effect against diarrhea, for example.

In addition, research has shown that this infusion has the ability to prevent stomach problems such as ulcers, since it reduces acidity in the organ. Thus, the growth of bacteria that contribute to the development of diseases is also inhibited.

Cancer Prevention

The prevention of some types of cancer is another benefit of chamomile tea. This is because this plant has a wide variety of antioxidant substances, often related to a lower occurrence of cases of this disease.

By the way, studies show that the apigenin present in the infusion fights cancer cells in certain parts of the body, being a great aid in the treatment of cancers of the breast, skin, prostate, uterus and digestive system.

In addition, drinking chamomile tea two to six times a week helps to significantly decrease the chances of developing tumors in the thyroid region.

Blood sugar control

The consumption of chamomile tea helps to control blood sugar levels and therefore helps to prevent diseases such as diabetes, since it prevents glucose peaks. In fact, in a study with diabetic individuals, those who drank the infusion daily between meals for eight weeks experienced a significant drop in average blood sugar levels.

In addition, research conducted on animals reveals that chamomile tea is also able to significantly control the amount of glucose in the body when we are fasting.

Good for the heart

Chamomile tea is an ally of the heart, since it regulates the levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL cholesterol (popularly known as bad cholesterol).

This happens because this plant has several flavonoids, which are compounds that help reduce diseases that affect the heart and circulatory system as a whole. The drink is also able to reduce the risk of coronary artery diseases.

In addition, chamomile infusion has been shown to be efficient in lowering blood pressure and heart rate, as it reduces the reabsorption of minerals, such as sodium.

Different recipes for chamomile tea

Chamomile tea can be prepared in several ways, alone or combined with other herbs and medicinal plants. Check out some recipes, discover new flavors and enjoy all its benefits.

Chamomile tea to relax

Chamomile tea offers numerous benefits, among them the most famous: its calming effect. Therefore, it is ideal for relaxing, as well as treating anxiety and insomnia. To prepare the infusion, you will need:

- 2 teaspoons dried camomile flowers

- 1 cup boiling water

Directions:

Place the boiling water in a teacup and add the chamomile. Cover and let it infuse for about 10 minutes. After this period, strain and enjoy this wonderful drink. The infusion can be ingested up to 3 times a day.

Chamomile tea for bad digestion and gas

The combination of chamomile tea with other medicinal plants is perfect for eliminating gas and aiding digestion. Take note of the ingredients:

- 1 teaspoon chamomile

- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds

- 1 teaspoon of mille-feuille

- 1 teaspoon chopped althaea root

- 1 teaspoon filipendula

- 500 ml boiling water

How to make:

Place the boiling water in a container with all the plants from the list above. Cover the container and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then, just strain it. This infusion can be consumed up to 3 times a day.

Chamomile tea for tired and puffy eyes

Chamomile tea combined with fennel and elderflower helps refresh and reduce puffiness of the eyes, note the recipe:

- 1 tablespoon chamomile

- 1 tablespoon crushed fennel seeds

- 1 tablespoon dried elderflower

- 500 ml boiling water

How to prepare:

Place the plant mixture in a container with boiling water. Cover and leave to infuse for 10 minutes. Then strain and store in the refrigerator.

Use a moistened gauze to apply the tea to the closed eyes, leaving it to act for 10 minutes. The process can be repeated whenever necessary.

Chamomile tea for sore throat

Chamomile tea helps relieve sore throat thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, check out the recipe:

- 1 teaspoon dried camomile flowers

- 1 cup boiling water

How to:

Add the chamomile to the boiling water, cover the container and let it rest until it cools down completely. Use this tea for gargling whenever necessary.

Chamomile tea for motion sickness

The combination of chamomile tea with peppermint or raspberry is ideal for relieving nausea and motion sickness. Check out what you will need to prepare the recipe:

- 1 teaspoon chamomile

- 1 teaspoon dried peppermint or raspberry leaves

- 1 cup boiling water

How to make:

Place the plant mixture and boiling water in a container, then cover and leave to infuse for 10 minutes. Strain before drinking. This tea can be consumed up to 3 times a day.

Chamomile tea to treat colds and flu

Chamomile tea is perfect for helping to treat colds and flu, as it relieves the symptoms of a runny nose. Check out what you'll need:

- 6 teaspoons chamomile flowers

- 2 liters of boiling water

- Large towel for inhalation

How to prepare:

Place the water and chamomile in a container, cover and let it rest for 5 minutes. Then start the inhalation process. Use a large towel to cover your head to enhance the effect of the tea. Breathe the steam of the infusion deeply for approximately 10 minutes.

Additional benefits of chamomile and chamomile tea

Chamomile tea has several benefits not so well known as its calming and relaxing effect. It relieves menstrual cramps, reduces hyperactivity and still leaves the skin beautiful and healthy. Check out more below.

Relief from colic

Chamomile tea can be one of the best friends of women during the menstrual period, since it relieves the unpleasant cramps. This happens because the infusion stimulates the production of glycine, reducing the intensity of muscle spasms, which cause so much discomfort.

In addition, chamomile has powerful anti-inflammatory agents in its composition, which helps to significantly reduce pain and swelling.

By the way, other PMS symptoms can be alleviated by chamomile tea. The anxiety and mood swings characteristic of this period can even disappear thanks to the calming effect of this drink.

Headache relief

Chamomile tea is able to relieve headache. According to some research, the infusion and oil of this plant can be used topically, that is, passing on the skin directly on the sore spots.

In addition, its soothing and sedative properties help to decrease the duration of discomfort, relaxing the body. Incidentally, in Persian and Iranian medicine, chamomile is used in combination with sesame oil to ease bouts of chronic headache.

Relieves symptoms of anxiety and depression

Chamomile tea is an excellent ally in the treatment of anxiety and depression, because it alleviates the unpleasant symptoms of these diseases. In fact, studies show that its aromatherapy use is also very efficient.

These benefits are due to the presence of apigenin, a flavonoid that is able to act directly on the brain, regulating the central nervous system. The anxiolytic and mild sedative effect significantly relieves the bad feelings that these diseases bring.

However, it is worth noting that alternative treatment must be accompanied and approved by a psychiatrist.

Good for the skin

Chamomile tea is not only good for our body on the inside, but also on the outside. This infusion has moisturizing and anti-inflammatory action, helping the skin to be healthier and more beautiful. In addition, this medicinal plant is known for its calming effect, being perfect and even essential for those who have the most sensitive or extremely dry skin.

Therefore, this infusion can already enter our daily care routine. By the way, the dermatological benefits of chamomile are already more than proven, as the cosmetics industry uses this plant in products such as creams, lotions and soaps.

Common questions about chamomile tea

Chamomile tea has been used for centuries for its wonderful medicinal properties, but it can be said that many people have been in doubt whether they can use this infusion for a particular purpose. Check out below what are the most common doubts about this drink and find out all the answers.

Does chamomile tea lose weight?

This is the most common doubt about chamomile tea. Does it really help in the weight loss process? The answer is yes. Just like other infusions, chamomile tea can help you lose weight.

This infusion works as a diuretic and also has an antioxidant effect against free radicals. However, to achieve the weight loss goal, this infusion must be associated with a balanced diet, an exercise routine and a healthy lifestyle. Keep in mind that chamomile tea is only one factor among many to lose weight.

Who has gastritis can take chamomile tea?

People who suffer from gastritis can rest assured that chamomile tea tends to even help in the treatment of diseases of the digestive tract. This is because the infusion has therapeutic and medicinal effects thanks to its flavonoid components, with anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and antiseptic action.

Therefore, chamomile fights spasms of the muscles of the gastrointestinal system, helping to take care of gastritis and other ailments such as ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome.

Can puppies consume chamomile tea or chamomile otherwise?

According to veterinarians, chamomile tea can be safely administered to puppies as long as it is not consumed abundantly. This drink serves as a natural calming agent for dogs, helping to keep them relaxed.

In addition, chamomile helps reduce colic and inflammation, and also treats digestive problems. However, it is worth remembering that a qualified professional should be consulted whenever your pet is sick or you want to start an alternative treatment with teas.

Other ways to use chamomile

Chamomile is a versatile medicinal plant that can go far beyond tea. It can be used in the form of inhalations, compresses, and sitz baths. Here's how to make each type of preparation.

Inhalation

Chamomile inhalation is a great ally to treat colds, flu and sinusitis. This is because the steam relieves the symptoms of runny or congested nose, since it warms and moistens the airways. However, it is worth remembering that the process in children should be done under adult supervision, because there is the risk of burns.

Write down the ingredients:

- 6 teaspoons chamomile

- 2 liters of boiling water

How to:

Add chamomile and water in a bowl. Cover and leave to infuse for 5 to 10 minutes. Then place your face over the bowl and cover your head with a large towel to facilitate inhalation. Breathe deeply for 10 minutes. The process can be repeated 2 to 3 times a day.

Sitz bath

The sitz bath made with chamomile has antibacterial effect and helps in the treatment of candidiasis, relieving symptoms such as itching, irritation, swelling and pain. In addition, this process is great for those suffering with hemorrhoids, because of the anti-inflammatory properties of this medicinal plant.

To prepare the seat bath, you will need:

- 3 tablespoons of chamomile

- 1 liter of boiling water

How to:

Place the chamomile and water in a container, cover and let cool, then strain and use the mixture in a basin or bathtub. Do the sitz bath for 5 minutes at least once a day.

Compresses

Chamomile can be used in the form of compresses to help treat wounds, burns and skin irritations, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and soothing action. Check out the necessary ingredients:

- 1 tablespoon chamomile

- 500 ml boiling water

How to make:

Place the chamomile and water in a container, cover and leave to infuse for about 15 minutes. After this period, strain and moisten a gauze (or cotton), passing the tea in the affected area at least 2 times a day.

Are there any contraindications to the consumption of chamomile tea?

Despite being widely used in the world, chamomile tea is contraindicated for some groups. The infusion cannot be consumed by those with allergies to plants of the chamomile family, such as daisy, chrysanthemum, ambrosia, and mal-me-quer.

In addition, people with blood clotting disorders and those on warfarin or heparin treatment should not use this tea due to the risk of bleeding.

Moreover, the use by pregnant and lactating women and children should only be under medical advice. Remember that the tea is a natural alternative treatment and does not exclude the evaluation of a professional. If the symptoms persist or are more severe, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.