Chamomile, also referred to as Babune ka Phal in Hindi, "has a stellar reputation for healing, and with good reason. It is prepared from dried flowers and it brings an oasis of calm and tranquility," says Mr. Amit Anand, Owner of Mingle Tea. The beautiful Chamomile flower is native to Asia, Europe, Australia and North America, and blooms during the early summer months.Chamomile tea contains Chamazulene, an aromatic chemical compound that possesses anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antispasmodic properties. Whether you're overworked or suffering from a cold, "steep a hot cup of Chamomile tea, inhale its wonderful floral fragrance and then see your worries disappear as you sip this magical golden brew," assures Amit. Chamomile tea is a popular beverage across the world, it is steeped with both health and skin benefits that are hard to find in many other teas. The benefits of chamomile tea are in abundance. It is not only soothing and refreshing, but can also be beneficial for you in more than just one way.
We've spoken to health experts and listed 13 remarkable benefits of Chamomile tea:
1. Promotes Sleep and Treats Insomnia
According to Dietician Anshul Jaibharat, "Chamomile tea relaxes nerves and soothes the nervous system, therefore helping you sleep better. It lacks the addition of caffeine, and is best consumed before sleeping".
Also Read: Sleep Inducing Foods: 7 Foods You Must Have To Catch Up On Your Precious Sleep
2. Boosts Immunity
Many studies have shown that Chamomile tea will not only kick illnesses to the curb, but also work as a great preventive measure. "It fights harmful bacteria, and has the ability to boost your immune system," says Dr. Ahuja, Fortis Hospital.
Also Read: 4 Magical Foods That Could Help Boost Your Immunity
3. Treats Cold
Suffering from a terrible cold? One of the best benefits of chamomile tea comes into play here. Consider drinking a hot cup of chamomile tea and let it work its magic. You can also inhale steam from Chamomile tea (as shown below) to ease nasal congestion, a runny nose and sore throat.
Also Read: Toss Them Away: 6 Foods That Aggravate Cold And Cough In Winters
4. Reduces Muscle Spasms and Period Pain
According to a study published in the Journal of Agriculture and Chemistry, Chamomile tea has pain-relieving and antispasmodic properties. It relaxes the uterus and decreases the production of prostaglandins (hormone-like substances that cause inflammation and pain).
Also Read: 7 Brilliant Home Remedies for Period Pain
5. Soothes Stomach Ache
According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, "Chamomile tea has been valued as a digestive relaxant and has been used to treat various gastrointestinal disturbances including flatulence, indigestion, diarrhea, anorexia, motion sickness, nausea and vomiting".
Also Read: 12 Amazing Home Remedies For Acidity
6. Treats Cuts, Wounds and Skin Conditions
Did you know that Chamomile tea has been used by the Romans, Greeks and Egyptians to treat wounds and promote healing? This is because the plant Chamomile tea is derived from Matricaria chamomilla L, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It also heals skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.
7. Reduces Stress
Today's busy, chaotic world leaves us feeling increasingly anxious and stressed. According to Dietician Anshul Jaibharat, "Chamomile tea is a gentle relaxant and acts as an effective natural sedative, thereby reducing stress."
Also Read: 6 Expert Tips to Overcome Mental Stress at Work
8. Lightens Skin
Sipping into hot chamomile tea could do wonders for your skin too! This magic potion can be used as a natural skin bleach. Chamomile tea is packed with antioxidants which help boost your skin health. It lightens the complexion and also gives you that glow you've always wanted.
Also Read: 7 Healthy Foods To Treat Oily Skin
9. Reduces Acne
Not just the glow, chamomile tea could help end your war with frequent acne breakouts too. Chamomile tea helps fade spots, eliminate acne scars and fight breakouts, if used topically, due to its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
10. May Have Anti-Ageing Properties
Chamomile tea is a powerhouse of antioxidants and protects the skin from free-radical damage. It accelerates cell and tissue regeneration, helps tighten the pores and slows down the ageing process.
11. Treats Sunburn
The harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun can cause various problems for your skin. Chamomile tea is known for its antioxidant, soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. You can brew the tea, chill it thoroughly, soak a towel in it and then apply it to the sunburned area.
12. Reduces Under-Eye Dark Circles
Suparna Trikha, India's leading beauty expert says, "Never throw away Chamomile tea bags after using them, and refrigerate them instead. You can place the chilled tea bag over your eyes (especially after doing an eye massage) to lighten the eye area dramatically and reduce puffiness. You will find an instant difference in the way your eyes look and feel".
13. Gets Rid of Dandruff
Fed up of dandruff? Drink a cup of chamomile tea. Yes, we are serious. Chamomile tea helps eliminate and prevent dandruff, soothes scalp irritation and promotes healthy hair. You can use it as a final rinse after washing your hair. It's that simple!
Also Read: 7 Easy Home Remedies to Get Rid of Dandruff
"Make Chamomile tea a part of your daily routine to reap the benefits," adds Amit Anand.