Chamomile tea benefits
Chamomile tea of manzanilla tea is known as Babune ka phal in Hindi. Unlike other tea, this tea lacks caffeine and is a famous variety of tea that is loaded with antioxidants. Prepared from the dried Chamomile flowers, chamomile tea is popular for its numerous healing properties.
A caffeine-free alternative, ayurveda and homeopathy recommend chamomile tea as part of healing process.
Nutritional value of Chamomile tea
A cup of chamomile tea comprises of 2 calories and 0.5 gms of carbohydrates. It is a rich source of flavonoids. It further contains traces of calcium, potassium, magnesium, fluoride, vitamin A, and folate.
Possible health benefits of chamomile…
1/10. Lowers blood sugar
1. The pancreas produces insulin, the hormone which is responsible for eliminating sugar from the blood. The anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile restrict the damage to the pancreas.
2. Daily consumption of chamomile results in decreasing blood sugar levels.
2/10. Promotes digestion
1. Chamomile restricts the growth of Helicobacter pylori which contributes to stomach ulcers.
2. Useful in treating gastrointestinal disorders such as gas, indigestion, diarrhea, heartburn, nausea, motion sickness, vomiting and anorexia.
3/10. Promotes sleep
1. Apigenin, an antioxidant present in Chamomile binds to particular brain receptors which aid in promoting sleep and preventing insomnia.
2. It further decreases waking up in the middle of the night. It improves the quality of sleep and sleep cycle.
4/10. Promotes heart health
1. The flavonoids present in Chamomile reduces blood pressure and cholesterol.
2. The flavonoids, antioxidants play a major role in promoting heart health.
5/10. Prevents cancer
1. Chamomile tea displays inhibitory growth effects on cancer cells.
2. The antioxidant apigenin aids fight against several cancer cells and hence, reduces the risk to numerous types of cancer.
6/10. Relieves menstrual pain
The anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and pain-relieving properties of Chamomile help relaxing the uterine muscles, thereby easing menstrual pains. The intensity of muscle spasms is reduced by increasing glycine levels in the body.
7/10. Reduces anxiety & stress
Chamomile tea soothes the nerves and the nervous system thus, treating anxiety and stress. Chamomile accelerates release of stress eradicating hormones serotonin and melatonin levels. This tea is calming and acts as a natural sedative.
8/10. Boosts immunity
1. The phenolic compounds content of chamomile aids in strengthening the immune system and thus, keep infections away.
2. Chamomile tea also helps fight against flu, sore throat, sinus issues, nasal congestion, and cold.
9/10. Reduces inflammation
Chamazulene chemical compounds in Chamomile tea which may decrease inflammation. The strong anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile help in treating stomach cramps.
10/10. Other possible health benefits…
Chamomile Tea is also beneficial for treating cold, reducing muscle spasms, alleviates stomach ache and other gastrointestinal disturbances. It is also helpful in treating cuts and wounds. Its benefits for improving skin health are many. It repairs skin tissues because of anti-oxidants thereby slowing down aging, reduces acne due to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, is used for sunburn treatment, reduces under-eye dark circles and can also be used for cosmetic purposes as a skin bleach. It is also good for hair as it prevents dandruff.
Chamomile tea is generally consumed as a nerve and stress relaxant. It is highly recommended by the Ayurvedic and homeopathic practitioners.
How to make Chamomile tea?
Warm 2 cups water in a tea-pot and add any type of natural sweetener.
Then, add 2 tbsp chamomile flowers to the pot of boiling water.
Cover the pot. Put the gas on low for 2-10 minutes, depending on how strong you wish the tea to be.
Strain the tea and then add some lemon juice and 1 tsp honey.