CHAMOMILE RELIEVES ANXIETY AND STRESS

Chamomile is an herb that belongs to the Asteraceae (daisy or sunflower) plant family and is grown around the world. The nutrients it contains may help manage diabetes, menstrual pain, and sleep problems. Chamomile tea is a natural remedy for a wide range of health issues.  Chamomile and its essential oil have been used in Ayurveda. 

Most studies showed that daily consumption of chamomile is effective in improving anxiety and no threatening or adverse side effects were reported. In patients diagnosed with anxiety disorder, most studies reported that they observed significant improvements regarding to anxiety symptoms. 

Chamomile is also called as "karpurapuspa" in Sanskrit and "Baboona" or "Babuna" in Hindi. Two of the species, Matricaria chamomilla and Chamaemelum nobile, are commonly used to make herbal infusions for beverages. Chamomile, also referred to as "Babune ka Phal" in Hindi, has a stellar reputation for healing, and with good reason. 

Studies have used between 220 milligrams to 1,600 milligrams daily in capsule form. Chamomile is widely regarded as a mild tranquillizer and sleep-inducer. Sedative effects may be due to the flavonoid, apigenin that binds to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain.

It found that chamomile capsules reduced symptoms of anxiety in people with mild to moderate generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). In line with many studies summarized in the present study, which showed anti-anxiety effects of oral consumption of chamomile, many studies even showed that chamomile in massage therapy and aromatherapy can also show anxiety-reducing effects.  

Animal studies have found that low doses of chamomile may relieve anxiety, while higher doses help sleep. Chamomile may help reduce physical pain. The most popular way to consume chamomile is by drinking the plant as a tea. But there are other ways to prepare chamomile. It can be used as an essential oil and in capsule form. 

Some people might consume chamomile flowers as food, such as a salad ingredient or as a salad dressing. Traditionally, chamomile flowers have been used to relieve toothaches, earaches, nerve pain, and arthritis. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is the set of physical and emotional symptoms that are experienced in the days leading up to a menstrual period. 

Chamomile has been used as an herbal remedy since ancient Greece and Rome. It's commonly available at coffee shops that serve tea. Chamomile can be used in a variety of ways, including: 

CHAMOMOLIE TEA

The most common form to take chamomile is as a tea, and some people drink one to four cups daily. Chamomile tea may help people relax and fall asleep. To make chamomile tea, simply steep a chamomile tea bag or chamomile flowers in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes. 

Usually the optimal time to drink some chamomile tea is 45-60 minutes before bedtime or during wind down time to help with sleep. The way you drink your tea is all down to preference, but chamomile tea is best served without milk. Instead, you can add honey to sweeten it. 

Always use freshly drawn cold water. Never pour boiling water over loose leaf tea or tea bag. It is thought that chamomile may boost chemicals in the brain that can affect mood, such as serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline. These are natural chemical messengers that are present in the brain, and it is thought that boosting these chemicals can be helpful in depression. 

A 2019 review noted that, after 2–4 weeks of treatment with chamomile, people with generalized anxiety disorder saw an improvement in symptoms. Treatment with chamomile may also improve sleep quality. 

The small chamomile flowers are known to decrease levels of harmful bacteria, soothe abdominal pain, prevent diarrhea, and decrease gas. You can enjoy Chamomile tea at any point during the day, but it is especially beneficial for a bloated or upset stomach and to aid in a better night's sleep. 

AROMATHERAPY

Inhaling chamomile oil may help with a variety of conditions, including anxiety and promoting sleep. Use chamomile in a diffuser or inhaler to promote relaxation. Roman Chamomile is a fragile plant with a relaxing effect on the senses. It is widely recognized for its relaxing characteristics, capacity to relieve stress, and ability to help with sleeplessness. It's also used in shampoos, cosmetics, and fragrances to help with neurotic problems. 

Roman chamomile's warm, sweet vegetal scent soothes and comforts both the body and the brain. Because the oil is so calming, it is hugely valuable for restless youngsters. For its calming effect on different skin types, it is commonly used in European skin treatments. 

When Roman chamomile is added to massage oil, it helps to relieve muscular pain after exercise. One of the very few essential oils that are safe to be used on youngsters is Roman chamomile oil. 

Chamomile essential oil, particularly Roman chamomile, is known for its calming effects, making it a popular choice for promoting a good night's sleep. Its anti-inflammatory properties are beneficial for treating skin irritations and improving skin tone.

MASSAGE OR BATH

Use chamomile in a massage or bath to relieve sore muscles or promote relaxation. You can pour chamomile oil into your palm and gently massage using firm strokes. You can leave it on for 15–20 minutes before your bath or use it on moist skin after your shower. 

A study found that massaging people with cancer with diluted Roman chamomile oil helped reduce anxiety and other symptoms more than massage alone. Another study found that using chamomile and lavender aromatic oils during massage can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. 

You can add chamomile oil mixed with a carrier oil to your bath water for a relaxing bath. You can add 1–2 drops of chamomile oil to a body lotion or moisturizer. You can soak a towel or cloth in warm water, add 1–2 drops of diluted chamomile oil, and apply to an achy area. 

CAUTION 

• Studies in preclinical models have shown anticonvulsant and CNS depressant effects respectively. 
• Roman chamomile is considered generally safe. Chamomile may make asthma worse, so people with asthma should not take it. 
• Pregnant women should avoid chamomile because of the risk of miscarriage. 
• If you are allergic to asters, daisies, chrysanthemums, or ragweed, you may also be allergic to chamomile. 
• Side effects are uncommon and may include nausea, dizziness, and allergic reactions, including severe hypersensitivity reactions and anaphylaxis, in some people. 
• If used near the eyes, chamomile might cause eye irritation. 

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