How Chamomile Tea Promotes a Healthy Lifestyle

Chamomile Tea and Cancer

Chamomile contains high levels of polyphenols and flavonoids, two classes of strong antioxidants. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals caused by natural stressors including UV damage and diet. When found in high concentrations free radicals can cause cancer. In one lab study, the antioxidant profile of chamomile effectively targeted human liver cancer cells. (1) Furthermore, the bioactives in chamomile induce apoptosis–cell death–in exclusively cancer cells, leaving healthy cells to function normally. (2) 

Chamomile Tea and Cardiovascular Disease

Flavonoids also lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Studies show even small incremental increases in flavonoid intake can have a profound preventative effect. Flavonoids prevent stroke and ischemic heart disease, caused by the narrowing of the arterial walls. (3) In fact, chamomile prevents cardiovascular disease primarily by promoting the integrity of the arteries: through anti-inflammatory action, chamomile takes strain off of the arteries and heart. (4)

The bioactives luteolin and apigenin, found in high levels in chamomile, are active in the cardiovascular system in a different capacity, as they are responsible for developing new blood cells. (5)

Chamomile Tea and Sleep

Chamomile has long been used as a sleep aid. Traditional medicine prescribes chamomile to help insomnia, restless sleeping, and other irregular sleeping patterns. Compounds in chamomile have been described as slightly psychoactive and they may help with symptoms of depression and anxiety. (6)

Chamomile Tea and Mental Health

Chamomile’s sedative effect can calm anxiety. One study showed that subjects that were given chamomile extract displayed fewer symptoms of anxiety than those not given the extract. (7)

Chamomile Tea and Pain Relief

Chamomile has been used as a pain reliever in traditional medicine for years, and research backs these long-held claims. Joint function was improved and pain in the knees and lower back was reduced in patients supplemented with chamomile. (8) Osteoarthritic patients also received relief from consumption and topical application of chamomile. (9)

Chamomile Tea and Digestion

Chamomile alleviates symptoms of gastrointestinal distress including diarrhea and gas, while also soothing the stomach and relaxing digestive muscles. (10)