Chamomile is a herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes around the world. Chamomile is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and relaxing properties.

It is an excellent natural remedy for anxiety, stress, and insomnia. Besides, it has several other health benefits that are still not well known to many people. In this article, we will discuss the top six health benefits of chamomile.

Benefit #1: Improves Sleep Quality

Chamomile is an effective natural remedy for people who have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. It contains apigenin – a flavonoid that binds to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain, creating a calming and sedative effect.

A study conducted on postpartum women showed that drinking chamomile tea for two weeks improved their sleep quality and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety (1). Another study also found that chamomile extract reduced the time it takes to fall asleep and increased overall sleep time in people with insomnia (2).

Benefit #2: Reduces Inflammation

Chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to reduce inflammation in the body. Its flavonoids, chamazulene, and bisabolol act as natural anti-inflammatory agents.

A study found that taking chamomile supplements reduced markers of inflammation in people with osteoporosis (3). Chamomile can also be used to alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease.

Benefit #3: Helps with Digestion

Chamomile contains compounds that can help with digestion. It stimulates the production of digestive enzymes, reduces inflammation, and helps to relax the muscles in the digestive tract.

A study conducted on patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) found that taking chamomile extract reduced the severity of their symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea (4).

Benefit #4: Boosts Immune system

Chamomile has antimicrobial properties that can help to boost the immune system. It contains compounds like flavonoids, terpenoids, and coumarins that inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

A study found that chamomile extracts can kill several strains of bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Streptococcus mutans, and Streptococcus pyogenes (5).

Benefit #5: Lowers Blood Sugar Levels

Chamomile can help to regulate blood sugar levels. Several studies have found that chamomile extracts can reduce blood sugar levels in people with diabetes type 2 (6).

Chamomile tea has been shown to have hypoglycemic effects and can help to slow down the absorption of glucose in the bloodstream.

Benefit #6: Good for Skin

Chamomile has soothing and moisturizing properties that make it good for the skin. It can be used to reduce redness, inflammation, and skin irritation. Chamomile extract has been shown to be effective against eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea (7).

Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties protect the skin from free radical damage and help to prevent premature aging.

Conclusion

Chamomile is a natural herb with numerous health benefits. It is an effective treatment for insomnia, inflammation, digestive problems, and skin conditions.

It also has antimicrobial and blood sugar regulating properties that can help to boost the immune system and prevent diabetes. Chamomile can be taken as tea, supplements, or applied topically to the skin.