Health benefits of chamomile tea

May 29, 12:03 AMDC Coffee & Tea ExaminerBrenna Coleman

Previous Next

Comment Print Email RSS Subscribe

Subscribe

Get alerts when there is a new article from the DC Coffee & Tea Examiner. Read Examiner.com's terms of use.

Email Address   Include other special offers from Examiner.com Terms of Use

chamomile tea

Chamomile tea, which is technically an herbal infusion, or tisane, is one of the most popular herbal teas.  Next to mint, it is served at most restaurants, cafes, and of course, coffeehouses.  Chamomile is an herbal staple because of its warming honey-apple flavor, and relaxing effect, but this drink is more than a soothing nightcap.  It is a traditional medicinal herb, cultivated for thousands of years, and used across the world to heal, nourish, and sooth.

Aside from preference, here are some reasons to order chamomile tea:

• It is a carminative, which means that the phytochemicals in the herb stimulate the digestive tract and relax the stomach, making chamomile an ideal after dinner tea. 
• It has antiseptic and antibacterial properties.  Drinking chamomile will actually help to cleanse the body of infection.
• Chamomile is an anti-spasmodic.  It relieves and prevents both menstrual and muscle cramps.
• It minimizes pain, because of the herbs analgesic properties - hopefully you aren't in pain when ordering a cup of tea, but something to keep in mind.
• This herbal brew also works as a diaphoretic, encouraging the body's natural process of eliminating toxins through the skin.
• Chamomile strengthens and tones the nervous system.
• It helps with inflammation, reducing joint pain, or even skin inflammations.
• And the most well-known trait, chamomile is a mile sedative.  Not that a cup of tea will put you to sleep, or impair your driving, but it has a mild sedating effect, relieving stress, anxiety, and nervousness. 

Chamomile's health benefits work cumulatively - the more you drink it, the more potent the effect.  So drink up.  Each cup is full of health promoting phytochemicals and antioxidants.  Enjoy it straight up, or with a little honey and cream.

For more info: Where to find a great cup of chamomile tea in the district?  Teaism has an incredible blend called 'Quiet Evening', with chamomile, peppermint, and rose hips.  Soho Tea & Coffee has a wonderful selection of loose leaf teas, including chamomile, and is also open late if you're looking for a late-night cup of chamomile tea.