Chamomile tea is one of the most popular herbal teas in the world, renowned for its calming and soothing effects.
This age-old natural remedy has been used by people all over the world to relax and unwind after a long day or to help them get a good night’s sleep.
In addition to being an excellent source of relaxation, chamomile tea also offers many other health benefits such as reducing inflammation, aiding digestion and boosting immunity.
Drinking this fragrant beverage can be an enjoyable way to enjoy some much needed ‘me time’ while reaping the rewards of its therapeutic properties.
TYPES OF CHAMOMILE TEA
There are several types of chamomile tea, each with their own unique characteristics and properties. Here is a brief overview of the different types of chamomile tea.
GERMAN
German chamomile tea is a popular herbal tea made from dried flowers of the Matricaria chamomilla plant.
It has a lovely, sweet, floral flavor, and it is known for its numerous health benefits.
German chamomile tea is caffeine-free, and it is often consumed before bed to relax and calm the body.
The tea is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling in the body, relieve anxiety, and promote relaxation.
It can be used to soothe digestive issues, such as bloating, indigestion, and nausea.
German chamomile tea is often recommended by natural health practitioners as a remedy for insomnia, stress, and anxiety.
It can be brewed by steeping dried flowers in hot water for several minutes, and it can be consumed hot or cold.
Some people add honey, lemon, or other natural sweeteners to enhance the flavor of the tea.
ROMAN
Roman chamomile tea is a herbal medicine that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments.
It is made from the dried flowers of the roman chamomile plant, which contains powerful anti-inflammatory and calming properties.
Drinking this tea can help reduce stress, improve sleep quality, ease digestive issues, and reduce inflammation in the body.
In addition to these health benefits, it has a pleasant taste that makes it enjoyable to drink on its own or as part of a delicious beverage.
Roman chamomile tea can be found in many forms including loose leaf teas, bags and tinctures.
WILD
Wild chamomile, also known as “pineappleweed,” is a close relative of the chamomile plant but has a slightly different taste and appearance.
Wild chamomile tea is made from the dried flowers of the Matricaria discoidea plant, which grows predominantly in North America and Europe.
It has a slightly bitter taste compared to other types of chamomile tea, with a hint of sweetness and fruitiness.
Wild chamomile tea is often used for stomach discomfort, as it is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
The tea can also be used to alleviate headaches, anxiety, and menstrual cramps.
Wild chamomile tea can be brewed using the same methods as other herbal teas, by steeping the dried flowers in hot water for several minutes.
Some people prefer to sweeten the tea with honey or add a slice of lemon to enhance its taste.
EGYPTIAN
Egyptian chamomile tea is made from dried flowers of the chamomile plant known as Matricaria chamomilla, which is grown in Egypt.
The flowers are harvested and dried, then infused in hot water to make a tea that is enjoyed for its relaxing and calming properties.
Egyptian chamomile tea is caffeine-free, making it an excellent option for those looking for a soothing tea to drink before bed.
It is often used as a natural remedy to help with insomnia, anxiety, and stress.
The tea has a sweet, floral flavor, with a slight earthy taste.
It is often served without sweeteners or dairy products, but some people prefer to add a bit of honey or lemon to enhance its flavor.
Egyptian chamomile tea is also used for digestive issues and is believed to help reduce inflammation in the body.
MOROCCAN
Moroccan chamomile tea, also known as “Moroccan Mint Tea,” is a traditional beverage in Morocco that is commonly consumed throughout the day.
The tea is made using gunpowder green tea leaves and fresh spearmint leaves, along with dried chamomile flowers.
The tea is typically sweetened with sugar or honey and served hot.
Moroccan chamomile tea is known for its refreshing and soothing properties, as well as its ability to aid in digestion.
The combination of the slightly bitter tea leaves, the minty flavor of fresh spearmint, and the floral notes of chamomile creates a unique and delicious taste that is enjoyed by many.
CAPE
Cape chamomile tea is a type of herbal tea made from the dried flowers of the Eriocephalus punctulatus plant, which is native to South Africa.
It is known for its blue color and its calming properties.
Cape chamomile tea has a slightly sweet, floral flavor, and it is often used as a natural remedy for stress, anxiety, and insomnia.
This tea is caffeine-free, making it a popular option for those who want to avoid caffeine.
Cape chamomile tea is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties, making it a popular remedy for digestive issues like bloating and abdominal cramping.
The tea is often brewed by infusing dried flowers in hot water for several minutes, and it is typically consumed plain, without any additional sweeteners or flavorings.
In addition to its many health benefits, Cape chamomile tea has a lovely aroma and a beautiful blue color that makes it a unique and exotic tea to enjoy.
BREWING CHAMOMILE TEA
Brewing chamomile tea is a simple process that can be done in just a few minutes. Here are the steps to brewing chamomile tea:
- Start by boiling fresh water in a kettle or on the stove. Chamomile tea is best brewed with water that has been brought to a rolling boil.
- Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers per cup of water. You can also use a chamomile tea bag if you prefer.
- Place the chamomile flowers or tea bag in a tea infuser or strainer and place it in a mug. Pour the hot water over the flowers and let steep for 5-10 minutes. Cover the mug to keep the tea warm and allow the chamomile to steep fully.
- After steeping, remove the infuser or tea bag and strain the tea to remove any remaining flower pieces. Chamomile tea can be served plain, or you can add honey, lemon, or other sweeteners to taste.
Chamomile tea can be enjoyed at any time of day and is a great alternative to caffeinated drinks.
It’s also a good idea to check the brewing instructions on the package of chamomile tea you are using, as different brands may have slightly different brewing times and water temperatures.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF CHAMOMILE TEA
IMPROVES SLEEP
Chamomile tea is known to promote relaxation and reduce stress, which may help to improve sleep quality.
It contains compounds such as apigenin, luteolin, and quercetin which are known to have sedative effects in the body.
Studies have shown that chamomile extract can increase the amount of time spent sleeping, reduce restlessness during sleep, and improve overall sleep quality.
For those looking for an all-natural way to get better restful sleep at night, chamomile tea may be worth trying out
REDUCES INFLAMMATION
Chamomile is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that may help to reduce inflammation in the body and alleviate symptoms of conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Studies have shown that drinking chamomile tea regularly can help relieve symptoms of arthritis, gout, joint pain, and other inflammatory conditions.
The antioxidants present in chamomile tea also help protect against further damage from free radicals.
For those looking for a natural way to reduce inflammation without resorting to medication or surgery, regular consumption of chamomile tea could be a great option.
LOWERS ANXIETY
Chamomile may help to reduce anxiety symptoms, which can improve overall mood and cognitive function.
In recent years, scientific studies have confirmed the potential of chamomile extract in treating symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
Research suggests that drinking chamomile tea may help lower levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress, and promote feelings of calmness.
Additionally, compounds found in chamomile tea can interact with certain receptors in the brain which are linked to reducing feelings of worry or panic.
DIGESTIVE SUPPORT
Chamomile extract is known as a gentle yet effective digestive relaxant that helps to soothe an upset stomach or indigestion symptoms such as bloating or cramps.
It has anti-inflammatory properties which can reduce irritation in the gut lining and promote healing of ulcers or other gastrointestinal issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
IMPROVES SKIN HEALTH
Chamomile contains antioxidants that may help to promote healthy skin, reduce inflammation, and protect against skin damage caused by environmental factors.
It is a natural ingredient that has been used for centuries to soothe and nourish the skin.
The anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile also help reduce redness and irritation in the skin, while its moisturizing effects keep your complexion looking smooth and hydrated.
Furthermore, regular consumption of this herbal tea can even help reduce acne breakouts by controlling sebum production in oily skin types.
COLD SYMPTOM RELIEF
Chamomile tea may help to reduce symptoms of the common cold, such as congestion and sore throat.
It contains numerous compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties which help reduce congestion, soothe sore throats, and alleviate coughing.
It also helps relax the body with its calming effects on nerves and muscles, making it a great way to get relief from the discomfort of a cold or flu.
PAIRING CHAMOMILE TEA WITH FOOD
Pairing chamomile tea with food can be a great way to enhance the flavor and enjoyment of both the tea and the food. Here are some pairing suggestions:
- Chamomile tea pairs well with a variety of baked goods, including cookies, cakes, and pastries. Its delicate flavor and aroma can help balance the sweetness of the baked goods.
- The light, floral flavor of chamomile tea pairs well with fresh fruit. Try pairing it with berries, peaches, or citrus fruits.
- Chamomile tea can also be paired with cheese, particularly soft, mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese.
- Chamomile tea can complement light salads, particularly those with fruits and nuts. The tea’s delicate flavor can balance the acidity of the salad dressing.
- The light, floral flavor of chamomile tea pairs well with seafood, particularly fish and shellfish. Try pairing it with grilled shrimp or poached salmon.
When pairing chamomile tea with food, it’s best to choose delicately-flavored or light food items, as this tea has a milder taste compared to other teas.
Experimenting with different flavor combinations can help you to find your perfect pairing match.
SUMMARY
Chamomile tea is an herbal concoction made from the chamomile plant and has been used for centuries as a form of traditional medicine.
Apart from its medicinal benefits, it is also consumed as a comforting beverage due to its pleasant taste and aroma.
Preparing the tea properly is key in order to reap the maximum flavor and health benefits that can be derived from this ancient herbal remedy.
When preparing this tea, it is important to use fresh chamomile flowers rather than using dried flowers or pre-packaged teabags.
Boiling water should be poured over the fresh petals and left to steep for around 10 minutes before being strained into a cup or mug.
Depending on preference, honey or lemon juice can be added as sweetener.
An additional benefit of adding these ingredients is that they also add further health benefits by way of their natural properties.
Once prepared, chamomile tea can be enjoyed both warm or cold depending on preference; alternatively, an iced version can also be created by brewing and straining the tea ahead of time to store in the fridge overnight before pouring over ice cubes in a glass.
This delightful beverage offers numerous health benefits such as improved sleep quality, reduced stress levels, and enhanced digestion, among other things.
Along with its natural sweetness, drinking chamomile tea provides many physical and psychological rewards which make it an ideal choice for those seeking a tasty yet beneficial herbal treatment.