Author: Lorena Tran

Chamomile tea, which is made from dried chamomile flowers, was first used as a calming drink by the ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks. Since then, the plant has been used in native traditions around the world to induce calm. Chamomile has also been used to treat muscle spasms and fever. In the Middle Ages, Europeans used chamomile essential oil for this, while African folk remedies use the chamomile flower[1].

Research in modern times shows that chamomile’s calming properties have the potential to treat many conditions. Studies have found that chamomile reduces the physical and mental effects of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), a series of symptoms that commonly affect women during their periods. In particular, chamomile tea reduces stress and anxiety, as well as diminishing cramp-related pain[2]. In addition to PMS, studies suggest that chamomile could aid in treating mental health conditions. Chamomile extract capsules were found to decrease

symptoms of General Anxiety Disorder[3] and improve mood[4], suggesting that chamomile may have antidepressant properties.

Sources:

[1] Das M. Chamomile: Medicinal, Biochemical, and Agricultural Aspects. CRC Press, 2015.

[2] Khalesi ZB, Beiranvand SP, Bokaie M. Efficacy of Chamomile in the Treatment of Premenstrual Syndrome: A Systematic Review. Journal of Pharmacopuncture. 2019;22(4):204-209.

[3] Sarris J. Herbal medicines in the treatment of psychiatric disorders: 10-year updated review. Phytotherapy Research. 2018 Jul;32(7):1147-1162.

[4] Amsterdam JD, Li QS, Xie SX, Mao JJ. Putative Antidepressant Effect of Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) Oral Extract in Subjects with Comorbid Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Depression. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 2020 Sep;26(9):813-819.