Chamomile, the Sleep Aid

Eisha Sarkar
Posted on Hello Wellness on Oct 12 2010 6:16PM

The national flower of Russia, the daisy-like Chamomile, has evolved as one of the best natural sleep-inducers worldwide. Originally from central and southern Europe, Matricaria camomilla, is now widely cultivated in USA, Australia, Argentina, Egypt, and northern Africa and packaged as tea that can be purchased over the counter.

A tea for bed!
Chamomile has been used throughout the ages as a very effective sleep aid. Chamomile tea, which is made from the dried flowers and leaves of this common plant, is most effective when sipped a half an hour to forty-five minutes before going to bed. Chamomile can also be used in a sachet placed underneath a pillow.

Chamomile Tea Recipe (One Serving)

Ingredients
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp dried chamomile flowers
• lemon juice
• honey

Preparation
Bring the water to the boil in a pan. Add dried chamomile flowers to it and boil for 30 to 45 seconds with the lid on. Remove tea from the heat and let the flowers steep for another minute and then strain it. Served with honey and a little lemon juice, the tea can help you unwind after a busy day. Its calming properties usually begin to take effect within a half hour of drinking a cup.

How does it work?
Chrysin, a flavonoid component of chamomile, is the chemical attributed to chamomile’s ability to relieve anxiety and promote sleep. In rodent studies, chrysin has been found to be anxiolytic i.e. it can be used in the treatment of anxiety disorders.

Unlike some herbal sleep remedies, chamomile does not have to be used on a regular basis to be effective as treatment for insomnia. It can be used on the spot to provide quick relief for sleeplessness and anxiety.
Chamomile is also known to reduce the histamine-based swelling produced by allergic reactions, and is an excellent solution when congested sinuses or food allergies contribute to sleeplessness.

A word of caution
Though chamomile has been traditionally used for 100 ailments and conditions, few have undergone scientific study on humans and animals. In some persons, chamomile may induce rare allergic reactions, atopic dermatitis (skin rash), drowsiness or sedation and even has the potential to stimulate the uterus, leading to miscarriage. It also increases drowsiness if taken with lorazepam or diazepam, barbiturates, phenobarbital, narcotics, antidepressants and alcohol. Consult a doctor before its use.