Drinking Chamomile Tea Before Bed: Here’s Why It Helps You Relax And Sleep Better

Chamomile tea has been a popular bedtime beverage for centuries, and for good reason. This gentle, floral tea is known for its calming and relaxing properties, making it a natural choice for unwinding after a long day or promoting a restful night’s sleep. But what is it about chamomile that makes it so effective at calming the mind and body?

The Science Behind Chamomile’s Calming Effects

Chamomile tea contains several compounds that contribute to its relaxing properties. The most notable of these are:

Apigenin

Apigenin is a flavonoid that binds to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain. These same receptors are targeted by anti-anxiety medications, which explains why chamomile tea can have a similar calming effect.

Chamazulene

Chamazulene is a volatile compound that gives chamomile tea its distinctive blue color. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Bisabolol

Bisabolol is a terpene alcohol that has been shown to have soothing and anti-inflammatory effects. It can help reduce skin irritation and inflammation, which can contribute to feelings of stress and anxiety.

How to Brew the Perfect Relaxing Chamomile Tea

To get the most out of your chamomile tea, it’s important to brew it properly. Here are a few tips:

1. Use loose-leaf tea. Loose-leaf tea contains more of the active compounds than tea bags, so it will be more effective at relaxing you.
2. Steep for 5-10 minutes. Steep your tea for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors and active compounds to fully release.
3. Add a touch of honey or lemon. Honey can help enhance the calming effects of chamomile, while lemon can add a refreshing citrus note.

When to Drink Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea can be enjoyed at any time of day, but it is especially beneficial when you’re feeling stressed or anxious. It can also be helpful to drink a cup of chamomile tea before bed to promote relaxation and restful sleep.

Other Benefits of Chamomile Tea

In addition to its relaxing properties, chamomile tea offers a number of other health benefits, including:

Reduced Inflammation

Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. This can be beneficial for a variety of conditions, including arthritis, digestive issues, and skin conditions.

Improved Digestion

Chamomile tea can help improve digestion by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract. This can help relieve symptoms such as gas, bloating, and cramping.

Boosted Immunity

Chamomile tea contains antioxidants that can help boost the immune system and protect against infection.

The Bottom Line

Chamomile tea is a safe and natural way to relax and de-stress. Its calming effects are due to several compounds, including apigenin, chamazulene, and bisabolol. Chamomile tea is also a good source of antioxidants and has other health benefits, such as reduced inflammation and improved digestion.

What You Need to Learn

How much chamomile tea should I drink per day?

Most experts recommend drinking 2-3 cups of chamomile tea per day.

Can chamomile tea cause side effects?

Chamomile tea is generally considered safe, but it may cause side effects in some people. These side effects include nausea, vomiting, and allergic reactions.

Can I drink chamomile tea if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

It is generally safe to drink chamomile tea during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but it is always best to talk to your doctor first.