Tea has always been treasured by society for its versatility, health benefits, and taste. Whether it's consumed leisurely when catching up with a friend or consumed daily for its detox properties, there's always a type of tea that resonates with a large population of the world. Chamomile, in particular, has stepped up to become one of the most prominent types of tea for dietary purposes and for good reason. Chamomile tastes great and is packed with so many benefits that traditions have used this as a medicinal supplement for generations. Here are some of the health benefits of Chamomile tea.

What is Chamomile Tea?

As its name suggests, Chamomile tea comes from the Chamomile herb that has been one of the best representatives of herbal medication. Its species is derived primarily from the Golden Marguerite, or yellow chamomile. Chamomile contains Chamazulene, a compound that is known for anti-inflammation, analgesic, and antispasmodic properties (basically the components for a stronger immunity system). Unlike black or red teas, Chamomile is on the lighter side and is traditionally consumed as a refreshing beverage that compliments meals or snacks. More importantly, Chamomile has arguably the most health benefits out of any teas and is worth trying to improve your immunity system.

It Prevents Insomnia

Many of the stronger teas in the market contain caffeine which can serve as a milder alternative to coffee when in need of an energy fix, but Chamomile tea does the opposite and is an organic solution that can give sleeping pills a run for its money. The tea soothes the body's nervous system and can lead to better sleep. This can also double down as a relaxing agent which is perfect for high-intensity situations. This Tea is great when you are in need of relaxation after a long day.

Helps Lower Blood Sugar

Part of the appeal of a detox is to reduce unnecessary weight and clutter in the bloodstream, which Chamomile tea does wonderfully. Although it is not an elixir for diabetes, it is a reliable supplement to diabetic medication to curb the spike of blood sugar within the body. This tea functions as a long-term preventive measure rather than medication for an existing condition.

Increases Bone Density

Many usually correlate bone health with calcium, but Chamomile has much to offer in this department too. Once again, Chamomile serves to reduce the risks of bone fragility. Interestingly, this especially applies to post-menopausal women who are susceptible to a reduction of bone density due to alterations in estrogen levels.

Reduces Inflammation

The immune system is where herbal medicine has been known to make its mark, and camomile is one of the best at treating it. The tea reduces inflammation primarily pertaining to hemorrhoids, gastrointestinal pains, and autoimmune disorders. Inflammation can cover a myriad of systems such as digestive, skeletal, and muscular, but the tea's role extends throughout these systems.

Reduces Risk of Cancer

There are various types of cancer preventers in the food and drinks market, but chamomile has been documented to reduce the production of cancer cells directly in recent studies. Although a 2012 study showed that marigold tea is a more potent solution for this, chamomile still contains properties that can reduce the risks significantly. The compound that supports this claim is apigenin, which has been linked to fighting breast, skin, prostate, and digestive-related cancer.

Treats Colds

Possibly the most common practice to demonstrate Camomile's medicinal properties is with a cold. One of the most common illnesses, the tea's antioxidant properties are effective in clearing nasal congestion, soothe sore throats and reduce runny noses. In addition, mixing the tea with some honey speeds up the recovery as it reduces throat inflammation that leads to coughing and reduces the excess of phlegm discharge.

Reduces Muscle Spasms

If your muscles are on a fritz, Camomille can reduce its effects easily. The tea contains over 30 flavonoids, compounds that are primarily responsible for the herb's anti-inflammatory properties. Rather than in the form of tea, the herb can be infused with essential oils and applied to the skin to relax sore muscles that have been acting up. This can also help with cramps, caused by the uterus outputting prostaglandins, a hormone-based substance that causes inflammation.

Treats Skin Conditions

In addition to having anti-inflammatory properties, Chamomile tea possesses antibacterial features that help reduce the surfacing of acne. It is considered one of the best among all teas for this benefit due to the sheer amount of antioxidants it contains. Once again, if drunk, chamomile works best with honey for users to get the best effect, but applying directly on the skin via compressed chamomile or grounded leaves are effective ways too. Naturally, as a cure for bad skin, the tea also helps boost skin help which allows improved moisture and whitening.

Reduces Dark Circles under the Eyes

This is a rather unusual application of Chamomile tea as it technically requires the tea to be made, but it is the used teabag that sees the most value. According to India's leading beauty expert Suparna Trikha, refrigerating the tea bags after use and leaving them on the eyes for some time can gradually reduce the darkness under them. Due to its antioxidant qualities, the tea helps to reduce puffiness around the eyes and properly moisturises them like it would when making contact with the skin.

Eliminates Dandruff

Lastly, Chamomile tea also plays a vital role in removing dandruff altogether. There is much about hair care that is interchangeable with skincare. The scalp is a skin surface that largely determines the condition of your hair and a poorly maintained scalp can lead to dandruff. Therefore Chamomile's antibacterial properties can help reduce oil clutter much like how it functions when treating acne.

Ezra Gideon, UNB and Dhaka Courier Correspondent in Singapore.