Chamomile is a medicinal herb from the Asteraceae/Compositae family, rich in terpenoids and flavonoids.compounds that provide their medicinal properties. Since ancient times it has been used as a home remedy to improve sleep and reduce anxiety, properties that are supported by science.
Dr. William Arias, a functional doctor with training in Neurology and Obesity and Nutrition, known as the “Diet Doctor,” explains in a video shared on social networks that This ancient plant improves sleep and how it should be used to see results.
Arias confirms that this traditional drink is neither a myth nor a placebo. Chamomile has solid scientific evidence supporting its sleep benefits, according to recent studies.
The effect of chamomile helps reduce the time it takes us to sleep and significantly improve the quality of sleep, being useful even against chronic insomnia.
How does apigenin work?
He explains that the key to chamomile consumption is apigenin. This is the star compound that binds to the GABA receptors in the brain. “Apigenin acts naturally on the same GABA receptors that many sleep drugs use, but it does so without generating dependence or unwanted side effects.”
Arias highlights the combination of effects, since It helps reduce cortisol (the well-known “stress hormone”) and, at the same time, contributes to increasing melatonin (the “sleep hormone”).
Additionally, it is effective and safe in various groups, including older adults, postpartum women, and people with high levels of stress or anxiety. It is affordable and powerful.
The common varieties of this plant are German Chamomile (Chamomilla recutita) and Roman Chamomile (Chamaemel the noble) y se It is customary to use dried flowers to make infusions to relieve discomfort or as a comforting drink due to its sweet aroma.
Modern findings continue to validate chamomile’s potential as a health promoter. human health, since its chemical composition (terpenoids and flavonoids) supports its wide traditional use against inflammation, digestive problems and insomnia.
How chamomile improves health
Both in drinks and oils, chamomile has been traditionally used for a wide range of ailments, highlighting its healing and preventive properties, according to a published study by Spandidos Publication titled Chamomile: An herbal medicine from the past with a bright future (Review)
- Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic: Useful for inflammation, rheumatic pain and muscle spasms.
- Digestive Health: Applied in the treatment of ulcers, gastrointestinal disorders and hemorrhoids.
- Sleep Disorders and Nerves: Helps combat insomnia.
- Women’s Health: Used to relieve menstrual disorders.
- Topical Treatment: Application to wounds and ulcers.
- Infusion: The most popular and widespread form of consumption.
- Cosmetics and Aromatherapy: Its essential oils are highly valued in these industries.
The popularity of this medicinal herb is on the rise in healthy living trends and a lot has to do with its validated biological effectiveness and its versatility of application.
The study suggests that chamomile represents the successful convergence between traditional herbal knowledge and modern pharmacology.
Terpenoids (such as alpha-bisabolol) and flavonoids (such as apigenin) are bioactive compounds that scientifically explain their anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and sedative effectiveness, The study refers, beyond the fact that it is considered a simple “grandmother’s remedy.”
This infusion, of which millions of cups are consumed, becomes a therapeutic agent with wide social and economic reach.
How much chamomile should you take to improve sleep quality?
The ideal doctor-recommended dose is 2 grams of dried flowers (about a heaping teaspoon) and should be taken 30 minutes before bedtime.
Remember that results are not seen overnight. To reap its benefits, you must consume it frequently, at least for two weeks.
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