Chamomile tea is a popular herbal remedy that is believed to help improve sleep. It is thought to work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain that promote relaxation and sleep. Here are some of the ways chamomile tea may help improve sleep:
Reduces anxiety:
Chamomile tea contains apigenin, which is a flavonoid that has been shown to have anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties. Apigenin binds to specific receptors in the brain that help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Studies have shown that chamomile tea can help to reduce symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, which can include restlessness, irritability, and difficulty sleeping.
Promotes relaxation:
Chamomile tea contains certain compounds that can help to promote relaxation and reduce tension in the body. One of these compounds is called bisabolol, which has been shown to have a mild sedative effect. Other compounds in chamomile tea, such as flavonoids and terpenoids, also have calming and soothing properties that can help to prepare the body for sleep.
Reduces inflammation:
Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation has been linked to a variety of health problems, including sleep disorders. By reducing inflammation, chamomile tea may be able to improve sleep quality and reduce the risk of sleep disturbances.
Regulates circadian rhythms:
Chamomile tea contains certain compounds, such as flavonoids and apigenin, that can help to regulate the body’s circadian rhythms. These rhythms control the sleep-wake cycle and are important for maintaining healthy sleep patterns. By regulating circadian rhythms, chamomile tea may be able to improve the quality of sleep and reduce the likelihood of waking up during the night.
That’s okay, but what’s the science behind it?
The science behind chamomile tea’s ability to improve sleep quality lies in its chemical composition. Chamomile tea contains several compounds that have been shown to have a calming and sedative effect on the body. Here are some of the key compounds found in chamomile tea and how they work to improve sleep quality:
Apigenin: Chamomile tea contains a flavonoid called apigenin, which has been shown to have anxiolytic properties. Apigenin binds to specific receptors in the brain that help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. This can help to calm the mind and prepare the body for sleep.
Bisabolol: Chamomile tea also contains bisabolol, a terpene that has a mild sedative effect. Bisabolol has been shown to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can help to induce sleepiness and improve sleep quality.
Flavonoids: Chamomile tea contains several flavonoids, including quercetin, luteolin, and apigenin. These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which has been linked to sleep disorders.
Glycine: Chamomile tea contains glycine, an amino acid that has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system. Glycine acts as a neurotransmitter, helping to regulate nerve impulses and promote relaxation.
Volatile oils: Chamomile tea contains volatile oils, including chamazulene and bisabolol oxide, which have a soothing effect on the body. These oils help to reduce tension in the muscles and promote relaxation, which can lead to improved sleep quality.
Overall, the combination of these compounds in chamomile tea works together to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, reduce inflammation, and regulate circadian rhythms, all of which can help to improve sleep quality.
In summary, chamomile tea can help to improve sleep quality in a variety of ways. By reducing anxiety, promoting relaxation, reducing inflammation, and regulating circadian rhythms, chamomile tea may be an effective natural remedy for sleep problems. However, it’s important to remember that individual results may vary, and chamomile tea should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice if you have a serious sleep disorder.
