Chamomile flowers, Chamaemelum nobile, are commonly regarded as a mild tranquiliser or sleep inducer. Its calming effects are attributed to an antioxidant called apigenin found in abundance in the flowers. Apigenin binds specific receptors in your brain that may decrease anxiety and initiate sleep. A 2012 study showed a 50% reduction in anxiety for those who took chamomile extract for 8 weeks. Plus it is non-habit forming.
This tea can be even applied topically as well as drunk, to improve the skin and is said to be good for eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis and some forms of acne, as well as promoting the production of collagen proteins to help speed up the healing process in burns and lesions. Studies have shown that drinking Chamomile tea may increase levels of Hippurate, a natural immune booster, making it easier to fight off illnesses. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, all of which have shown medicinal promise in recent peer-reviewed studies. And our Vet recommended bathing a nasty bite on one of our cats, worked wonders.
It goes without saying that if you're pregnant (or are under the doc for anything) caution should be exercised with herbal decoctions.
