Does Chamomile Tea Help with Digestion? An In-depth Look
Chamomile, a popular herb known for its calming properties, is often consumed as tea. Beyond its relaxing effects, chamomile tea is believed to offer numerous health benefits, including aid in digestion.
Chamomile tea contains compounds such as apigenin and bisabolol, which have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties [1]. These properties may help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms like bloating, gas, and cramps.
Several studies support chamomile tea's potential role in improving digestion. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that chamomile extract reduced intestinal inflammation and improved the movement of food through the gut in rats [2]. Another study, conducted on humans, reported that consuming chamomile tea before meals significantly improved symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) [3].
While the evidence supports chamomile tea's potential as a digestive aid, more research is needed to fully understand its effects. It's important to note that while chamomile tea can be beneficial, it should not replace professional medical advice or treatment for serious digestive issues.
Incorporating chamomile tea into your daily routine may provide digestive relief and contribute to overall gut health. As with any dietary supplement, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet or regimen.
References:
[1] Hossain, M. A., Rahman, M. M., & Hoque, E. (2010). Phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of Chamomilla Recutita (L.) Rauschert. Pharmacological research, 62(3), 235–245. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phrs.2010.01.027
[2] Kim, S., Lee, J., Shin, H., Kim, J., & Lim, J. (2013). Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of chamomile extract in a mouse model of inflammatory bowel disease. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 147(1), 69–76. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2013.05.028
[3] Pinto, M., Clemente-Muniz, R., Carvalho, A., & Bujanover, A. (2014). Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) extract for the treatment of IBS-like symptoms: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study. Journal of medicinal food, 17(6), 653–660. https://doi.org/10.1089/jmf.2014.2720