The chamomile plant produces small flowers with white petals and yellow cone-shaped centers. The dried flowers of German chamomile, the most common variety of the herb, make a flavorful tea that individuals have used for centuries to treat a wide range of presenting issues, though the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine claims that there is scant evidence to support the use of chamomile for any condition.
To obtain the full benefits of chamomile tea, drink three to four cups per day between meals, recommends the University of Maryland Medical Center. Brew chamomile tea by pouring a cup of boiling water over 2 to 3 heaping tablespoons of dried chamomile. Allow the tea to steep for 15 minutes then enjoy.
Calming Agent
Studies on animals suggest that chamomile tea can reduce anxiety and promote sleep, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. In fact, chamomile tea's mild sedative effect is the primary reason for its use in the United States. Low doses of the tea may relieve anxiety while higher doses encourage sleep.
Muscle Relaxant
When drinking chamomile tea, you increase the level of glycine in the body. Glycine is an amino acid that relieves muscle spasms. Chamomile can help relax muscles as well, especially the smooth muscles in the digestive system. It may help reduce stomach cramping, indigestion, gas and diarrhea. It seems to hold promise for treating irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, chamomile can have a muscle-relaxing effect on the uterus, and thus help relieve menstrual cramps.
Fight Infection
Chamomile tea causes a significant increase in hippurate in the urine, which is related to the body's increased antibacterial activity. Such activity appears to boost the immune system, explains the American Chemical Society, helping the body fight infections associated with a cold.
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