Chamomile tea is a popular herbal tea used as a stress reliever and sleep aid since ancient times. But how long does it take for chamomile tea to work?
If you’re interested in trying out this relaxing herb, this guide will explain some things you should know about how long it takes for chamomile to work.
We’ll also discuss information about the common questions about chamomile tea, its caffeine content, and what it does for your body.
Let’s dive right in!
What is Chamomile Tea?
Chamomile tea is a herbal infusion with a delicately flowery and sweet taste. Thanks to its adaptability, you can drink it hot or cold.
Some chamomile lovers may even create their recipes by adding spices like cinnamon, flowers like lavender, or roots like ginger to the drink.
You can steep chamomile tea for longer than the recommended time if you like a stronger flavor.
The chamomile flavor and aroma are easy to include in mixed drinks. For example, chamomile’s floral flavor complements the gin in a cocktail with lemon and honey.
Also Read: What Does Milk Tea Taste Like?
Where Does Chamomile Come From?
Chamomile is a flowering plant that grows in Europe, North America, and Australia.
Chamomile comes from two different species of plants: Matricaria recutita and Chamaemelum nobilis (also known as Roman chamomile).
While both species have similar properties, they taste slightly different when used to make tea because of their characteristics.
The Caffeine Content of Chamomile Tea
While you may be tempted to believe otherwise, chamomile tea is actually caffeine-free. Here’s why.
The Asteraceae plant family is where you’ll find the daisy-like blossoms used to make the herb chamomile.
The common daisy is a member of this plant family, which also contains Chrysanthemums and sunflowers.
Caffeine is not present in any plant used to make tea besides Camellia Sinensis.
However, there are some notable exceptions to this rule: Yerba mate. Regardless, the general rule still applies.
Tea derived from any plant other than the Camellia Sinensis plant is technically not tea.
That’s why chamomile and other similar beverages are called herbal infusions, tisanes, or herbal teas, not just “tea.”
Also Read: Chai Tea Caffeine Vs. Coffee Caffeine Compared!
How Long Does it Take for Chamomile Tea to Work?
Remember that the time it takes for chamomile tea to work depends on how much you drink.
For example, if you’re drinking 1 cup daily, the tea should take 20 minutes to start working.
If you’re drinking 2 cups daily, it’ll take roughly 40 minutes for the effects of the tea to begin taking hold.
But those who have experienced insomnia or anxiety disorders may experience different reactions.
That’s because your body may be used to being awake at night and sleeping during daylight hours (or vice versa).
As such, if you drink chamomile before bed and try sleeping after, nothing may happen for the next 20-40 minutes.
That can be disappointing if you want to get a good night’s sleep.
How Long Does It Take for Chamomile Tea to Work: Chamomile Tea Benefits
Chamomile has several health benefits. Here are some chamomile tea benefits you should know:
1. Chamomile Tea Has Anti-Inflammatory Qualities.
Chamomile tea has been shown to alleviate inflammation symptoms because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
Chamomile’s anti-inflammatory and painkilling properties make it a good choice for people with chronic inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
2. Helps With Cold Symptoms
Chamomile tea is another fantastic natural treatment for the common cold. In addition, drinking chamomile tea may help ease cold symptoms when you’re under the weather.
3. Good for Your Cardiovascular Health
The heart-healthy benefits of chamomile are well-documented. Research on chamomile’s potential health benefits for the heart is still in its early stages.
But studies suggest that it may be suitable for people with heart conditions to drink chamomile tea.
4. Prevents or Slows the Onset of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis occurs when there is a progressive loss of bone density over time. An increased likelihood of bone fractures and stooped posture results from this loss.
While anybody is at risk, postmenopausal women have a higher incidence of osteoporosis. So estrogen’s potential influence on this behavior can’t be discounted.
A 2004 research suggests that chamomile tea could have anti-estrogenic effects. However, the authors note that more research is needed to confirm this apparent benefit.
5. Decreases Menstrual Pain
Chamomile tea has been shown in multiple studies to ease menstrual cramps.
For instance, one study from 2010 found that regular consumption of chamomile tea for 30 days could alleviate the discomfort of menstrual cramps.
The anxiety and distress that women usually feel during their periods were reduced in this study.
Common Questions about Chamomile Tea
There are numerous common questions about chamomile tea. Below, we’ll go through some of the important questions that may help you in your chamomile tea journey:
1. How Effective is Chamomile Tea for Calming You Down?
The idea that chamomile tea helps ease stress and promote calm has some scientific backing. For example, a study showed that long-term chamomile tea drinkers reported much less anxiety than those who didn’t drink it.
2. What are the Negative Effects of Drinking Chamomile Tea?
In most cases, you can drink chamomile tea without worrying about unwanted negative effects. Drowsiness and stomach distress are the most often reported adverse effects.
However, if you experience any side effects, stop drinking chamomile tea and consult your doctor.
3. What is the Right Amount of Chamomile Tea to Drink?
There is no set dosage for drinking chamomile tea. However, it’s advisable to drink 1-2 cups daily.
However, if you’re breastfeeding or pregnant, consult your doctor before drinking chamomile tea.
Final Thoughts
So how long does it take for chamomile tea to work? If you’re looking for a natural alternative to sleep aids, chamomile tea is a good choice.
It’s full of calming properties that can help you relax and fall asleep faster.
The caffeine content of the average cup of chamomile tea is low, around 5 milligrams.
So it won’t interfere with your body’s natural ability to fight off drowsiness by stimulating your nervous system.
The taste might take some getting used to. For example, chamomile tea has an earthy flavor that might be bitter if you’ve never tried it before.
But you can prepare it in a way to mask the bitterness.