Introduction
In my continued search for natural pain remedies, I found that chamomile tea is recommended. Read further to find out about the health benefits of chamomile tea, with emphasis on pain relief.
What is Chamomile Tea?
Chamomile tea is made from the flower of a herb plant. It looks a bit like a daisy. It is a member of the Asteraceae family of flowers, which also include marigolds, echinacea, and sunflowers.
The petals and buds of the flower are dried to make the product that we normally see on the shelf. I learned from my research that Chamomile and other herbal teas are not really teas but are called tisanes. That is because they aren’t actually a product of the tea plant. However, for this article, I am going to refer to it as chamomile tea.
Because they aren’t teas, they usually don’t contain caffeine. Therefore they can be a “safe” afternoon and evening drink because they won’t keep you awake. That is good news for those of us who are sensitive to caffeine but enjoy a warm drink in the later hours. In fact, not only am I enjoying this for managing my pain, but I am using it to sleep better.
Why is it Good for Pain?
The secret of the pain relief benefits appear to come from the chemical properties of the flower. Some of these chemicals are anti-inflammatory. Inflammation has been linked to pain. Inflammation can cause nerve pain, which is what I have. Therefore something like chamomile that reduces inflammation should reduce pain!
I wrote an article on the benefits of the blueberry; which is another antioxidant. Read my article Pain and the Antioxidants in a Blueberry. I am obviously of the opinion that we should do all we can to maximize our body’s capability to heal itself. This is a natural way to do so, and of course there are other benefits from these healthy options.
A scientific article from the National Institutes of Health discusses the health benefits of chamomile. It is titled Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with bright future. Apparently more research is needed to back up the various claims. But it has been around since ancient times, so there must be some truth to its healing properties.
So basically chamomile reduces inflammation which then reduces pain. If you have pain caused by inflammation, chamomile may be helpful to manage your pain.
How to Use it for Pain
The primary use of chamomile is in a tea. There are a wide variety of options available. I am able to purchase it at my local grocery store. Other options would be health food stores and online stores. Below I have provided a link where you can order it as well.
Secondly, you can also apply the tea directly to the skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties can treat skin conditions. I have heard it can be used for helping the skin to look healthier. Tired eyes? Put a cool wet tea bag on each eye.
Other Uses
There are essential oils available as well that can be used topically or diffused. Do not take these oils internally. The essential oil should be diluted by a carrier oil. It also has antibacterial properties, so it can be used to treat wounds.
In addition, there is a chamomile extract available, which can be ingested. Please make sure it is the extract, and not the essential oil. The extract can be used to treat depression and gastrointestinal issues, among other things. Some claim it can help boost your immune system.
I have also seen it recommended by a dentist to reduce swelling after a tooth extraction. It also has a calming property that helps manage the pain. Just use a cooled bag after it’s been brewed. Looks to me like chamomile has many uses! Drink the tea and use the cooled tea bag! Use the essential oil or extract for other issues.
Chamomile seems like a jack of all trades! I’m recommending it to my friend with edema, to see if the cooled tea bags reduce his swelling and spots.
Who Can Use Chamomile?
Since the tea, extracts and essential oils can be used to treat so many conditions, almost anyone can use them! But see the possible side effects below. I even saw it recommended for teething babies by rubbing it on the gums.
However, one site said to use the essential oil, which I believe is wrong. Check with your pediatrician to make sure what is safe.
You Can Purchase Chamomile Tea Here
I have an affiliate link here through Thrive Market. Thrive Market is a great online grocery option. If you purchase the tea through this link, I receive a small referral fee. Buy it through this link from Thrive Market.
Possible Side Effects
Precautions should be taken in these instances:
- Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use this tea
- Certain drugs interact with chamomile, so consult your doctor
- People who have hay fever and flower allergies should avoid this tea
- In large doses, it can relax you so much that you shouldn’t operate heavy machinery or drive a car
Disclaimer
I am not a medical or health care professional. I encourage you to contact your health care provider should you have questions about this product. Though it is natural, some people may experience side effects, as I noted in the above section.
Conclusions
I am drinking this tea regularly. Pretty sure it has improved my sleep. I can’t yet comment on its effect on my pain. Have you tried it for pain? Please comment about your experience. What have you used it for? This would be helping all of us in the chronic pain community. Lastly, I welcome any questions you have as well.
