Chamomile for stress and sleep quality

Chamomile, the herb for state anxiety and sleep quality Chamomile is a warm beverage for cold, winter afternoons with great flavor and aroma.

Usually, we only remember it when we are cold but the truth is that chamomile is not just a drink for flew but a safe drink that can be incorporated into a healthy and balanced diet.

Scientists from Nagasaki University (Japan, 2019) evaluated the results of studies as well as performed meta – analysis of trials on patients who were given chamomile orally.

The results of the studies showed an improvement in the sleep quality for those who receiving chamomile as compared with placebo.

Sleep quality was assessed with the PSQI (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index) and the PSQS (Postpartum Sleep Quality Scale). The first index is an effective measurement in adult subjects taking into account many criteria such as sleep duration, possible drug intake, sleep latency and other parameters while the latter concerns postnatal women.

Five randomized clinical trials on anxiety and six on sleep quality in a total of 965 patients aged 26 - 75 who were either suffering from syndrome or suffering from various etiologies showed positive results after receiving chamomile.

Although, the exact biological activity of chamomile is not known, it is believed that apigenin has a sedative effect and acts to alleviate anxiety and therefore sleep quality. Apigenin flavonoid can directly bind to the brain specifically the benzodiazepine receptors and result in these tranquillizing effects.

State anxiety and sleep disturbances constitute a threat that can increase the risk of mortality especially in vulnerable groups. Researchers and physicians are highly encouraged to study herbs for further data especially when all existing studies agree that chamomile proves to be a safe herb to improve sleep quality and state anxiety.