How Long Does it Take for Chamomile Tea to Work? (Easy Guide)
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Are you looking for a way to relax and get a good night’s sleep? If so, chamomile tea may be just what you need. Chamomile is known for its calming and relaxing properties, which is why it’s often used as a bedtime herbal tea. But how long does it take for chamomile to work?
My oldest son is obsessed with hot tea. He loves to try different teas and even enjoys the “bedtime” or “sleepytime” tea, so we always try to have some on hand. We use the Keurig to heat up the water and then he just puts in his tea bag, steeps it and makes the tea to his liking (he’s 12).
How Long Does it Take for Chamomile Tea to Work?
Generally, chamomile tea usually takes 30-45 minutes to work. This means that you should drink the tea at least 30 minutes before you want to go to bed.
The effects of chamomile are not immediate, nor does it work like a sleeping pill and knock you out. Instead, chamomile tea will help you relax and may even make you drowsy, which can aid in falling asleep.
If you find that chamomile tea isn’t working for you, there are a few things you can try. First, make sure that you’re drinking the tea at least 30 minutes before bedtime. You may also want to try a different brand of tea or add honey to sweeten it. Some people also find that drinking chamomile tea before taking a warm bath helps them relax even more and fall asleep faster.
Whatever you do, don’t give up on chamomile tea! It’s a natural remedy that has helped many people get a good night’s sleep. I find that it works for me and my family.
My sons really love the Sleepytime Tea from Celestial Seasonings, which lists chamomile as the first ingredient. They have several varieties and we can find them a lot of times at our local stores. We did have to order Sleepytime Vanilla from Amazon since that’s my oldest son’s favorite, but now we have enough to last a long time!
Chamomile Tea Benefits (Why it Helps You Sleep)
Chamomile tea is made from the dried chamomile flower of the plant with the same name. There are a couple of different types of chamomile: German Chamomile and Roman Chamomile.
Both types of chamomile have the same health benefits and are used for relaxation. They do have slightly different flavors, but most brands of tea will not list which type of chamomile they are using.
Chamomile has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments, including anxiety, insomnia, and digestive issues. Chamomile tea is still commonly consumed today for its calming and relaxing effects.
Here are some of the best known benefits of chamomile tea from Medical News Today:
Reducing Menstrual Pain
Lowering Blood Sugar
Slowing or Preventing Osteoporosis
Reducing Inflammation
Cancer Treatment and Prevention
Treating Cold Symptoms
Treatment for Mild Skin Conditions
Helping with Sleep and Relaxation
Of course it’s this last one that we are concerned with in this article, and we are looking at how long it takes before you feel the relaxation from chamomile tea and for it to help you fall asleep.
Tips for those looking to try chamomile tea for the first time
Start with a small cup of tea and see how you feel after drinking it. If you don’t like the taste, add honey or lemon.
Don’t drink chamomile tea right before bedtime. Drink it 30-45 minutes before you want to sleep.
If you don’t like the taste of chamomile tea by itself, try a blend such as Sleepytime Tea or Sleepytime Vanilla. These are delicious.
Chamomile tea is generally safe for most people. However, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have any other health conditions, talk to your doctor before drinking chamomile tea.
Common Questions about Chamomile Tea
There is some scientific evidence to support the claim that chamomile tea can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. One study showed that people who drank chamomile tea over the long term had significantly lower levels of anxiety than those who didn’t drink the tea.
Chamomile tea is generally considered safe with few side effects. The most common side effects are drowsiness and upset stomach. If you experience any other side effects, stop drinking the tea and talk to your doctor.
There is no recommended dose of chamomile tea, but most experts suggest drinking 1-2 cups per day. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before drinking chamomile tea.
Yes, it is safe to drink chamomile tea every day. However, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before drinking chamomile tea.
There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that chamomile tea helps with weight loss.
No, chamomile tea does not make you groggy in the morning. Chamomile tea is non-habit forming and does not contain caffeine.
The best time to drink chamomile tea is 30-45 minutes before you want to sleep if you are taking it to relax before bed.
Final Thoughts
So, how long does it take for chamomile tea to work?
Chamomile tea is a safe and effective way to promote relaxation and sleep. It takes 30-45 minutes for the effects of chamomile tea to be felt, so drink it about 30 minutes before you want to go to bed.
Chamomile tea is generally safe for most people with few side effects. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have any other health conditions, talk to your doctor before drinking chamomile tea.
Here’s to better sleep the natural way!
How to Brew the Perfect Cup of Chamomile Tea (Chamomile Tea Recipe)
Ingredients
- 1 tsp dried chamomile flowers or 1 chamomile tea bag
- 1 cup boiling water
- honey optional
- lemon optional
Instructions
- Bring water to a boil and remove from heat.
- Add chamomile flowers (or tea bag) to cup.
- Pour hot water over chamomile and let steep for 3-5 minutes.
- Add honey and lemon to taste, if desired.
- Enjoy your cup of chamomile tea! You can even pour it over iced and try iced chamomile tea if you aren't into hot tea.
