Can I drink chamomile tea while on antidepressants?

In this brief guide, we will answer the query, “can I drink chamomile tea while on antidepressants?” and will discuss some potential health benefits of chamomile tea.

Can I drink chamomile tea while on antidepressants?

Yes, you can take chamomile tea while on antidepressants. Traditionally, chamomile has been used as a natural treatment for anxiety and insomnia. Her soothing fragrance makes it one of the most popular teas available today.

An English variety of the herb known as chamomile; the Roman chamomile is one of several varieties of the chamomile plant. German chamomile is the second most prevalent kind. Each has a different way of growing, yet they are all utilized to treat the same health problems.

Chamomile as a medicinal herb

As one of the most frequently used herbal remedies in the western world, chamomile has a long history of usage. As a result of its relaxing qualities and digestive system-soothing effects, many individuals consume chamomile tea.

There are terpenoids and flavonoids in the dried flowers of the chamomile plant that contribute to it being a healing herb.

It is believed that terpenoids, a class of organic compounds naturally generated by plants, are responsible for the distinctive fragrance and flavor of a plant. Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants with anti-inflammatory and immune system effects.

For example, the white and yellow flowers of the Roman chamomile plant are used to produce tea and lotions, as well as extracts. For powder or tea, dried flower heads are utilized. If you steam them, you can get chamomile essential oil, which has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-virus qualities and is considered to decrease swelling.

A few contraindications and adverse effects do exist while using Roman Chamomile in general. As a result, there is no established safe or effective dosage for children at this time.

Chamomile: Health benefits

Roman chamomile’s hypnotic effects, which promote relaxation and may assist induce sleep, may be its most well-known attribute. Chamomile was discovered to have hypnotic properties, reducing the time needed to fall asleep.

As a powerful antioxidant, chamomile is also believed to help boost the immune system, according to research. Chamomile is thought to aid in the battle against the common cold and other illnesses. According to one research study, drinking five cups of tea every day increased antibacterial activity and lowered blood pressure in 14 individuals.

Additionally, Roman chamomile is well-known for its ability to quiet down the digestive tract. As an antispasmodic agent, chamomile is effective in one research. IBS and other GI diseases with spasms can be treated with it. Relaxation of smooth muscles is the mechanism of action of an antispasmodic drug.

Chamomile: Side effects

There are certain adverse effects and contraindications associated with Roman chamomile, despite its reputation as a gentle plant.

·         Toxic effects of chamomile might include nausea and vomiting if taken in high amounts.

·         Applying chamomile to the skin might cause redness and itching in some people.

·         Due to chamomile’s close relationship to the ragweed and other seasonal plants, such as daisies, chrysanthemums, and marigolds, people with seasonal allergies should avoid chamomile.

·         Others report that chamomile relieves asthma symptoms. Chamomile should only be used by those who do not have asthma or any other health problem.

Chamomile: Drugs interaction

·         Cyclosporine users should avoid chamomile, a medication to prevent rejection after an organ transplant.

·         When using chamomile with blood-thinning medications such as warfarin (Coumadin), clopidogrel (Plavix), and aspirin, you run the risk of bleeding.

·         Alcohol, drugs, barbiturates, antidepressants, and some forms of antipsychotics should be avoided by individuals who use chamomile.

·         There’s a possibility that chamomile has an estrogen-like action and interferes with hormone treatment.

·         Antihypertensive (blood pressure-lowering) medicines should be avoided when using chamomile.

·         In some cases, Chamomile can help reduce blood sugar levels. Drinking chamomile tea might exacerbate hypoglycemia in diabetics.

·         There is a risk of interaction with medicines that are also broken down in the liver when chamomile is used.

Contraindications to Chamomile

You should not take chamomile with:

·         Some anti-seizure medications include Dilantin and Depakote

·         Barbiturates

·         Benzodiazepines-These include alprazolam and diazepam, among others

·         Insomnia medications such as Ambien, Sonata, and Lunesta

·         Amitriptyline is an example of a tricyclic antidepressant

·         Other plants with calming properties, such as valerian and kava

·         Coumadin

·         As well as Fexofenadine, birth control pills, and certain antifungal medications that are broken down in the liver

Warnings

 Children, pregnant or nursing mothers, and individuals with liver or renal problems have not been well studied regarding the uses of chamomile.

As a result of the increased risk of bleeding, chamomile usage should be ceased at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery or dental procedures.

Asthma sufferers are advised not to use chamomile since it might aggravate symptoms, according to some authorities.

For safety reasons, it is not recommended that you consume chamomile before driving or operating heavy machinery.

Conclusion

In this brief guide, we answered the query, “can I drink chamomile tea while on antidepressants?” and discussed some potential health benefits of chamomile tea.

References

https://www.healthline.com/health/tea-for-depression#our-picks

https://www.verywellhealth.com/roman-chamomile-4571307 Links

https://www.verywellmind.com/how-is-chamomile-used-for-social-anxiety-3024966

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