A Greek study found chamomile tea consumption lowered the risk of thyroid cancer development.

The study involved 113 patients with thyroid cancers and their dietary habits. Researchers compared their habits from 1990 through to 1993 and made a comparison with 138 people who don’t have the cancer as well as 286 people who had a benign case of thyroid disease. Researchers examined the subjects’ diet, medical history, lifestyle and consumption of beverages like alcohol, coffee and tea.

It was found that the odds of getting thyroid cancer were linked to chamomile tea consumption. The results of drinking daily and weekly showed a pattern. Increasing consumption of chamomile tea led to the decline of the probability of developing thyroid problems.

Specifically, there is a 70% decline in risk for those who drink the tea about two to six times per week and an 80% decrease if the consumption goes on for 30 years, saysco-author of the study, Dr. Athena Linos.