The delicate, daisy-like Chamomile is more than just gentle flower power for calming the nerves and soothing an upset stomach (though who could forget the tale of Peter Rabbit, who received a comforting dose of chamomile tea after his upsetting garden adventure?)
Chamomile is indeed a cherished herb in households worldwide, and for good reason. From its mention in ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman medical texts to its inclusion in modern-day pharmacopeias across the globe, you’ll find this botanical wonder is a vital ingredient in tea blends, hair, and skin care preparations, as well as herbal formulations. But what else can Chamomile do for you?
Chamomile: A Herb for Every Occasion
The versatility of Chamomile is nothing short of remarkable. Whether fresh, dried, powdered, or tinctured, the aromatic flower is your modern-day wellness ally. Herbal guides cite Chamomile to:
- Relieve gas, bloating, and other digestive discomforts associated with overeating and occasional nervous indigestion. (Herbalist Hint: It is especially great for the kiddos, too, if they overdid it on junk food and candy.)
- Soothe the gastrointestinal system
- Gently promote sleep
- Support respiratory health
- Support relaxation and ease tension when under occasional stress
- Relieve muscle cramps
- Temporarily alleviates menstrual cramping
- Soothe the skin
Unlock the Power of Chamomile: 5 Easy Ways to Use It Daily
Now that we know Chamomile is an essential remedy for the herbal kit, here are five fun and easy ways you can use it for daily wellness:
- Infusion
Brew a fragrant tea after dinner, during the day, or right before bed – anytime you need relaxing relief.
Pour 1 cup of boiling water over ½ to 1 teaspoonful of herb. Allow to steep for approximately 3-5 minutes or to desired preference. Strain; can add honey and/or lemon to taste.
2. Latte
Indulge in this comforting chamomile drink, a perfect option for when you’re craving a creamy concoction in a mug.
Steep 1 ½ – 2 teaspoons dried cut herb in ½ cup water for 7-10 minutes. Strain when done. At the same time, heat – do not boil – ½ cup milk of your choice; add honey or sweetener and whisk until it becomes frothy (some nut milks may not get as frothy). Add steamed milk to tea brew and enjoy!
3. Inhalant
A steam inhalation is a soothing experience for sinus and overall respiratory wellness.
In a heat-safe bowl, place approximately one teaspoon of dried Chamomile in 3 ounces of boiling water. When you can, safely hold your head over steam and cover it with a towel to form a “tent.” Close your eyes and inhale deeply for at least 10 minutes.
4. Bath Herb
Elevate your bath routine when you add chamomile flowers for relaxation of both mind and skin.
Put a handful of whole Chamomile flowers in a large sachet or cotton drawstring bag and tie it to the tap while the tub fills up. Once filled, place the bag in water and soak away the stresses of the day.
5. Sleep Pillow
Create an aromatic and restful sleep space with a sachet filled with Chamomile.
Place it under your pillow to quietly calm jangled nerves. Add lavender, hops, or lemon balm for a dreamy blend.
How else can you harness the age-old benefits of Chamomile? See previous newsletters that show you how to use the flowers for cooling summer relief and how to make a salve and other herbal preparations using Chamomile and other herbs. How do you use Chamomile?
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