By: Ivana Dragica |
The most healing plants of the world: Chamomile |
|
When you think of healing herbs, chamomile us probably the first thing herb you think of.
Chamomile is a widespread plant in our region, and its tea is certainly one of the favorite drinks.
There are several types of chamomile and the most healing ones are Roman and German chamomile.
In Croatia, German chamomile is the most commonly used type, a plant that is indigenous to Europe and north-west Asia.
Chamomile was revered in ancient Egypt above all other plants for its healing properties. Egyptian noblewoman used its petals in various preparations for beauty.
Greek doctors have recommended chamomile against fever and women's diseases.
Chamomile is one of the "nine sacred plants" in the ancient Anglo - Saxon manuscript called "Lacnunga".
Healing effect of chamomile
Application of chamomile is truly broad, from beauty treatments for treating more serious diseases.
Chamomile has the following properties
- effective against spasms
- anti-inflammatory
- anti-allergic
- antiseptic
- soothes
- is a digestive stimulant
- is a mild analgesic
- effective against menstrual pain
- relaxes muscles
- nourishes problematic skin
- improves liver function
- strengthens hair
Studies have shown that chamomile can be effective against staphylococci and Candida because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
German studies from 1987 have shown that creams containing chamomile promote wound healing.
Another German study on chamomile and four other plants showed that chamomile is effective against colic, ulcers, gastrointestinal spasms and inflammatory problems such as arthritis.
Chamomile flowers contain several organic compounds that alleviate menstrual pain.
Compound apigenin found in chamomile has a soothing effect.
If you pour hot water over chamomile, it releases compounds that ease the symptoms of hay fever, asthma and ulcers and have anti-allergic effects and treats temperature.
Inhaling chamomile steam accelerates the healing of rhinitis and nasal congestion.
Antioxidants from chamomile protect the skin from UV radiation. It contains levomenol which can improve the structure of the skin and reduce wrinkles caused by pollution, stress and sun.
It also helps against acnes, various irritations, rashes and other skin problems, especially purulent wounds.
Baths with chamomile strengthen hair, prevent its falling out, and give it a lighter color and a nice golden glow.
It is said that chamomile can revive every garden, even sick plants. So do not destroy chamomile in your garden, plant it instead.
Chamomile likes soft ground. Plant it in the fall or spring, and pick flowers in June - in the morning after the dew - otherwise it will quickly tan. Chamomile should be dried in shaded places.
Chamomile can be used for making lotions, wraps, dressings, oil, tea and baths.
The chamomile tea
Put 1-2 teaspoons of chamomile flowers into a cup and pour 2.5 ml of boiling water over them, quickly stir, cover and let it stand for at least half an hour. After that, strain the mixture and drink.
Chamomile should never be cooked, only steamed (pour hot water and let it rest).
It is rare, but it is possible to be allergic to chamomile, especially if the person is already allergic to any of the plants from Asteraceae family.
Famous herbalist Maurice Mességué advised to avoid chamomile if other products based on walnuts and cinchona are used. Also, do not use chamomile if you use homeopathic remedies since chamomile blocks their absorption.
Otherwise, you can drink it every day, because it has no side effects.
Chamomile tea is recommended to people who suffer from stomach disorders, spasms, bladder disorders, menstrual pain, diarrhea, intestinal pains etc.
Chamomile wraps
Pour 1/4 of boiling water over 1 full teaspoon of chamomile, leave to stand for a short time, strain and make hot wraps.
Chamomile wraps are used for lowering the temperature, for treating dark circles under eyes and for treating eye infections as well as for faster healing of wounds.
Chamomile bath
Pour a liter of boiling water over 100 grams of chamomile. Strain and dilute with 30 liters of hot water.
This bath is great for constipation, bladder inflammation, stomach problems and hemorrhoids.
Chamomile oil
Refill a container of 1 liter with chamomile flowers and pour 1 liter of quality base oil (for example, olive oil).
Leave the mixture to stand for two weeks, then strain into a glass bottle, close it and store in a dark place. Oil can be used for a long time - there is no limit to the length of therapy.
Chamomile oil has a great effect on rheumatism, joint pain and temperature.
Due to the calming effect, it is also recommended against bronchitis and asthma. This oil can be used for treating skin changes, such as inflammations and allergies. Furthermore, it helps against pimples and acne.
Chamomile is rightly called the queen of herbs. Take advantage of its healing effects and provide yourself with a natural care!
Liked the article?
Share it with your friends!
