Even if we are used to drinking its infusion, we can exploit the properties and benefits of chamomile by using the essential oil or applying it directly to the affected areas
Chamomile has been used for its medicinal properties for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians had dedicated it to Ra, the sun god.
The Egyptians used it to treat malaria, among many ailments. In Germanic mythology, chamomile is one of the 9 sacred herbs that Odin gave to humanity to protect it from evil and disease. In ancient Rome it was a very popular remedy for migraines and urinary infections .
During the Middle Ages, this plant was used in Europe for its diuretic properties and as a tonic to treat pain and fatigue. In South Africa they use it to combat insomnia, low back pain, hysteria , rheumatism and sore throats.
The Greek etymology contains the word “apple”, due to the aroma similar to that of the fruit. Essential oil is used as a basic ingredient in many products.
Its main uses
As calming and hypnotic
One of the best known uses of chamomile tea is as a calming agent, therefore ideal for helping sleep . It is also used to calm hyperactive children and soothe newborns.
Due to its relaxing properties, this medicinal plant is used in many products to treat anxiety.
Against disorders of the digestive system
A common use of chamomile is as an antispasmodic against bloating and intestinal gas; it is indicated to treat colitis and constipation and to relieve the symptoms of indigestion, stomach ache, nausea and vomiting .
Due to its properties, it is useful for treating irritable bowel syndrome and diverticulitis, among the various disorders related to digestive problems.
Against mild infections
Mild infections do not require the use of drugs such as antibiotics and can also be treated with natural and home remedies.
In the case of cystitis, chamomile is used to make douches with hot water. To cure a cold, just inhale the steam. It is useful to prepare poultices or lotions to apply directly to the skin in case of problems. Finally, it can be used to gargle in case of mouth or gum infections or as eye drops in case of conjunctivitis .
Other uses of chamomile
- For hemorrhoids: Used to create ointments that reduce the discomfort of hemorrhoids.
- Against menstrual pains and other spasms: it is boiled in infusions to soothe the pains of menstruation, as well as low back pain and migraine.
- For rheumatism and arthritis, poultices can be done to relieve pain.
- Toothache: ointments and infusions of this medicinal plant relieve gum pain in newborns.
- In case of drug addiction, its infusions reduce withdrawal symptoms.
- Drinking an infusion of this medicinal plant every day is a great way to keep diabetes and blood sugar levels under control.
Natural remedies based on chamomile
Home remedy for menstrual pain
The symptoms of menstrual pain , common to almost all women, can be alleviated by drinking chamomile tea.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of chamomile (15 g)
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
Preparation
- Put the water and chamomile in a saucepan and heat until boiling.
- Let the infusion rest and drink it once it has become lukewarm.
Home remedy for headache
Chamomile tea can be used to make some sort of cocktail to calm the symptoms of anxiety or migraines. This remedy is not recommended for minors.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of white wine (1 liter)
- 3 tablespoons of chamomile flowers (45 g)
Preparation
- Add the chamomile flowers to the white wine and leave to macerate for 10 days.
- After 10 days, you can start the treatment.
- Drink two glasses a day, one in the morning and one in the evening (150ml).
Home remedy for acne
Applying it to the areas of the body affected by acne (especially the face) is a very useful way to alleviate this ailment.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of chamomile (15 g)
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
- Cotton pads
Preparation
- First, pour the water into a saucepan with 20 grams of chamomile and heat over low heat, until boiling.
- Then let it rest for 15 minutes.
- Once the indicated time has elapsed, wet the cotton pads in the infusion and apply them on the area in question, massaging the skin in a circular direction.
- Finally, let it sit until the next shower .
Remedy for digestion
Thanks to essential oils, chamomile is very effective for calming inflammation, cramps, diarrhea and other gastrointestinal disorders.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of chamomile (15 g)
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
- ½ teaspoon of honey (10 g)
Preparation
- First, pour the water into a saucepan and add the chamomile.
- Then heat until boiling.
- Then let the infusion rest .
- Finally, sweeten with honey and drink the warm infusion before meals.
Chamomile has multiple properties that are good for the body, so it is worth drinking the infusion or applying it directly to the affected areas. This medicinal plant helps relieve the annoying symptoms of many diseases.
Don’t hesitate to use it to improve your health!
