Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) Tips & Tricks

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is a well-known medicinal herb that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of health conditions. Here are seven medicinal uses of chamomile:

1. Anxiety and Stress: Chamomile has calming and relaxing properties that can help to reduce anxiety and stress. Drinking chamomile tea before bed is a popular remedy for promoting relaxation and better sleep. Here are a few ways to take chamomile for anxiety and stress:

• Chamomile tea: One of the easiest ways to take chamomile is by brewing chamomile tea. Simply steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers in hot water for 5-10 minutes. You can drink the tea up to three times a day, preferably before bed to promote relaxation and better sleep.
• Chamomile essential oil: Chamomile essential oil can be used aromatically to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. You can add a few drops of chamomile essential oil to a diffuser, or mix it with a carrier oil (such as coconut or almond oil) and apply it to the skin.
• Chamomile supplements: Chamomile is also available in supplement form, such as capsules or tinctures. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements, as they may interact with other medications or health conditions.
• Chamomile bath: Taking a chamomile-infused bath can also help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Simply add a few drops of chamomile essential oil or a handful of dried chamomile flowers to warm bathwater.

2. Digestive Issues: Chamomile has been traditionally used to treat digestive issues such as bloating, indigestion, and stomach cramps. It can help to soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation.Here are some different ways to take chamomile to help with digestive issues:

• Chamomile tea: One of the most common ways to take chamomile is by drinking chamomile tea. Simply steep one or two teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of hot water for around five minutes. Drink up to three cups per day.

• Chamomile capsules: Capsules containing chamomile extract are available at health food stores and pharmacies. Follow the instructions on the label for dosage.

• Chamomile tincture: A tincture of chamomile can be added to water or juice and taken orally. Follow the instructions on the label for dosage which has be prescribed by a qualified Naturopath.

3. Skin Inflammation: Chamomile can be applied topically to soothe skin inflammation and irritation. It can help to reduce redness, swelling, and itching. Chamomile is known for its anti-inflammatory and calming properties, which make it a great natural remedy for skin inflammation. Here are some ways to make a chamomile remedy for skin inflammation:

• Chamomile tea compress: Brew a strong chamomile tea by steeping 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes. Let the tea cool down to room temperature, then soak a clean cloth in the tea and apply it to the inflamed area for 10-15 minutes.
• Chamomile-infused oil: Infuse chamomile flowers in a carrier oil such as coconut or almond oil. To do this, fill a jar with dried chamomile flowers and pour the carrier oil over them until they are fully covered. Let the mixture sit for a few weeks, shaking it occasionally. Strain the oil and apply it directly to the inflamed skin..
• Chamomile and oatmeal mask: Mix equal parts of chamomile tea and ground oatmeal to create a paste. Apply the mixture to the affected area and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.
• Chamomile and honey mask: Mix chamomile tea with raw honey to form a paste. Apply the mixture to the inflamed skin and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.

Remember to do a patch test before applying chamomile remedies to your skin, and if you experience any adverse reactions, stop using it immediately. If your skin inflammation persists or worsens, consult a healthcare professional.

4. Menstrual Cramps: Chamomile can be used to alleviate menstrual cramps and discomfort during menstruation. It can help to relax the uterus and reduce inflammation. Here are some remedies for taking chamomile for menstrual cramping:

• Chamomile tea: Drinking chamomile tea can help relax the uterus and reduce inflammation, which in turn can help ease menstrual cramps. Simply steep one or two teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of hot water for around 5-10 minutes. Drink up to three cups per day.
• Chamomile essential oil: Chamomile essential oil can be added to a warm bath or used in a massage oil to help ease menstrual cramps. Add a few drops of chamomile essential oil to a carrier oil such as coconut or almond oil and massage the abdomen in a circular motion.
• Chamomile and ginger tea: Ginger is another natural remedy that can help alleviate menstrual cramps. Combining chamomile and ginger in a tea can be a powerful remedy for menstrual cramping. Steep one teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers and one teaspoon of grated fresh ginger in a cup of hot water for around five minutes. Drink up to three cups per day.
• Chamomile and lavender aromatherapy: Aromatherapy with chamomile and lavender can help relax the mind and body, which can help alleviate menstrual cramps. Add a few drops of chamomile and lavender essential oil to a diffuser or inhale the aroma directly from the bottle.

Remember to talk to your healthcare provider before taking chamomile or any other supplement to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.

5. Insomnia: Chamomile tea can also help to improve sleep quality and reduce insomnia. Its calming properties can help to promote relaxation and a restful night's sleep. Here are some remedies for taking chamomile to help with insomnia:

• Chamomile tea: Drinking chamomile tea before bed can help relax the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep. Simply steep one or two teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of hot water for around five minutes. Drink one hour before bedtime.
• Chamomile aromatherapy: Inhaling the aroma of chamomile essential oil can help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, which can lead to better sleep. Add a few drops of chamomile essential oil to a diffuser or inhale the aroma directly from the bottle.
• Chamomile and lavender tea: Lavender is another herb that is known for its calming properties. Combining chamomile and lavender in a tea can be a powerful remedy for insomnia. Steep one teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers and one teaspoon of dried lavender flowers in a cup of hot water for around five minutes. Drink one hour before bedtime.
• Chamomile and lemon balm tea: Lemon balm is another herb that can help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. Combining chamomile and lemon balm in a tea can be a powerful remedy for insomnia. Steep one teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers and one teaspoon of dried lemon balm leaves in a cup of hot water for around five minutes. Drink one hour before bedtime.

6. Cold and Flu: Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help to relieve symptoms of cold and flu such as sore throat, cough, and fever. Here are some remedies for taking chamomile for colds and flus:

• Chamomile tea: Drinking chamomile tea can help soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation, which can help alleviate cold and flu symptoms. Simply steep one or two teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of hot water for around five minutes. Drink up to three cups per day.
• Chamomile steam: Inhaling chamomile steam can help relieve congestion and ease breathing. Add a few drops of chamomile essential oil to boiling water, place a towel over your head, and inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes.
• Chamomile and Manuka honey tea: Manuka honey is another natural remedy that can help soothe a sore throat and cough. Combining chamomile and Manuka honey in a tea can be a powerful remedy for cold and flu symptoms. Steep one teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of hot water for around five minutes, then add a teaspoon of Manuka honey. Drink up to three cups per day.
• Chamomile and fresh ginger tea: Ginger is another natural remedy that can help alleviate cold and flu symptoms. Combining chamomile and fresh ginger in a tea can be a powerful remedy for cold and flu symptoms. Steep one teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers and one teaspoon of grated fresh ginger in a cup of hot water for around five minutes. Drink up to three cups per day.

7. Wound Healing: Chamomile can also be used topically to promote wound healing. It can help to reduce inflammation, prevent infection, and stimulate the growth of new tissue. Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that make it a great natural remedy for wound healing. Here's how to use chamomile for wound healing:

• Chamomile tea compress: Brew a strong chamomile tea by steeping 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes. Let the tea cool down to room temperature, then soak a clean cloth in the tea and apply it to the wound for 10-15 minutes. Repeat this process a few times a day to help speed up the healing process.
• Chamomile-infused oil: Infuse chamomile flowers in a carrier oil such as coconut or almond oil. To do this, fill a jar with dried chamomile flowers and pour the carrier oil over them until they are fully covered. Let the mixture sit for a few weeks, shaking it occasionally. Strain the oil and apply it directly to the wound to promote healing and reduce inflammation.
• Chamomile and honey ointment: Mix chamomile tea with raw honey to create an ointment that can help soothe and heal wounds. Simply steep one teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of hot water for around five minutes, then mix in a teaspoon of raw honey. Apply the mixture to the wound and cover it with a clean bandage.

Remember to clean the wound thoroughly before applying any chamomile remedies, and seek medical attention if the wound is deep or severe. If you experience any adverse reactions, stop using chamomile and consult a healthcare professional.