The Benefits of Chamomile (German)
Chamomile is a gentle herb known throughout most of the world, mainly for promoting relaxation and supporting digestive health, which has been used for many centuries. It is commonly ingested as a tea for calming and comforting, and to soothe the digestive tract. It is mild enough to be used on babies. It is soothing to the skin and is often found in beauty products. Personally, I love it in a cup of tea before bed or added to my foot soak for extra relaxation.
However, chamomile also has other helpful benefits and uses you may not be aware of.
Let’s take more of a look at this wonderful plant.
Matricaria recutita
Botanical family: Asteraceae or Compositae (daisy)
Plant origin: Utah, Egypt, Hungary
Plant: It is known in commerce as Matricaria recutita and by its synonym Matricaria chamomilla. Common names include German chamomile, Hungarian chamomile, mayweed, sweet false chamomile, and true chamomile.
A member of the Asteraceae family, these aromatic herbaceous plants have white daisy like flowers and scent reminiscent of apples or pineapple
The common name "chamomile" is derived from the Greek word kamai which translates to "on the ground" and melon which means apple
Accordingly, the Spanish name Manzanilla, means "little apple."
M. chamomilla is an annual that can grow up to 24 inches whereas the similar C. nobile is a perennial low growing groundcover growing no more than ten inches high.
M. chamomilla is native to Europe and western Asia.
History of Use: Chamomile was used in ancient Egypt and was given as an offering to their gods.
Chamomile has been utilized extensively in Europe as somewhat of a panacea which supported digestive health. Common preparations were teas, baths and sitzbaths, gargles, inhalations, and compresses.
Germans refer to this herb as alles zutraut meaning 'capable of anything.'
In the Mexican folkloric tradition, manzanilla was used to support healthy respiratory function and for soothing the stomach and easing digestion.
In southern Mexico, the Tzeltal Maya make a chamomile tea containing an orange and a lime leaf to lift the mood.
Native Americans have used this and related species since their introduction to the Americas, often utilizing the entire plant. The Aleut drank teas to alleviate gas, and also considered the plant a cure-all. Drinking the tea was a Cherokee trick for "regularity." The Kutenai and Cheyenne got creative, the former making jewelry and the later, perfume, out of the pulverized dry flowers.
Chamomile has magical implications for attracting money and, accordingly, as a hand rinse for gamblers needing good luck
Cosmetically has also been used as a rinse for accentuating highlights and lightening blonde hair
Topically has an emollient effect and is softening and soothing to the skin
Has also been used as a perfume and flavoring agent for liqueurs such as Benedictine and vermouth
According to an herbalist Matthew Becker, the type of person who responds best to chamomile is one "who complains often…for fretful children…and for adults who act like children."
The genus name Matricaria stems from the Latin word matrix meaning 'womb' hinting at its beneficial effects for women.
Chamomile possesses what Rosemary Gladstar describes as "soft power" to assuage occasional stress and tension. She suggests not only sipping chamomile tea while bathing in it, but also tucking a chamomile sachet under the pillow at night to promote restful sleep.
As Essential Oil:
Extraction method: Steam distilled from flowers.
Constituent Action: sedating, calming, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, decongestant. Supports digestive, liver, and gallbladder function, reduces scarring, and relieves allergies.
Traditional uses: German chamomile has been highly esteemed for over 3,000 years and has been used for many types of skin conditions and stress-related complaints.
Indications: insomnia, nervous tension, stress, bursitis, tendonitis, inflammation, carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches, acne, liver and gallbladder disease, parasites, and ulcers.
Other known uses: German chamomile is a cleanser of the blood, helps increase liver function and secretion, supports the pancreas. Promotes regeneration of the skin.
Fragrant influence: Dispels anger, stabilizes emotions, and helps release emotions linked to the past. May also be used to soothe and clear the mind.
Cooking/Food Uses:
Has a clean and floral aroma with a refreshing and simple flavor with notes of sweet citrus.
An aromatic and flavorful tea can be made from whole organic chamomile flowers that is great after dinner and especially useful just before bed. Traditionally used for helping children ease into sleep.
Brew Instructions for Chamomile Tea:
Fill 1 teaspoon of tea in a cloth tea bag or mesh basket and place in your favorite mug.
Pour 8 ounces of boiling water over the tea and allow to steep for 3-5 minutes.
Experiment with steep time and quantity of tea and find your ideal cup!
HINT: I like adding a bit of vanilla extract and a little local honey for a smooth and soothing cup of tea before bed
Precautions
Those with allergies to members of the Asteraceae family should exercise caution with chamomile.
*This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only.
So, did you learn anything about chamomile? What is something you didn’t know before?
Let us know in the comments and especially if you try out the tea!
Until next time,
~ Crystal