There are many different species of chamomile, the two most common are German Chamomile (Marticaria recutita) and Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile). The flowers have been used since ancient times for their calming and anti-inflammatory properties.
A chamomile ointment can be used for haemorrhoids, skin ulcers and wounds. Chamomile lotion can also soothe mosquito bites and skin rashes including eczema.
Chamomile tea can relieve restlessness, teething problems and colic in children. Try adding chamomile tea bags or the essential oil to your bath to ease the itch from eczema and other rashes. Its anti-inflammatory action may speed healing and prevent bacterial infection.
As a tea or extract, chamomile promotes general relaxation and relieves stress. Its mildly sedating and muscle-relaxing effects may help those who suffer from insomnia to fall asleep more easily.
Chamomile also aids digestion when taken as a tea after meals and assists with gastro-intestinal problems due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic actions.
In the time leading up to the holiday and festive season life can get stressful and frantic. It’s important to recognised the signs of stress and understand how best to remedy this. Chamomile tea is an excellent way to begin your relaxation, perhaps followed by a few calming deep breaths and a five-minute meditation. You’ll be surprised how much better you’ll feel.