Chamomile
(Matricaria chamomillia)
Chamomile is one of the most famous and most frequently used herbs in the world.When should you brew chamomile?
Chamomile is an annual plant with a delicate, elevated and top-branched stem, ending with a cluster of white-lobe flowers.
Chamomile, although native to southern and eastern Europe and Asia Minor, can also be found in North and South America and Australia.Chamomile grows up to 60 cm tall; it has double and triple pinnatifid yellow green leaves, with almost thread-like and slightly twisted sections. The flowers are formed in clusters, and the flower base is conically convex and hollow inside. This is a characteristic which distinguishes chamomile from, for example, Roman chamomile mayweed or corn mayweed, which have a full flower base but have no positive effects on our health.
A precious infusion is prepared from dried chamomile flower heads.
In recent years, high demand for chamomile has brought its cultivation into large, multi-hectare plantations. Today, several times more chamomile is harvested from cultivation than from the wild, although quite a large quantity is harvested from natural locations. The raw material are the whole chamomile flower heads, harvested during the initial blooming phase. The raw material should be harvested in natural locations or on plantations and then dried in the shade at a temperature of up to 35°C.
Chamomile – why should you have it in a home medication kit?
Chamomile is one of the most used herbs in our homes and has a long history of use.Chamomile flower heads contain essential oil, flavonoids, coumarin or mucous compounds. Chamomile is known to help with digestion and contribute to the proper functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Studies have shown that chamomile has a spasmolytic effect. Out of the goodness of its heart, although in case of chamomile it is the leaves, it also helps to relax the body.
Chamomile is a plant with a wide range of properties that have a positive effect on the body.
Chamomile can be used orally and externally. A prepared chamomile infusion should be used for digestive complaints such as digestive disorders, abdominal cramps, a sensation of fullness or bloating and excessive gas accumulation. It is also commonly used as a soothing and relaxing agent for anxiety.
Externally, chamomile compresses or rinses help with irritated skin and mucous membranes, itching skin, eye irritation (e.g. conjunctivitis) or can be used to rinse the mouth and gums. Chamomile has also gained recognition in dermatology because it demonstrates anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and anti-allergic effects. When applied externally, it also aids wound healing and demonstrates an antimicrobial function.
Chamomile was already known in the times of Pliny (75-23 B.C.), and it was recommended by Hippocrates and Pedanius Dioscorides!