Chamomile
This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Learn more here.
Chamomile is considered a medicinal plant, that is primarily grown in well-drained, sandy soils with plenty of sunlight, which makes it adaptable to various temperate climates around the world. Chamomile is however native to Europe and Asia, where is has also been used as a medicinal plant through times.
When taken as a tea, chamomile offers a caffein-free drink with multiple benefits, that we will dive into in today’s post.
The chamomile plant contains many components, such as flavonoids, terpenoids and coumarins, which are the reasons for the plants medicinal properties.
Benefits of chamomile
Soothing for anxiety
For centuries, chamomile has been used for its soothing and relaxing properties, and people all over the world are still to this day using chamomile for these exact reasons. A meta-analysis from 2019 showed, that chamomile is a safe and effective way of treating generalized anxiety disorders. Therefore, chamomile is often advised to people struggling with anxiety, as it is a mild, natural way to treat anxiety and can be used safely everyday for most people.
Improves sleep quality
The soothing and relaxing properties of a warm cup of chamomile tea, is a nice way to wind down before bed. The same study mentioned above, also showed that chamomile can safely and effectively be used to treat insomnia and generally improve the quality of sleep. Another study showed, that chamomile has a similar effect as the drug benzodiazepine, which is commonly used to treat both anxiety and sleep disorders. Mixing chamomile with other relaxing herbs, will give you the optimal factors for a good night of sleep. Try for instance mixing with lavender, valerian or check out my simple recipe for a homemade sleepy time tea (link).
Anti-inflammatory properties
Chamomile is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which helps fight inflammation in the body. The flavonoids found in chamomile, is likely the reason for its anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, chamomile tea is a must-have tea, when faced with sickness - especially an irritated throat can be helped by a soothing cup of warm chamomile tea - and even better together with a teaspoon of raw honey!
A hug for the digestive system
A warm cup of chamomile tea, with its soothing properties, can be the hug that your digestive system may need, if your stomach is upset. Chamomile is a carminative, which can help to ease cramps, discomfort and general digestive tension. This is also attributed by the anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile, which may also protect against diarrhea.
How to use chamomile
Tea
Chamomile tea is most commonly used as a tea, which is also what I would recommend using. The tea is mild in flavour, cheap to buy and easy to consume. Simply follow the instructions of the packet of your chamomile tea.
If using loose leaf tea, I recommend starting with 2 teaspoons of dried - preferably organic - chamomile in a cup (250ml) of hot water, letting it steep for at least five minutes, before straining the tea.
The more chamomile you use and the longer you let the tea steep, the more concentrated your tea will be.
I recommend chamomile tea as a tea for winding down in the evening or before going to bed. If used for anxiety, I recommend drinking 1-3 cups throughout the day. Furthermore, I always recommend buying your herbs organic, to avoid herbicides in your tea.
This organic pure chamomile tea from Traditional Medicinals is an excellent option for a high-quality chamomile tea.
Mixing chamomile with other calming herbs like lavender is a great option, when looking for a natural relaxing remedy. This organic chamomile & lavender tea from traditional medicinals is one of my favourites!
Making an herbal infusion is a great way to enjoy all the benefits of chamomile. Infusions are much stronger than teas, and therefore also much more potent in their content of vitamins and minerals.
See my recipe for herbal infusions here.
It is much easier to make herbal infusions with loose leaf tea. I recommend this bag of organic, loose, whole chamomile flowers from Frontier Co-op!
Essential oils
Essential Oils are concentrated plant extracts known for their therapeutic properties and versatility. They are commonly used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance mood. Beyond aromatherapy, essential oils can support wellness in various ways such as added to skincare and household cleaners and fresheners as well as wellness support.
Always dilute essential oils before applying to the skin and consult guidelines for safe use. These powerful extracts are a natural way to enhance your daily routine!
I recommend this chamomile essential oil of premium quality from Majestic Pure!
I personally love this roll-on essential oil for deep sleep made with 100% pure and natural oils. It is small and compact, which makes it perfect for bringing along on travels.
Add to your skin- and haircare
Adding chamomile to your skin- and haircare products is an easy and effective way to enjoy the many benefits of chamomile. Either add them yourself by using chamomile essential oil, as mentioned above, or try a product that already contains chamomile.
This multi-tasking night cream with chamomile and lavender for a restful sleep is an excellent option, when wanting to incorporate chamomile into your self-care routine! The night cream from This Works is made with botanical oils and natural therapeutic fragrance.
This pure chamomile salve from TeliaOils is perfect for soothing and hydrating dry, irritated skin. It can even be used as a gentle and natural rash relief for babies since it is 100% pure and natural.
Side effects
Chamomile is generally safe to consume for most people. People with allergies and other known sensitivities should however always check before adding new remedies to their daily regimen, as there has been reports of chamomile allergies.
However, there has been no reports of life-threatening reactions or toxicity from the chamomile tea, making it a safe and healthy beverage for most people to drink.
Sources
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9611340/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31006899/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15863883/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5074766/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1983818/?page=1
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24463157/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995283/
The information presented on this website is for educational purposes only and is NOT a substitute for licensed medical advice. This information may not be used to diagnose, cure, prevent, or treat any disease. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements or making adjustments to your self-care regimen, especially if you are taking medication.
