Small daisies growing in wild bushes, chamomile or chamomile, it has an exquisite and unique scent, apple aroma (hence the name). It belongs to the ambrosia, marigold, daisy and chrysanthemum family.
Since ancient Egyptian times it has been used to perfume wines, immersion baths and cosmetic treatments, as well as as an ingredient for embalming.
It was also used for medicinal purposes, to treat digestive ailments and disorders. Science investigated its active ingredients and chamomile became part of the pharmacological and cosmetic industry.
One of the most widespread effects is its ability to calm stress and anxiety and fight insomnia. Chamomile tea can be made from dried flowers, but its use has become so widespread that brands already offer sachets ready to soak in water. And if you prefer flowers and don’t have a plant nearby, herbalists have the solution.
Properties of chamomile
A study published by Encyclopedia of the National Library of Medicine It says dried chamomile flowers They contain many terpenoids and flavonoids that are effective in fighting hay fever. And they also help in case of inflammation, muscle spasms, menstrual disorders, insomnia, ulcers, wounds, gastrointestinal disorders, rheumatic pain and hemorrhoids.
The study adds that, in the form of an infusion, more than one million cups are consumed per day and “highlights recent findings on its development as a therapeutic agent that promotes human health”.
The Mayo Clinic of the United States includes chamomile in the list of herbs suitable for combating stress, anxiety and insomnia.
He says its use is safe and can be effective in reducing anxiety symptoms, but warns that it is a blood thinner and some people may experience allergies, nausea or dizzinesstherefore we must be attentive to its effects.
Fatigue He has many ways of expressing himself. One is the state of nervousness or anxiety, but you can also have headaches, feel muscle tension, gastrointestinal problems, insomnia and other ailments.
In these cases, chamomile provides a mild sedative and relaxing effect, particularly suitable for the elderly. A more intense infusion (with a greater number of flowers) acts as a sedative with a moderate effect.
He Better with the Health site He adds that chamomile is anti-inflammatory and, in the form of an infusion, calms the symptoms of ulcers, neuralgia and rheumatic pain.
The essential oil of the German chamomile variety is applied as an ointment for burns, wounds, eczema and skin allergies. Chamomile capsules can be helpful in relieving menstrual cramps. And a chamomile-based mouthwash can improve gum inflammation.
What happens if I take chamomile after every meal?
There are those who recommend chamomile infusion as digestive and they are right, it is effective. But if we analyze what the studies suggest, it would be advisable to drink chamomile in the evening, as it induces sleep.
After noon, if we want to continue with daily activity, it could work as rmuscle relaxant and it is not convenient if we drive a car or use saws or dangerous machinery. Drowsiness can also reduce our intellectual capacity.
Chamomile tea: how to prepare it
- Add a teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers to each cup of water.
- Heat and, when it has reached the boil, remove from the heat.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes, filter and serve.
- Sweeten to taste.
- We recommend one cup a day, preferably at night.
Source: Clarin
Mary Ortiz is a seasoned journalist with a passion for world events. As a writer for News Rebeat, she brings a fresh perspective to the latest global happenings and provides in-depth coverage that offers a deeper understanding of the world around us.