Chamomile is an herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to Europe, Asia and North Africa and is now common throughout the world. Of the large number of chamomile species, humans grow and use only two types: Roman and German chamomile. These two types of chamomile differ in size, types of flowers and leaves, as well as the types and amounts of compounds that can be extracted from the plant. The ancient Egyptians discovered the healing potential of chamomile. Since then, this plant has been used for medicinal purposes. In addition, because of its beautiful aroma, chamomile is widely used in the perfume and aromatherapy industries.
Chamomile flowers are loaded with terpenoid group of antioxidants that includes acetylene and chamazulene derivatives.
Chamomile grows in the form of small shrub that usually reaches 8 to 12 inches in height. German chamomile grows to the height of 3 feet.
Chamomile flowers also contains several phenolic compounds like flavonoids such as quercetin, apigenin, patuletin and glucosides.
Chamomile has green, feathery leaves that are alternately arranged on the stem.
It has antioxidants that are related with better immune function, lowers pain and swelling, lower rate of mood disorders and healthier hair, skin, eyes, teeth and nails.
Flower consists of large number of individual flowers called florets. Outer part of the flower consists of 18 white ray florets. Yellow disk, located in the center of the flower, consists of miniature florets that have tubular shape.
Inhaling vapors of chamomile aids anxiety and general depression so due to this reason, chamomile oil is used as a popular ingredient in aromatherapy products, candles and bath soaking treatments.
Chamomile blooms from June to July. Flies are main pollinator of chamomile flowers.
Chamomile in extract form is used as a mild sedative for calming nerves and lowers anxiety.
Name “chamomile” originates from Greek words “chamos”, which means “ground” and “milos” which means “apple”.
Chamomile is a digestive relaxant that is used for treating gastrointestinal problems such as acid reflux symptoms, gas, diarrhea, indigestion, motion sickness, anorexia, vomiting and nausea.
Chamomile is named that way because it grows close to the ground and smells like apple.
The extract of Chamomile shorten course of diarrhea as well as colic in children and also provides relief from the symptoms related with conditions such as anxiety and pain.
Chamomile was used for the process of mummification in the ancient Egypt.
Chamomile also contains natural relaxing effects. It lowers the symptoms of chronic conditions such as IBS, leaky gut and other gut related problems.
Chemical compounds and oils that are used in medical and cosmetic industry are extracted from the flower.
Several studies have been conducted to know anti-cancer activities of Chamomile and have shown positive effects by stopping growth of tumor and acts as a treatment for cancer.
Even though beneficial effects of chamomile are not scientifically proven, chamomile is used in treatment of more than 100 different disorders.
Tea prepared from Chamomile is a great choice to treat cold, sinus infection and flu.
Chamomile can be used in the form of tea, tincture, lotion, capsules or various drops.
The studies show that inhaling steam with Chamomile extract is effective in treating cold symptoms.
Chamomile possesses anti-inflammatory properties, can be used for disinfection and to relieve the pain. It is mainly used for the treatment of urinary and ocular infections, skin rash, toothache, respiratory pain, premenstrual pain, migraine, insomnia, anxiety…
Gargle Chamomile tea or extract to counteract inflammation of mucous membranes and within throat and mouth.
Chamomile can induce side effects when it is consumed in combination with other medications. Also, chamomile may induce premature birth because it stimulates contraction of the uterus.
Chamomile provides healthy and smooth skin by providing relief from irritations due to the presence of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
People that are allergic to ragweed will probably exhibit allergy to the chamomile. Allergy can be triggered after application of cream containing chamomile or after consumption of tea.
Chamomile is related with providing protection to cardiovascular health. Due to its high level of flavonoids, Chamomile is associated with lowering the chances of death by coronary heart diseases in elderly men.
Homemade chamomile tea can be used for lighting of the blond hair.
A chamomile bath could be relaxing and offer relief for dry, inflamed skin or even sun burn. Include 10 drops of chamomile oil, or even numerous cups of chamomile tea, to your cool bath as well as absorb for 30 minutes or even longer.
Besides its decorative morphology, chamomile can be very useful in the garden. It facilitates growth of the surrounding plants and even heals nearby sick plants.
Chamomile creams which you can buy in health-food shops may possibly alleviate sun burn, in addition to skin breakouts just like eczema.
Lifespan of chamomile depends on the species. Roman chamomile is annual plant which lives only one year. German chamomile is perennial plant that lives more than two years.
Chamomile is even utilized just as one component in shampoos. (It brings out blond highlights, in addition to serving as a cleanser.)
