Chamomile is regarded as one of the finest and safest of all medicinal herbs. I use both German (wild) and Roman chamomile in my clinic. Chamomile can be used as an infusion, tincture, essential oil and aromatic water. German chamomile is stronger and more bitter. The essential oil is a vibrant blue from the chemical azulene. Roman is more soothing on the lungs and gas more pleasant aroma.
I use chamomile mainly for:
– Nervous tension
– Digestive disorders
– inflammatory skin conditions
For nervous tension I often combine it with other relaxing herbs such as Passion flower, lemon balm and hops. An evening nightcap of an infusion of chamomile and rose hips is very calming and gently soothing. It’s a wonderful herb for children, especially for over excitability, colic and digestive disharmony.
For digestive issues such as gastric ulcers and dyspepsia I often combine it with licorice and peppermint. It’s bitter principles stimulate gastric juices, and works well in formulas for IBS and colic. I use German chamomile for resolving digestive complaints.
For the skin I use it in herbal baths, aromatic waters and in ointments and creams. It’s provides gentle relief for eczema, skin rashes and any inflammation in the skin. I have used it with great results as a compress for neuralgia.
Chamomile is a gentle plant, yet is powerfully effective. Harvest or purchase some chamomile tea today and start feeling it’s wonderful benefits that balance and soothe the body, mind and soul.
