Who would expect all the beneficial properties that accompany the «humble» chamomile! Its small flowers, the sweet taste and delicate smell owns a special place among all the other herbs!
Well known and esteemed since ancient times for its many medicinal properties and the number of beneficial ingredients, chamomile noble, (Chamaemelum Nobile as its scientific name), is considered a friend of the babies and the elderly and those suffering from emotionalism, sadness, anxiety, stress, insomnia.
A thousand and one uses!
Used for indigestion, skin irritations, insect bites, tantrums and colic pains or teething babies and children.
Fights: rash, itching, skin.
Is diaphoretic, antipyretic, bactericidal, painkiller, sedative and combats headaches, dizziness, neuralgia. (Due salicylates containing aspirin).
The antiseptic properties protect against digestive problems, and infections of the mucosa.
According to researchers of London Imperial College , the chamomile consumption causes the appearance of substances (eg glycine) that calm muscle spasms and fight inflammation.
Is recommended against: colds, acne, colitis, stomach ulcers. Emollient properties exploit the pharmaceutical industry and cosmetics for sensitive skin and dry skin.
Fresh is better!
Fresh chamomile is more beneficial, especially if you pick yourself from the countryside, avoiding what grows on the edges of roads, which are full of harmful substances such as exhausts. You will find that even a flower, fresh or dried at home, has a stronger aroma than sachet trade.
Drying at home …
Cut flowers from their shoots, lay thinly on paper towels and let a shaded, ventilated drying, to maintain the color and chemical composition (turn them every 2-3 days). Afterwards store them in jars in the cupboard. Maintain full properties for a year.
Contraindications
Although considered a safe herb, you should avoid pregnant (it is emmenagogue), those with asthma and those who are allergic to daisies or chrysanthemums. In large quantities can cause vomiting. It is advised to avoid those who are taking anticoagulants, barbiturates, anticonvulsants, hypnotics, antidepressants, antihistamines, oral contraceptives, sedatives (such as Valium) or other sedative herbs. Incompatible with alcohol.
Ideas with chamomile!
* For intestinal colic and flatulence: infusion of chamomile and fennel seeds.
* For silky hair rinse after shampoo.
* Perfect blend for stress, fatigue, insomnia, bad mood with: chamomile, hops, linden, marjoram, balm.