Chamomile: A flower with many benefits

Restorative sleep, better digestion, lustrous hair, soft and radiant skin... These are just a few of the benefits of chamomile. How can this simple flower, a close cousin of the daisy, have all of these qualities? Let's take a look at this wonder of nature. There are several species of chamomile, including Roman chamomile, German chamomile and feverfew. Here’s the good news: they all have an abundance of health benefits.

Gentle relaxation

A post-dinner chamomile infusion is a classic, and for good reason: this hot drink melts your worries away. Its unique properties don't just dissipate stress, nervousness and anxiety. One thing's for certain: after savouring a cup, your quality of sleep will only improve.

Homemade Herbal Tea

Prepare every night for at least two weeks to reap its full benefits.

Ingredients

1 teaspoon (10 g) of chamomile flowers
1 cup (250 ml) of water

Preparation

Bring water to boil, remove from heat and add chamomile flowers.
Let steep for 10 minutes, remove flowers and drink.

Good for the belly

The anti-insomnia virtues of chamomile are well-known, but did you know that it also helps soothe digestive problems, helps cleanse the liver and calms menstrual cramps? Chamomile can accomplish all of this thanks to its cocktail of compounds that serve as antioxidants, tonics, pain relievers, digestive stimulants and antispasmodics. In other words, chamomile is an effective solution to many types of stomach troubles.

Blossoming beauty

Chamomile does us good on the outside as well as the inside, thanks in part to azulene, which is found in its flowers. This compound soothes and protects as soon as it is applied on dry skin, bringing immediately relief. You can also use chamomile water (obtained by distilling the flowers) in the morning as a tonic lotion, or in the evening to completely remove makeup. Chamomile creams, for their part, calm inflammation related to eczema, burns, sunburns and irritation caused by hair removal. Shampoos and other hair care products containing chamomile are also a good choice for people with light hair as they bright out golden highlights. And why not try a chamomile-scented soap? Enveloping your body in its sweet fragrance is pure pleasure!

References:

Consoglobe. «Les bienfaits de la camomille» Web.27 Mars 2016. Jardiner malin. «Camomille : culture, récolte et vertus». Améliore ta santé «5 boissons nocturnes pour détoxifier le foie et perdre du poids». Beautyshop. «La camomille dans tous ses états» Web.09 Déc 2015.