
I invite you to journey with me into the world of one of nature's most beloved and versatile herbs, chamomile. Known for its delicate, daisy-like appearance and its sweet, apple-like fragrance, chamomile has been treasured for thousands of years across various cultures for its remarkable health-benefitting properties. Chamomile, scientifically known as German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) or Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) holds a prominent place in the world of natural remedies. This humble herb, often enjoyed as a soothing tea, is far more than a mere bedtime beverage –it is a powerhouse of therapeutic benefits that can address a multitude of health concerns from digestive issues to anxiety.
Most notably, chamomile is renowned for its calming and relaxing effects. It provides a variety of benefits, including relaxant (relaxes muscles and reduces tension), nervine (supports the nervous system, calms nerves, and reduces anxiety), anti-spasmodic (relieves muscle spasms and cramps), and carminative properties (aids and relieves gas and bloating).
A warm cup of strong-infused chamomile tea can work wonders when the world's weight seems too heavy.
Chamomile Tea

Boil eight ounces (1 cup of water) and pour into your favorite tea cup with 1/4 cup of chamomile flowers (dried or fresh). Dried will give a more forward strong flavor. When using fresh, remove the entire flower head from the stem, rinse, and pat dry before adding to your brew. Step your tea covered to prevent oils from evaporating for 5-10 minutes. Enjoy.
Moreover, chamomile has been shown to have immune-boosting properties. Regular consumption of chamomile tea can enhance the body's ability to fight off infections. This is partly due to its antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help to ward off common colds and other infectious diseases. (5)
The herb contains compounds such as apigenin, a type of antioxidant that binds to certain receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and sleep. This makes chamomile an excellent natural remedy for insomnia and restless nights. (1)
Beyond its mental health benefits, chamomile also boasts impressive anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties (i.e., think pain relief). Whether it's a mild headache, menstrual cramps, or muscle soreness, chamomile can provide gentle yet effective relief. Its anti-inflammatory effects are primarily attributed to the presence of chamazulene and bisabolol, which help to reduce swelling and redness. (2)
Digestive health is another area where chamomile truly shines. It is often recommended for easing digestive issues such as bloating, gas, indigestion, cramping and even irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Chamomile tea can soothe the stomach lining and relax the muscles of the digestive tract (antispasmodic), making it a wonderful ally for those suffering from any gastrointestinal discomfort. (3)
Chamomile's benefits extend to the skin as well. It is frequently used in topical applications, thanks again to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. Chamomile is found in creams, ointments, and lotions designed to soothe eczema, psoriasis, and minor wounds or burns. It helps to accelerate the healing process, reduce inflammation, and prevent infection, making it a valuable component of any natural skincare regimen. (4) Chamomile can be infused into facial oils, used in steams, or powered and incorporated into facial masks.
In addition to these well-documented benefits, emerging research suggests that chamomile may also play a role in heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease. (6)
For women, chamomile has been traditionally used to alleviate menstrual pain and symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). The herb’s natural properties help relax the uterus and reduce the severity of cramps. Furthermore, chamomile's ability to calm the nervous system can help mitigate mood swings and irritability associated with PMS. (7)

Chamomile aids oral health. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties make it useful for treating gum inflammation and mouth ulcers. Create a mouthwash, or mouth rise with a strong chamomile infusion, to maintain oral hygiene. (8)
Chamomile's versatility, gentle nature, and wide range of benefits make it a staple in the medicine cabinet. Its ability to calm the mind, soothe the body, and heal the skin demonstrates the profound wisdom of nature and its gifts to humanity. So next time you find yourself in need of a little comfort, whether it be for your mind, body, or soul, consider reaching for chamomile. This unassuming herb may just hold the key to a more peaceful, healthy, and harmonious life.
Some chamomile recipes:
Chamomile-Infused Honey: heat one cup of honey on low heat until warm, then add two tablespoons of dried chamomile flowers. Let the mixture steep for 2-3 hours as it cools, then strain the honey into a jar, making sure to remove all flowers. This floral-infused honey is perfect for drizzling over desserts, adding to tea, or to sweeten non-dairy yogurt. (10)
Chamomile-Infused Oil: add one cup of dried chamomile to one cup of your oil of choice (like olive oil). Place the dried chamomile flowers in a clean glass jar. Pour the carrier oil over the flowers until they are completely submerged. Seal the jar and place it in a sunny spot for 2-4 weeks. Shake the jar gently every day. After 2-4 weeks, strain the oil through a strainer or cheesecloth into a clean container. Pour the strained oil into a dark glass bottle (optional), and store it in a cool, dark place. Depending on the carrier oil, can be used for culinary purposes, and or skin care for its anti-inflammatory properties. (13)
Chamomile Blueberry Smoothie: blend one cup of chamomile tea (cooled, and refer to tea instructions above), half a cup of plain coconut yogurt, one cup of fresh or frozen blueberries, ½ of an avocado, and a scoop of collagen powder (for protein). This smoothie is packed with vitamins, minerals, and probiotics, providing a refreshing and nourishing option for breakfast or a mid-day snack. (11)
Chamomile-Infused Quinoa Salad: cook one cup of quinoa in two cups of chamomile tea (see instructions above). Once cooked, let the quinoa cool. In a large bowl, combine the quinoa with one cup of chopped cucumber, one cup of cherry tomatoes, half a cup of diced red onion, and a quarter cup of fresh parsley. For the dressing, whisk together two tablespoons of olive oil, the juice of one lemon, one teaspoon of honey, and a pinch of salt. Toss the salad with the dressing and serve chilled. This salad is high in protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a perfect light meal or side dish. (13)
Chamomile Face Mask: mix one tablespoon of dried chamomile powder with honey and rosewater to form a smooth paste. Apply the mask to your face and leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm water for a soothing and moisturizing effect on the skin. (14)
Chamomile Hair Rinse: create a strong chamomile infusion (see above). Let the tea cool to room temperature. After shampooing and conditioning, pour the chamomile tea over your hair as a final rinse. Do not rinse out for shiny and soft hair, especially beneficial for lightening blonde hair. (15)
Chamomile Bath Soak: mix one cup of Epsom salts, ½ cup of dried chamomile flowers, and 10 drops of chamomile essential oil in a bowl. Store the mixture in a sealed glass container until ready to use. Add half a cup of the mixture to warm bath water and soak for at least 20 minutes to relax and soothe muscles and skin. (16)
Chamomile Sleep Pillow Spray: add one cup of witch hazel to a spray bottle, and add 15-20 drops of chamomile essential oil and 10 drops of lavender essential oil. Shake well before use, and lightly mist your pillow before bedtime to promote restful sleep. (17)
Some noteworthy skincare chamomile products:
Chamomile & calendula tallow: PURE Calendula Chamomile Whipped Tallow
Chamomile face mask: Mermaid Mask by Leahlani
Cleansing gel: Live Botanical Gentle Cleansing Gel
Chamomile body/face oil: Organic Baby Oil - Organic Baby Skin Care | Badger Balm
For places to source dried chamomile check out: Resource Guide | HW Apothicaire
Incorporating chamomile into various aspects of daily life, from culinary delights to skincare and wellness routines, showcases the incredible versatility and benefits of this gentle herb. Its soothing properties can enhance both physical and mental well-being, offering natural solutions for relaxation, nourishment, and overall health. By exploring the variation of ways to use chamomile, we embrace a holistic approach to self-care that honors the tradition of herbal remedies while integrating them seamlessly into modern lifestyles. Whether in a comforting cup of tea, a rejuvenating face mask, or a calming bath soak, chamomile continues to be a timeless ally in our pursuit of wellness and tranquility.
References
1. Srivastava, J. K., Shankar, E., & Gupta, S. (2010). Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with bright future. Molecular Medicine Reports, 3(6), 895-901.
2. McKay, D. L., & Blumberg, J. B. (2006). A review of the bioactivity and potential health benefits of chamomile tea (Matricaria recutita L.). Phytotherapy Research, 20(7), 519-530.
3. Gupta, V., Mittal, P., Bansal, P., Khokra, S. L., & Kaushik, D. (2010). Pharmacological potential of Matricaria recutita–a review. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, 2(1), 12-16.
4. Srivastava, J. K., Gupta, S., & Kulshreshtha, S. (2009). Chamomile and marigold: ancient herbals valued in modern medicine. Annals of Neurosciences, 16(2), 1-8.
5. McKay, D. L., & Blumberg, J. B. (2007). Role of tea in reducing chronic disease. Integrative Medicine, 6(2), 36-41.
6. Amsterdam, J. D., Shults, J., Soeller, I., Mao, J. J., Rockwell, K., & Newberg, A. B. (2009). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of oral Matricaria recutita (chamomile) extract therapy of generalized anxiety disorder. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 29(4), 378-382.
7. Sharifi-Rad, J., Sureda, A., Tenore, G. C., Daglia, M., Sharifi-Rad, M., Valussi, M., ... & Setzer, W. N. (2017). Biological activities of essential oils: From plant chemoecology to traditional healing systems. Molecules, 22(1), 70.
8. Horváth, G., & Ács, K. (2015). Essential oils in the treatment of respiratory tract diseases highlighting their role in bacterial infections and their anti-inflammatory action: A review. Flavour and Fragrance Journal, 30(5), 331-341.
9. Bone, K., & Mills, S. (2013). Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy: Modern Herbal Medicine. Elsevier Health Sciences.
10. Swanson, A. (2020). Herbal Infusions: Healing Teas and Tonics. HarperCollins Publishers.
11. Green, E. (2018). The Herbal Kitchen: Cooking with Fragrance and Flavor. Ten Speed Press.
12. Potter, A. (2019). Natural Refreshments: A Guide to Homemade Herbal Drinks. Running Press.
13. Walker, L. (2021). Floral Flavors: Cooking with Edible Flowers. Quarry Books.
14. Harper, L. (2020). Natural Beauty: Homemade Recipes for Radiant Skin & Hair. Artisan Books.
15. Johnson, M. (2019). Herbal Hair Care: A Guide to Natural Shampoos, Rinses, and Treatments. Green Leaf Press.
16. Martin, S. (2021). Herbal Baths and Beyond: Relaxing and Healing Recipes. Healing Arts Press.
17. Williams, E. (2019). Essential Oils for Sleep: Recipes for a Restful Night. Wellbeing Publishing
***This article is not intended to diagnose, cure, or prevent disease. This article is for educational purposes only***
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