You may have tried chamomile tea to soothe a sore throat or to relax after a long day. But did you know that chamomile is a versatile herb with a wide variety of health benefits?
Learn more about the powerhouse that is chamomile so that you can add it to your shopping list next time you’re looking for aromatherapy items in Poplar Bluff, MO.
What is chamomile?
Chamomile is a plant with flowers that look similar to a daisy and that offers an endless list of healing benefits. It became increasingly popular during the Middle Ages, when it was frequently used to treat conditions such as nausea, fevers, skin disease and inflammations.
Chamomile flowers contain volatile oils, flavonoids and other therapeutic components that aid in the healing process.
What can chamomile help to treat?
Chamomile can be used internally or externally. It is known to be particularly effective for a number of health conditions, including those on the following list:
- Hemorrhoids, burns, skin rashes and wounds: Chamomile can act as a salve to relieve these conditions, resulting in faster healing.
- Digestion issues: When chamomile tea is consumed after meals, it can soothe the stomach and make the digestion process easier. It has also been shown to aid in successful bowel functioning and to alleviate symptoms of flatulence, nausea and heartburn. In some cases, it is used to help treat Crohn’s disease and various diverticular disorders.
- Inflammation: Chamomile can be used as part of a compress to help treat skin problems and inflammations, such as inflammations of mucous tissue.
- Colds and asthma: When used as a vapor, chamomile is an effective herb for relieving the symptoms of colds and asthma.
- Allergies: Chamomile is known to alleviate allergies in a similar fashion as an antihistamine.
- Insomnia: Chamomile produces a mild sedative effect shown to relax muscles, which may aid those who experience insomnia in falling asleep sooner.
- Stress: While medical professionals caution against ceasing taking prescription medications, studies performed in animals indicate that chamomile features substances that affect parts of the brain and nervous system in the same way as anti-anxiety medications.
- Cramps: Chamomile is believed to promote relaxation in the muscles of the uterus, which can reduce the discomfort associated with menstrual cramping.
Before you jump into experimenting with chamomile, if you know that you are strongly allergic to plants such as ragweed, daisies and chrysanthemums, consider performing a spot test on a small area of your skin first. Most people can generally use chamomile with no issues, but it can lead to an allergic reaction in some individuals.
Still curious about how to incorporate chamomile into your regular healthcare routine, or do you have questions about nutritional supplements or other food items? Stop by today to see the experts at The Bee Hive Natural Foods. In addition to selling aromatherapy items in Poplar Bluff, MO, we also offer a comprehensive selection of gluten-free and lactose-free products, organic produce, meats, dairy products and soy products.
You can also always find a wide selection of spices, teas, herbs, oils, skin care and beauty products and nutritional supplements. We look forward to helping you on the path to a healthy, happy new year!