Properties of chamomile , as a natural remedy or as a cosmetic for the skin, benefits and contraindications.In this article you will find answers to curiosities such as: does chamomile have exciting or calming properties? Is its use free from contraindications? What are its cosmetic properties? Here is all the information.
Chamomile plant
Chamomile is a very common aromatic plant that grows spontaneously and can be picked in uncultivated country meadows. It is precisely thanks to its beneficial and cosmetic properties that chamomile has become so popular: it is often used to soothe various problems of both a physical and emotional nature, such as, for example, against anxiety and insomnia.
Given its effectiveness, we can also consider growing chamomile in our home garden; in this regard, we refer you to reading our dedicated article: How to grow chamomile .
Healing properties of chamomile
- Chamomile is an excellent relaxant
The calming effect is given by bisabolol, which is a component of the essential oil; in the extract used for infusions, however, it is the flavonoids and phenolic acids present in the flower that give these properties.
- Chamomile has digestive and antispasmodic properties
It regulates the action of the intestine and has a eupeptic effect, that is, it facilitates digestion by stimulating the production of gastric juices. It is an intestinal tonic, medicinal; it stimulates the expulsion of excess gas and also calms nausea. Thanks also to its calming property, it is able to relax the intestinal muscles and becomes ideal in cases of diarrhea. For this reason, it is also recommended for stomach ache, belly ache, gastroesophageal reflux
- Chamomile has anxiolytic properties
It can calm anxiety and induce sleep; just one infusion can help a lot both people with generalized anxiety and for single moments of tension, linked to a particular event. Unlike traditional drugs of which it has the same effect, chamomile is a natural remedy.
- Chamomile is compatible with weight loss diets
Chamomile is also ideal for those who are on a diet, as it has very few calories, no fat and is rich in vitamins and minerals such as calcium, sodium, zinc, copper, fluoride and potassium, as well as being a diuretic and purifying from toxins.
Chamomile Side Effects
It is important to pay attention to the duration of the infusion, that is, the time we leave the chamomile to soak in hot water. For a correct infusion, a few minutes are enough (3 to 5 minutes). If the infusion time is extended, the drink becomes stronger and could have opposite effects, such as excitement and disorders such as irritability of the digestive system and diarrhea. So yes, in some cases chamomile can have exciting properties but only when its use is linked to very long infusion times.
If you collect the plant yourself, always pay attention to the petals: the common chamomile, immediately after flowering, has white petals facing downwards and not upwards!
Contraindications of Chamomile
In addition to the side effects listed in the previous paragraph, chamomile does not have any particular contraindications . The only contraindications that may occur are related to possible allergic reactions caused by the presence of sesquiterpene lactones in the plant, these substances, in some subjects, can trigger allergic attacks.
Uses of Chamomile
Chamomile can be taken and used in different ways: internally with herbal teas and infusions and externally with ointments, oils, shampoos, compresses… topical use will allow you to make the most of the cosmetic properties of chamomile. Not everyone knows that chamomile can also be useful in gardening, to prepare natural remedies to treat plants.
How to prepare chamomile
To prepare a herbal tea, you need dried chamomile flowers and 150 ml of water: once the water has been brought to the boil, pour the still boiling water over the dried flowers and leave to infuse for a few minutes, then filter and drink when the liquid has cooled.
You can also use filters or powdered chamomile, which will speed up the dissolving process. A variation of herbal tea can be made using 60 g of chamomile flowers, 20 g of gentian roots and 120 g of valerian roots, to be drunk half in the morning and half in the evening. This infusion based on chamomile, gentian and valerian is an excellent natural remedy in case of nervous tension, cramps, menstrual pain, anxiety and poor digestion.
Chamomile as a natural remedy
For topical use (external use), chamomile can be used for its cosmetic and soothing properties. You can make compresses with a sterile gauze soaked in chamomile; these compresses can be regenerating for tired eyes, red eyes or in the presence of conjunctivitis: apply the sterile gauze on the eyelid and let the chamomile act for a few hours.
In case of abrasions or minor wounds, you can use a chamomile compress as a natural remedy to facilitate healing.
In case of sore throat or throat plaques, you can take advantage of gargles made with an infusion of chamomile and lemon juice. This natural remedy helps to turn off the inflammation affecting the mouth.
Cosmetic properties of chamomile
Thanks to its natural anti-inflammatory properties and protective action, chamomile is an excellent ally for skin care . For skin care, you can use chamomile compresses or, more effectively, its essential oil.
Chamomile extract is a very common ingredient in cosmetics. It has many beneficial properties : it is able to stimulate the activity of fibroblasts, promoting the formation of collagen, elastic fibers and hyaluronic acid. In this way, chamomile has regenerating properties, helping to repair the epidermis.
Chamomile-based preparations are mainly used in the preparation of cosmetic products for those with sensitive, delicate, dehydrated skin or in the presence of disorders such as atopic dermatitis or rosacea.
To moisturize the skin and to have an anti-inflammatory action on sensitive, dry and red skin, you can perform a massage using sweet almond oil (15 ml) and chamomile essential oil (maximum 2 ml).
