Chamomile Tea
Made from the petals. Tea is yellow in color.
Chamomile Flower Tea
Recipe
4 tablespoons fresh flowers to 1 cup of water. Or 1 dried teaspoonful. Boil more than a cup of water (some will evaporate). Add fresh or dried flowers to a tea cup, mug or another thermal cup. Pour 1 cup of just boiled water over flowers. Steep 5 minutes and strain out flowers. Add honey to taste.
Most often made with German chamomile (Matricaria recutita).
Can be served hot or chilled.
Matricaria recutita-German chamomile
Properties: anodyne, antibacterial, anticoagulant, antiemetic, antifungal, antihistamine, strong anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antineoplastic, antioxidant, antiphlogistic, antipruritic, antispasmodic, anxiolytic, apigenin, aromatic, carminative, chemoprotective, diaphoretic, digestive aid, emmenagogue, febrifuge, nervine, sedative, sleep aid, soporific, and vulnerary.
Contains the phytonutrient apigenin-a flavonoid with anti-cancer properties. Apigenin calms and relaxes the body and the mind-promoting sleep. Apigenin is also antiphlogistic (reduces fever and inflammation), antidepressant, and antispasmodic.
Used for allergies, anorexia, anxiety, arthritis, bloating, bronchitis, burns, cancer, colds, colic, congestion, constipation, coughs, cramps, dental rinse, mild depression, dyspepsia, fever, flatulence, gingivitis, gout, heart health, IBS, inflammation, influenza, insomnia, liver and gallbladder problems, pain, PMS, sore throats, teething, toothache, vomiting, women’s health, and wounds.
Used topically for hemorrhoids, eczema, and itchy skin.
Contraindicated in-severe depression, hay fever, and long-term use which increases risk of allergic reactions.
Studies
Chamomile contains apigenin. Studies on apigenin show it inhibits the growth of tumors in several types of cancer including prostate. It caused the death of cancer cells but not normal cells. Studies show it eases anxiety and contributes to a restful sleep. It kills the bacteria (H. pylori) responsible for many cases of stomach ulcers.
Precaution-common side effects-may cause severe allergic reactions, contact dermatitis, and vomiting. Do not take if you take blood thinners. May weaken oral contraceptives. Do not take if you have a history of cancer of the female organs-uterus, ovaries, or breasts. Do not take if you have endometriosis, or uterine fibroids. Do not take if you have a ragweed allergy. Avoid contact with eyes. Stop taking it at least 2 weeks before surgery and do not start again until at least 2 weeks after as per your medical doctor’s advice. Do not use it during pregnancy (emmenagogue), or breastfeeding. May be safe for children.
Emmenagogues are known to induce miscarriages.
Important Information. I am a clinical nutritionist and holistic health practitioner. I am not a medical doctor. This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for proper medical treatments or care. Always consult with your medical doctor before making any changes to your diet, lifestyle, or fitness programs.
