Chamomile: medicinal properties and contraindications

Caught among wildflowers, one unwittingly admires their tenderness and beauty. Azure cornflowers, bluebells, sun dandelions and fragile daisies - they seem quite defenseless, but in fact they are hiding a huge power. Every flower and every blade of grass can restore health. Chamomile, like a graceful ballerina in a tutu, which is able to cope with many diseases, stands out in particular. Its healing abilities are astonishing, and it itself deservedly occupies one of the leading places in the ancient books of the first healers.

Chemical Composition

The usefulness of the amazing plant has been recognized by the scientific community for decades. Numerous studies have confirmed the unique ability of the flower to restore human health. And, first of all, this is due to the composition of useful substances, among which can be noted the presence of:

• Vitamins A, B1, B2, B5, B9;
• zinc;
• copper;
• iron;
• manganese;
• potassium;
• magnesium;
• calcium;
• chlorine;
• sulfur;
• magnesium;
• phosphorus;
• nicotinic, ascorbic, caprylic, salicylic, isovaleric acid;
• quercetin;
• tannins;
• polysaccharides;
• flavonoids;
• glycoside apigenin.

These components are put together so that chamomile can take care of human health and beauty, without harming the body.

How it looks and where it grows

Chamomile is the most popular and easily recognized member of the Compositae family. Its distribution area was Eurasian, American, South African and Australian countries. In the Russian Federation, it grows in Siberia, the Altai, the steppes of Transbaikalia and the central part of the country. The flower can be seen on roadside roadsides, edges of fields, wasteland, meadows and even in populated areas near residential buildings.

The plant has been known since Ancient Rome, where it was associated with apples because of its fragrance, reminiscent of the smell of the famous fruit. The Poles were the first to give it its modern name.

Chamomile has a split leaf shape with small slices that are green in color. The herb blooms in hemisphere-like baskets. The inflorescences can reach 2 cm in diameter. Inside the core there are tubular yellow flowers and on the sides there are white pistillate flowers.

Chamomile has a fruit, which is a four-rib or three-rib seed.

The plant is used in medicine and cosmetology, each time bringing its invaluable benefits to mankind.

Types

Currently, the friendly "chamomile family" includes 25 plants belonging to the Aster genus. The most common are generally considered to be the apothecary chamomile, green chamomile, western chamomile, rock chamomile or golden chamomile. All these and other varieties of flower are united by one common feature - a vacant space in the flowerpod. The plants themselves are slightly different from each other:

1. Apothecary. The most famous and recognizable. It is its inflorescences with yellow flowers in the center and white on the sides that are used for medicinal purposes.
2. Green. It is distinguished by the absence of white lateral "petals" and a strong aroma, for which it received its second name - fragrant. It is also used in medicine.
3. Western. It has only a yellow core and can reach 70 cm in height. This flower can only be found in the northern lands of America.
4. Rocky. Received its name because of its habitat, as it grows on the slopes of mountains. Its stems seem to creep along the ground. This grass is found in the Altai Mountains.
5. Golden-headed. It is distinguished by the absence of lateral florets, and the shape of its flower stalk is cone-shaped. It blooms not only in inflorescences but also in solitary baskets.

The other species are less well known, but are also similar to the popular varieties.

Gathering and storage

In pharmacy kiosks you can easily buy chamomile flowers already in dry form. But you can also do it yourself, especially since experienced herbalists consider this activity not difficult. To collect the raw material correctly, you need to follow some rules:

1. Choose an ecologically clean place, located away from populated areas and businesses.
2. The optimal period of collection is from the middle of the first summer month to the last month of summer.
3. Go for the harvest in the morning, when the dew is gone, on a dry and sunny day.
4. It is better to use scissors or a knife, with which to cut off only the flowers.
5. If you want to gather not only inflorescences but also herbs, you should cut a 30-centimeter stalk, counting the distance from the top, not from the root. It is also recommended to collect the greens on different branches, so that the plant has a chance to recover soon.

The collection steps are simple and easy to follow, as are the conditions for drying the raw material:

1. Arrange the collected inflorescences on a cloth or lattice in a thin layer and cover them with gauze against insects.
2. The drying process is best done in a dark room with good air circulation, because it is not always easy. The sun's rays can destroy all the useful composition of the plant.
3. The ideal drying temperature is between 25 and 35°C, if there are no such conditions, the product is dried at room temperature.
4. The time of the natural process is about 2 weeks.
5. If you use an electric dryer, the temperature should be kept around 40°C, but no more.

If it is necessary to dry the flowers together with the stems, the plant is collected in bundles and hung upside down in the attic.

When the raw material dries, it should be placed in cardboard boxes or cloth bags. In the boxes, the herb can be covered with a sheet of paper, and not closed tightly. In this condition, chamomile will retain all its beneficial properties for 1.5 years.

Therapeutic properties of chamomile

Chamomile, having a whole "arsenal" of micro- and macro-elements, has a beneficial effect on human health. The plant has the following properties:

• antibacterial;
• anti-inflammatory;
• sedative;
• choleretic;
• anticonvulsant;
• antihistamine;
• antispasmodic;
• styptic;
• reducing flatulence;
• astringent.

Due to the spectrum of its effect on the body, the herb is considered useful for women, men and children. However, its benefits for everyone will be different.

For women

In the days of ancient Rome, the plant was used to treat mainly gynecological ailments, and therefore, in translation from the Latin language, chamomile translates as "uterine flower". For this reason, it is simply designed to strengthen and maintain a woman's health. The herb will help with the following female ailments:

• dysmenorrhea;
• algodysmenorrhea;
• vulvitis;
• vaginitis;
• endocervicitis;
• pyelonephritis;
• cystitis;
• thrush;
• calpitis;
• uterine bleeding;
• heavy menstruation;
• insomnia;
• edema.

With these diagnoses, the herb helps to relieve inflammation and alleviate pain. Decoctions are consumed internally, since they can be used in the body. Their external application, or more precisely, douches have absolutely no positive effect, but they can have a negative effect. The fact is that when you use douches, pathogenic bacteria can penetrate the uterus and vagina, which will lead to the spread of the virus and only worsen the condition.

Outwardly, a woman can use chamomile to create cosmetic masks, balms, rinses, as well as during lactation for nipple damage.

It is these properties of the flower that made it so useful for the health of the beautiful half of humanity.

For Men

Although initially chamomile was only used to treat women's illnesses, it was later used for men as well. The influence of the magic flower on the stronger sex is as follows:

• reduction of pain syndrome in prostatitis;
• normalization of the work of the genitourinary system;
• Preventing the occurrence of prostate cancer;
• reduction of cramps during physical exertion;
• prevention of infertility;
• restoration of spermatogenesis;
• improvement of potency;
• Increase testosterone levels.

For men decoctions of the herb are prescribed for gout, neurosis, rheumatism, infertility, respiratory diseases, erectile dysfunction.

Thus, the "female" flower can also help the stronger half of mankind to overcome their ailments.

Pregnancy

The fragile chamomile is not as harmless as it seems. Its effect on pregnancy is quite aggressive, and therefore any remedies containing the herb are not recommended in the period of waiting for the baby. This is due to its ability to cause uterine contractions, leading to premature labor or miscarriage. In some cases, however, a specialist may still prescribe a decoction of the plant to help pregnant women eliminate headaches, stomach cramps, flatulence, toxicosis. In these situations, the doctor prescribes treatment with chamomile, based on the condition of the patient, and calculates the dose of the drug that does not cause negative consequences.

As for the external use of plants during pregnancy, there are no prohibitions. External use of the flower will be very useful for the future mother. Decoctions can be used to gargle the throat to relieve inflammation and eliminate pain. It is also recommended to rinse the hair, restoring its shine and beauty, to take baths with herbal decoction to calm the nervous system and relieve fatigue.

An expectant mother should remember that she can safely use chamomile herbal infusions and decoctions externally, but before taking them internally, it is worth to consult with a doctor to avoid the risks of complications of pregnancy and fetal loss.

When breastfeeding

During breastfeeding, women are extremely cautious not only about food, but also about medicines and plants. However, with chamomile there is no need to fear for the health of the baby and the mother, because the herb is not dangerous during lactation and can help to cope with such disorders and diagnoses:

• problems with sleep and nervous tension;
• Acute respiratory viral infections;
• laryngitis;
• tonsillitis;
• pharyngitis;
• Breast wounds caused by nursing;
• diarrhea;
• flatulence;
• colic;
• thrush;
• diseases of the urogenital system;
• menstrual disorders;
• toothache.

It should be noted that during breastfeeding it is allowed to consume no more than 2 cups of chamomile tea or decoction a day, because their excess may not increase the amount of milk, but reduce and cause allergic reactions in the baby. To avoid negative consequences, it is necessary to consult an expert and not to exceed the daily dose, and to resort to self-medication in such an important period of infant development is not worth it.

For children

It is not always possible to give a small child what is allowed to an adult. This rule does not apply to chamomile. Herbal drinks are allowed for children from 6 months of age. They will help to cope:

• with colic;
• sleep disorders;
• malfunctions of the digestive tract;
• colds;
• inflammation of the upper respiratory tract;
• the effects of sunburn;
• diaper rash;
• sweating;
• teething pains;
• decreased immunity.

The dose of the first reception should not exceed 15 ml, then you can increase to 30 ml. After a year old child is recommended to take broths in an amount of 100 ml. Bathe in a decoction of chamomile baby can be from birth and do not worry about his health.

Before taking the herb, you should keep in mind that it is not recommended in the presence of diarrhea, kidney problems, bladder disease and mental illness. In addition, it is necessary to monitor the reaction of the baby, as the product can cause allergies.

In other cases, the plant will be useful for the child's body, but only after the recommendations of a specialist.

With weight loss

In the process of weight loss, chamomile has proved to be an excellent auxiliary means, the influence of which on this process lies in the following effects:

• regulation of digestive processes;
• The normalization of the metabolism;
• Excretion of toxins, excess fluid and salts;
• Reducing appetite by regulating sugar levels;
• removal of nervousness;
• skin rejuvenation;
• prevention of stretch marks.

In this regard, nutritionists recognize the usefulness of the flower for weight loss, but warn that overdosing threatens dehydration, reduced immunity and disorders of intestinal microflora. And so the advice is one: chamomile helps in conjunction with physical activity and in compliance with the recommended average daily rate.

Chamomile in folk medicine

Chamomile belongs to those plants, the benefits of which are recognized by official medicine. But the "pioneers" in its use were folk healers. Their knowledge has reached the modern herbalists, treating today their patients with the amazing flower. In non-conventional medicine, the plant is commonly prescribed for such diagnoses:

• lesions of the epithelium;
• disorders of the biliary tract;
• diseases of the upper respiratory tract;
• inflammatory processes of the gastrointestinal tract;
• diseases of the genitourinary system;
• inflammation of various nature and localization;
• bronchial asthma;
• diabetes mellitus;
• eczema;
• gastritis;
• headaches and toothaches;
• depression;
• nervous system malfunctions;
• insomnia;
• sprains;
• gynecological diseases;
• Infertility in men;
• decreased potency.

For the treatment of these ailments there are a large number of recipes that ancient healers knew, but effective even today.

With diabetes mellitus

Ingredients:

• chamomile flowers - 2 tsp;
• cinnamon stick - 1 pc;
• boiling water - 200 ml.

Pour boiling water over components and insist for half an hour, then strain. Take one cup of tea a day on an empty stomach. The two ingredients of this drink will help to regulate sugar levels and increase the response to insulin.

For pancreatitis.

Ingredients:

• Chamomile flowers - 1 tsp;
• fennel - 1 tsp;
• Immortelle flowers - 1 tsp;
• Boiling water - 500 ml.

Combine the components, boil in a water bath for half an hour, then allow the drink to cool and filter it. Use a decoction of ¼ cup each time after a meal. The remedy has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

With gastritis

This recipe is aimed at creating a protective film on the mucosa of the stomach, inflamed during gastritis.

Ingredients:

• Chamomile flowers - 1 tsp;
• Water - 200 ml.

Add water to chamomile and put on the stove. After boiling, the remedy to simmer on low heat for 7-10 minutes. Allow to cool and filter. Divide the resulting glass of drink into 3 parts and drink them within a day.

For the bowel

Ingredients:

• Chamomile flowers - 120 g;
• St. John's wort - 120 g;
• birch buds - 120 g;
• Immortelle herb - 120 g;
• Boiling water - 2 cups;
• Honey - ½ tsp.

All dry herbs mixed and take 1 tsp. spoon of the resulting collection, which pour boiling water. The remedy to put in the heat for 2 hours, then strain with gauze. Before using, add honey. Such a preparation to use in warm form at night. It eliminates pain, bloating and normalizes bowel function.

When constipation

To defeat constipation and remove pathogenic bacteria will help an enema from chamomile, which will quickly and effectively eliminate an unpleasant ailment, without causing negative effects. Such a method is also suitable for allergenic patients. But often you can not use the method, since together with the "unnecessary" you can get rid of useful bacteria.

Ingredients:

• Chamomile flowers - 3-4 tbsp.
• boiling water;
• water.

Pour boiling water over dry inflorescences and incubate for half an hour. After that, filter the remedy and add 500 ml of warm water. The required temperature for an enema should be from 35 to 38°C. Carry out the procedure before going to bed, keeping the enema for about 10 minutes.

With diarrhea

Infusion of chamomile for diarrhea will help to eliminate pathogens and maintain water balance.

Ingredients:

• chamomile - 2 tbsp;
• Boiling water - 800 ml.

Put the herb in a thermos and add boiling water. Allow to infuse for 60 minutes. Take the drug every 2 hours during the day. As a rule, there is improvement after the first dose. If there is no improvement on the second day, it is necessary to consult a specialist.

When gout

To reduce pain syndrome and joint sensitivity, it is recommended to use a compress of chamomile with elderberry.

Ingredients:

• chamomile - 1 tbsp;
• Elderberry - 1 tbsp.
• Boiling water - 200 ml.

Combine the ingredients and boil for 5 minutes. Then let the broth infuse for 30 minutes, and then strain it through a layer of gauze. After that, take a bandage and soak it in the decoction, apply it to the sore spot and wrap it in food film. It is best to perform the procedure before going to bed. The duration of such treatment should not exceed 14 days.

In colitis

To improve the condition with colitis will help the following folk remedy based on chamomile and honey.

Ingredients:

• Chamomile flowers - 3 tbsp;
• honey - 80 grams;
• Boiling water - 800 ml.

Combine the herb with boiling water and cover with a warm cloth. Let the preparation infuse for 120 minutes. After the time, strain the infusion and add honey to it. Use the drug no more than 4 times a day in 250 ml. The course duration is 45 days. Resume treatment after a 14-day break.

For the liver

Those who want to cleanse the liver, it is worth using the recipe for herbal decoction with chamomile and other herbs.

Ingredients:

• Chamomile flowers - 2 tbsp;
• St. John's wort - 1 tbsp;
• crushed birch leaf - 1 tbsp;
• water - 500 ml.

Combine the components and bring to a boil. Then insist 10 minutes and strain. Decoction to drink 1 tbsp. spoon three times a day before a meal.

Hemorrhoids

Chamomile in such a delicate problem as hemorrhoids, has wound-healing, antipruritic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effect. To combat the disease is recommended to use this recipe:

Ingredients:

• Chamomile flowers - 1 tbsp;
• Boiling water - 200 ml.

Combine the components and insist 60 minutes, covering the vessel with a lid, then strain. Such a remedy to drink 1 cup 20 minutes before a meal, or do 20-minute lotions twice a day.

When cholecystitis.

To cope with cholecystitis and its symptoms will help herbal collection.

Ingredients:

• Chamomile flowers - 2 tbsp. spoon;
• Kidney tea - 2 tablespoons;
• peppermint - 2 tablespoons;
• hops - 2 tablespoons;
• boiling water - 1 liter.

Mix all the ingredients and take 3 tablespoons of the resulting mixture. Then pour the raw material with boiling water and put on a low heat, where to simmer for 25 minutes. After that, extinguish the flame and allow to infuse for a quarter of an hour. Drink the decoction 1 time a day, 1 cup before the first meal.

With cystitis

The oldest medicine to combat cystitis is considered to be just chamomile. Baths with it have an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory effect. Internal administration will help relieve pain, relax the muscles of the bladder and have diuretic and choleretic effects. The recipe for the popular remedy is simple:

Ingredients:

• Chamomile flowers - 30 g;
• Peppermint - 20 g;
• Poplar buds - 20 g;
• Boiling water - 200 ml.

Dry ingredients mixed and take 1 tbsp. mixture, then combine it with boiling water and allow to infuse for 4 hours. The remedy to use in its entirety during the day.

For a cough

The cough is perfectly treatable with chamomile. The plant helps to arrest coughing attacks, relieve inflammation of the mucous membranes, improve the discharge of sputum and eliminate edema. There are many recipes for this disease. Below is the most common.

Ingredients:

• Chamomile flowers - 1 tbsp;
• Mother-oil flowers - 1 tbsp. spoon;
• Boiling water - 500 ml.

Pour boiling water over the herbs and insist for 30-40 minutes. Keep the lid on the pot closed. Then filter it. The remedy should be taken three times a day, but adults should use 70 ml, and children will suffice 1 tbsp. spoon.

With a cold

Colds can be defeated with the same chamomile, which has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antispasmodic effects. In addition, the herb boosts the immune system and helps to cope more quickly with the disease. The recipe for colds is simple.

Ingredients:

• Chamomile flowers - 2 tbsp;
• Honey - 1 tsp;
• lemon - 1 slice;
• Boiling water - 400 ml.

Pour chamomile in boiling water and soak for 30 minutes. Strain, add honey and lemon. Take tea is recommended three times a day.

With sore throat

Angina is a serious illness. For its treatment, you can also use a unique plant that helps to destroy pathogenic bacteria, eliminate pain, relieve swelling and irritation. The most effective method of treatment is rinsing. When preparing the composition for the procedure you will need:

• chamomile - 1 tbsp;
• Boiling water - 200 ml.

Combine the components and insist a quarter of an hour, then strain. Infusion rinse your throat every 3 hours. It is necessary to remember that after the procedure for half an hour it is not recommended to eat and drink.

With prostatitis

The useful properties of chamomile help men in the fight against prostatitis. They relieve pain, inflammation, destroy bacteria, cleanse the body of harmful substances and saturate it with vitamins. To prepare a healing potion, you need to stock up on the following ingredients:

• chamomile - 25 g;
• elderberry - 25 g;
• Boiling water - 0.9 l.

Combine the components and boil for 10 minutes. Then cool and strain. Take the drug 3 times a day by 150 ml after a meal.

With thrush

Thrush is one of the most common diseases of women. To eliminate inflammation and relieve unpleasant symptoms of the disease will help cream with chamomile.

Ingredients:

• Decoction of dried chamomile - 50 ml;
• fresh butter - 50 g;
• vegetable oil - 3 tablespoons;
• chicken egg yolk - 2 pcs;
• glycerin - 1 tsp;
• Honey - 2 tablespoons.

Two kinds of oil to grind with each other and melt with a water bath. Then add the rest of the ingredients to the butter mixture and mix well. Put the cream in a glass dish and keep in the refrigerator. Shelf life can be up to six months.

Such a remedy to lubricate clean genitals 5 times a day. With the disappearance of symptoms, it is recommended to reduce the number of applications.

With a runny nose

The runny nose is the most common symptom of almost any viral disease. It is especially prone to children. Cure it by removing inflammation and swelling, will help nasal drops with chamomile infusion.

Composition:

• chamomile - 1 tbsp;
• Boiling water - 1 cup.

Add boiling water to the herb and infuse the drug for 30 minutes, then filter it. This remedy drip 2-3 drops into each nasal passage 3 times a day.

In conjunctivitis

The useful herb is very often prescribed by medics to treat inflammation of the outer membranes of the eyes or conjunctivitis. It helps to eliminate pain, relieve inflammation and redness, as well as get rid of pus fluid. For the compress you will need:

• chamomile - 1 tbsp;
• Boiling water - 1 cup.

Combine the components and let the remedy to simmer in a water bath for 15 minutes, then cool for half an hour and strain with gauze. Before putting a compress, cleanse the eyes from pus with a cotton swab soaked in a solution of furacilin. Then soak cotton pads in chamomile infusion and place them on the eyes for 20 minutes.

For allergies

Allergic reactions are not uncommon in today's world. Chamomile can reduce itching, stop the spread of the rash and reduce symptoms. Means from such a plant are used externally and are quite simple.

Ingredients:

• Chamomile - 4 tbsp;
• boiling water.

Pour the plant in dry form with boiling water, so that it becomes a pulp. After that, the mass to put on a clean bandage and apply to the damaged skin for 30 minutes.

If poisoned

Poor-quality food is often the cause of poisoning. To cope with the symptoms will help the following recipe:

• 1 tsp. chamomile;
• 1 tsp. crushed plantain leaf;
• 1 tsp. spoonful of St. John's wort;
• 1 tsp. cinquefoil;
• 1 tsp. mint;
• 0.5 liters of boiling water.

Mix the ingredients with each other. Then take 2 tablespoons of the collection and pour boiling water over them, then insist 30 minutes. Infusion take 0.5 cup 4-6 times a day.

With stomatitis

To reduce the swelling of the mucosa, eliminate pain and prevent inflammation, heal wounds in the mouth and neutralize allergic reactions in stomatitis will help chamomile rinses. To prepare a healing solution, you will need the following components:

• chamomile - 1 tbsp;
• Boiling water - 1 cup.

Pour boiling water over the prepared raw materials and infuse the composition for 20 minutes, then filtered with a thick layer of gauze. Use the remedy to rinse the mouth every 2 hours, while repeating the procedure after each meal.

For maxillary sinusitis

Of course, such a serious and dangerous disease as maxillary sinusitis, chamomile can not cure, but it is possible to use it as an adjunctive therapy. It will reduce swelling, eliminate inflammation, help destroy harmful bacteria. To do this you will need:

• chamomile - 2 tablespoons;
• St. John's wort - 2 tablespoons;
• sage - 2 tablespoons;
• lavender - 2 tablespoons;
• Eucalyptus - 2 tablespoons;
• yarrow - 1 tbsp;
• succession - 1 tablespoon;
• Boiling water - 2 liters.

All dry ingredients mix and take 3 tablespoons of the resulting collection. Then pour boiling water over them and insist 60 minutes, then strain. Means to take 6 times a day for 100 ml.

With menopause

The period of menopause can give a woman a lot of problems. All the same miraculous herb will come to the rescue. The plant will help to calm the nerves, normalize blood pressure, cope with sleep disorders, increase the tone of the uterine muscles and saturate the body with vitamins. The recipe for the herbal infusion is simple:

• chamomile - 1 tbsp;
• mint - 1 tbsp. spoon;
• Valerian root - 1 tbsp;
• oregano - 1 tablespoon;
• boiling water - 1 liter.

Mix the herbs and take 3 tablespoons of the mixture. Transfer it to a thermos and pour boiling water. Insist the remedy for about 30 minutes. During the first month, the infusion is taken 4 times a day by 250 ml. Then the dose is reduced to 1 tbsp. spoon.

With insomnia

Chamomile will help normalize sleep and calm the nervous system, relieve stress and relax.

The composition of the tea:

• Chamomile flowers - 1 tbsp;
• honey - 1 tsp;
• Boiling water - 200 ml.

Combine the components and insist 20 minutes, covered with a lid, then strain and add honey. Take a remedy for 2 times a day.

With psoriasis

The magic flower is considered a good prophylactic when diagnosed with psoriasis. Chamomile helps to relieve inflammation, reduce peeling and itching. It is taken in the form of infusions, decoctions, lotions and compresses.

Recipe:

• chamomile - 1 tbsp;
• Boiling water - 250 ml.

Combine the components and insist 15 minutes, then strain. Take a drink three times a day.

With herpes

Chamomile is a natural antiseptic that helps to stop inflammation, relieve itching and burning, promoting rapid healing of wounds. It is better to use it internally to boost the immune system and cope with the virus. A common herbal tea will do for this purpose:

• Chamomile flowers - 1 tbsp;
• Honey - 1 tsp;
• Boiling water - 250 ml.

Combine the components and insist for 15 minutes in a closed container, then strain and add a scoop of honey. Take the remedy 2 times a day, and with the infusion without adding sweet delicacy, wipe the injured area of the skin for faster healing.

Types of healing compositions with chamomile

To heal with the help of herbs, both healers and physicians recommend preparing on their basis infusions, decoctions, teas and ointments. These remedies are easy to make and apply. They can be made by yourself, without resorting to the help of specialists, and used for prevention or to combat ailments.

Infusion .

Infusion made on the basis of chamomile flowers is an extremely useful product. He has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, antipyretic and other properties that are inherent in the plant as a whole.

Such a product can be prepared in two ways: cold and hot.

1. For external use, it is suitable cold infusion. To prepare it, 10 teaspoonfuls of chamomile should be combined with 400 ml of cold water and allowed to stand for 10 hours. After that, strain and use as directed.
2. Hot infusion is prepared as follows: 1 tbsp. spoon of herb to add 200 ml of boiling water and insist for half an hour. Then filter it. As a rule, experts advise taking such a remedy before meals.

Tincture .

Tincture is made with the addition of alcohol-containing components. Its action is more effective, but it is because of alcohol that the drug is not suitable for everyone. For example, its use in children is not recommended. In authorized cases, the tincture is taken to get rid of liver disease, kidney disease, flatulence, intestinal disorders, headache and toothache, depression and colds. The composition includes:

• 100 g of chamomile;
• 250 ml of vodka.

The components combine in a glass pot and put for a week in a warm place, out of reach of sunlight, shaking periodically. After a week, strain the tincture and pour into a bottle, adding alcohol to get the original volume of the preparation. Then hide again in the dark for a week, and after this period, filter a second time.

Store in the refrigerator, use by diluting in water (250 ml), no more than 15 drops 3 times a day.

Decoction .

Decoction is recommended in the same cases as the infusion. Use it both internally and externally. He can be used for medical and cosmetic purposes (to rinse hair, eliminate acne, reduce skin inflammation). To prepare it, the following ingredients are needed:

• Chamomile flowers - 4 tbsp;
• Boiling water - 500 ml.

Combine the components and let the remedy to simmer in a water bath for 15 minutes, then cool for half an hour and strain with gauze.

Tea

A tasty drink, the benefits of which can hardly be overestimated, is used for all diseases subject to chamomile. It is especially effective for nervous stress and weakened immunity. Tea is prepared using not only one herb, but also adding to it other plants and products: mint, melissa, cardamom, cinnamon, honey, lemon. Nutritionists do not recommend drinking more than 2-3 cups of tea a day, so as not to cause complications in the body in the form of allergies, diarrhea, nausea.

To prepare the drink is simple. You will need:

• Chamomile flowers - 1 tbsp;
• Boiling water - 250 ml.

Combine the components and infuse for 15 minutes in a sealed container, then strain. Before using, you can add honey, lemon, and in the process of brewing - cinnamon.

The ointment

The ointment, which includes chamomile, perfectly copes with various skin diseases, removing inflammation and smoothing the cover. It is quite possible to prepare such a remedy on your own.

Composition:

• Decoction of chamomile flowers - 50 ml;
• Butter, up to 65% fat content - 50 g;
• vegetable oil - 3 tablespoons;
• chicken yolk - 2 pcs;
• glycerin - 1 tsp;
• honey - 2 tablespoons;
• Camphor alcohol - 30 ml.

Mix the two types of oil with each other and melt in a water bath. Then add the rest of the ingredients to the mixture and stir thoroughly. Transfer the resulting product to a glass jar and store in the refrigerator. You can use the ointment for six months.

Another product that can be obtained from chamomile is oil. It has a brownish, blue or greenish color. The product is quite thick with a sweet and spicy odor.

The production uses a method of distillation of fresh inflorescences and water-steam processing, which allows you to save almost all the vitamin-mineral complex. Its composition includes the following components:

• vitamins A, B1, B2, B4, D;
• ascorbic acid;
• flavonoids;
• organic acids;
• bitterness;
• blue oil;
• fatty acids;
• coumarins;
• glycosides;
• phytosterols;
• triterpene alcohol.

This content of useful substances endows the oil with such properties:

• antibacterial;
• disinfectant;
• diaphoretic;
• choleretic;
• antidepressant;
• regenerative;
• disinfectant;
• antipyretic;
• antispasmodic;
• sedative;
• anti-inflammatory;
• brain stimulant;
• antipyretic.

On this basis, its effects extend to the treatment of the following ailments:

• menopause;
• female intermittent pains;
• jaundice;
• disorders of the liver;
• vomiting;
• eczema;
• burns;
• psoriasis;
• skin inflammations of various kinds;
• flatulence;
• indigestion;
• ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract;
• diseases of the urogenital system and kidneys;
• anemia;
• otitis;
• gingivitis;
• periodontal disease;
• stomatitis;
• migraine;
• neuralgia.

The oil is used for inhalations, gargle solutions, compresses, as nasal drops. It is also taken internally, mixed with honey or lemon juice, used in aromatherapy, inhaling the healing vapors, and in cosmetology to cope with skin and hair problems, eliminating dandruff, separation, flabby and uneven skin.

However, do not forget that the product is not recommended for use in pregnancy, taking other homeopathic remedies and individual intolerance. Otherwise, the oil has proven to be an amazing remedy that can keep you healthy.

Cosmetic applications

Cosmetology companies that produce skin care products for the face, body, and hair appreciate the usefulness of chamomile in preserving youth and beauty. They add it to shampoos, masks, conditioners, rinses, tonics, creams and other preparations. The flower's abilities, based on the useful micro and macro elements of the plant's composition, in this area are reduced to the following effects:

• aseptic;
• purifying;
• tonic;
• anti-inflammatory;
• healing;
• anti-aging;
• reducing swelling;
• to eliminate blackheads, pimples and other skin rashes;
• Strengthening hair;
• Antiseborrheic.

In addition, chamomile is considered a natural "dye" because it can give the hair a golden color. It is these abilities that have become the fundamental factor for the use of the herb, and more precisely its inflorescences, in the creation of cosmetic products.

Unfortunately, to pamper your skin with really effective and high-quality products, you need to spend a lot of money. That is why recipes for home remedies for skin and hair, which were used by ancient beauties, are popular and in demand nowadays.

Anti-aging ice

Ingredients:

• chamomile flowers - 1 tsp;
• linden blossom - 1 tsp;
• sage - 1 tsp;
• Boiling water - 1 cup.

Mix the dry components with each other and take 2 tablespoons of the resulting herbal mixture. Then pour boiling water over the raw material and infuse for 30 minutes. After that, filter the composition and pour into special molds for ice. Remove to the freezer. Use cubes twice a day.

Against wrinkles around the eyes

Ingredients:

• pistachio oil - 1 tbsp;
• sandalwood oil - 1 drop;
• rose oil - 1 drop;
• Chamomile oil - 1 drop.

Mix the oils. Then take a cloth napkin and soak it in the resulting mixture, then apply it to the skin around the eyes and keep it for 30 minutes. Repeat the procedure no more than two times a day. The visible effect comes already after the 5th application.

For oily skin

Ingredients:

• chamomile inflorescences - 1 tsp;
• linden blossom - 1 tsp;
• Elderberry inflorescence - 1 tsp;
• honey - 0.5 tsp;
• Boiling water - 200 ml.

Pour boiling water over the herbal ingredients and boil on a low flame for 10 minutes. Then strain the broth and cool. Grind oat flakes to powdered form. Combine the broth with oat powder and honey. The consistency of the product should be mushy. Masque to put a thick layer on the face for a quarter of an hour, and then wash with warm water, then repeat the procedure of washing, but already with cool water.

Rinse .

Ingredients:

• Chamomile flowers - 4 tbsp;
• boiling water - 1500 ml.

The components should be combined and boiled for 5 minutes, then strain. Rinse your hair after each washing.

Chamomile compress for deep cleansing

Ingredients:

• dried inflorescences of chamomile apothecary - 15 g;
• water - 45 g;
• Bergamot oil - a few drops.

Pour water over chamomile and put on a low heat. Boil for 30 minutes, then strain with a thick layer of gauze. Then add to the hot mixture essential oil. After that, dip a piece of thin cloth in the broth, whose temperature at the start of the procedure should be 55 or 60 ° C and apply it to the face for 10 minutes. Afterwards apply your favorite mask or usual cream, nourishing the skin.

Such a procedure perfectly cleanses the deeper layers of the epidermis, relieves swelling and removes harmful substances.

Against Acne

Ingredients:

• chamomile flowers - 6 g;
• Calendula flowers - 4 g;
• Blue clay - 8 g;
• Plantain decoction;
• grapefruit water for washing.

Mix the dried herbal ingredients with each other and grind with a mortar or coffee grinder. Then add the clay to the resulting collection. After that, stir the mixture again and add the decoction of the plantain to make the product sufficiently viscous.

Before starting the process, cosmetologists advise cleansing the face with micellar water. After cleansing, apply the resulting clay and raspberry mask on the skin, distributing it evenly with a cosmetic spatula. Hold the product on the face for 8 minutes, then wash your face with grapefruit water.

Can I Give Chamomile to Dogs and Cats

Four-legged friends often try to join the table of their owners. Sometimes this can lead to negative consequences, but not in the case of chamomile.

Veterinarians say that the plant is useful not only for people, but also for their pets. The herb can be used for the following diseases in cats and dogs:

• intestinal spasms;
• gastritis chronic or in the acute phase;
• inflammation of the large and small intestine;
• bloating;
• liver disorders;
• diseases of the bladder;
• gallbladder pathologies;
• disorders of the kidneys;
• hyperexcitability;
• hysteria;
• neurosis;
• seizures;
• wounds;
• burns;
• boils.

These diseases are well treated with chamomile infusions and decoctions, which are prepared at the rate of 1 part of the raw material for 10 ml of liquid. The daily dose for pets is calculated on the basis of breed and weight. The daily rate of inflorescences of the plant for dogs should not be more than 2 g, and for cats - above 1 g.

Also, the flower is used for inhalations and external applications to stop inflammation in damaged areas of the body and speed up the healing process.

Contraindications for use

Chamomile is a unique herb. Its benefits have been appreciated since Pliny the Elder, who described it in his writings as an ingredient in antidotes against snake bites, and since Avicenna, who used it to prepare energizing and revitalizing teas. But despite its abilities to have a beneficial effect on human health, the use of chamomile can be accompanied by unpleasant consequences:

• Nausea;
• vomiting;
• epigastric pain;
• high blood pressure;
• Internal bleeding;
• allergic reaction;
• itching;
• edema;
• Local hyperemia.

Such side effects are possible in case of abuse of herbal preparations.

In addition, the flower has contraindications for use:

• pregnancy;
• individual intolerance;
• children under the age of 6 months;
• The use of medications incompatible with the intake of products from chamomile;
• chronic diseases.

In these situations, it is necessary to consult with a specialist, who, based on the health data of the patient, will be able to assess all the risks of complications associated with the intake of the plant and drugs containing it.

So, chamomile is an amazing flower, charming with its tenderness and fragility, but impressing with its healing power and strength. It is an ancient herb, capable of healing people, which has survived until today and has not lost its unique abilities. This herb is capable of healing many ailments and preserving beauty. Therefore, even in the absence of direct indications, sometimes it is still worth having a cup of chamomile tea, not only to taste, but also to feel all the benefits of nature.

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