Motherhood is a time when women become more conscious of adopting a healthier lifestyle. They practice an increased openness and awareness to the benefits of more natural alternative health remedies like teas from plants and flowers.
Chamomile is a daisy-like plant that comes from the Asteraceae family, the most popular types being German (wild) chamomile and Roman (garden) chamomile. This plant has been used since ancient times for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties and additional health benefits.
The chamomile leaves and flowers are edible, and they differ in taste. Chamomile leaves or whole flowers are steeped in hot water, and the liquid is consumed as a hot herbal tea. It can also be enjoyed as a cold beverage. One can add honey, a slice of lemon or other herbs.
Hot, warm, moist flowers can be used externally as a medicinal compress. Chamomile may ease the itching of eczema and other rashes. It can reduce skin inflammation when used as a lotion or added in oil form to a bath.
Two Kinds of Chamomile
Roman Chamomile
Roman Chamomile has sedative effects and used for centuries by mothers for the following:
- Relieve restlessness, aid in sleeping
- Calm down their crying children
- Relieve earache
- Teething problems and colic
- Healing of diaper rash (as an oil or wash form)
- Infantile convulsions
- Treat upset stomach
German Chamomile
German chamomile is a more common type and used for:
- General relaxation and relieve stress
- Skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, skin ulcers, wounds, or burns (infusion or bath form)
- Chamomile’s mildly sedative and muscle-relaxing effects may help those who have insomnia to fall asleep more easily
- Immune-boosting properties and helps to fight against cold
- To relieve nausea, heartburn, and stress-related bloating
- Treat eye inflammation and infection. Cooled chamomile tea can be used in a compress to help soothe tired, irritated eyes. It may even help treat conjunctivitis.
- Regularly drinking chamomile tea has been shown to reduce pain associated with arthritis and other painful inflammations.
- Heal mouth sores, sore throat and prevent gum disease
- Reduce menstrual cramps. Its ability to relax the smooth muscles of the uterus helps ease the discomfort of menstrual cramping.
- Chamomile is used to lighten hair colour and get a blonder appearance.
- Chamomile can lighten a skin tone and calm down redness.
Note: Due to its sedation effect, use chamomile with caution if you drive or operate machinery. The findings of the use of chamomile in pregnancy are conflicting. Please consult your health professional before using chamomile during pregnancy.
Written By: Tina I. Ureten MD, RDMS, RDCS
Invite families and friends to witness this memorable event of your pregnancy. Celebrate that special child-bonding moment with your loved ones, wherever they are in the world.
There is nothing more beautiful than your baby's heartbeats. Save that sound forever in a UC Baby® Heartbeat Bear®. It's not just a great keepsake, but also an effective way to sooth your baby to sleep.
