Drinking chamomile. Chamomile: properties and contraindications. Chamomile: description of the annual

Chamomile is one of the most famous medicinal plants in the temperate climate zone. Distributed along with plantain, chamomile has long been used for medical and preventive purposes. The medicinal properties of chamomile have been known for a long time: chamomile flowers, teas prepared from them, chamomile decoctions, tinctures, and extracts have a mild anti-inflammatory, disinfectant, and analgesic effect.

Scientists of the ancient world endowed the whole plant and individual parts of chamomile with healing properties: for example, Avicenna used herbal teas for patients to strengthen and restore strength, and according to the method of Pliny the Elder, all parts of chamomile were used to make antidotes for snake bites. It is not surprising that the use of chamomile for medicinal purposes has not ceased; a common medicinal plant is still used in medicine and cosmetology today.

Chamomile: description of the annual

Chamomile belongs to the annual plants of the genus Matricaria the Astrov family. The Latin name for chamomile means “uterine herb,” since in ancient Rome healers attached great importance to this plant for treating gynecological inflammations and diseases.

The plant belongs to wild plants cultivated on individual farms for the purpose of collecting medicinal herbs. The average height of a plant stem suitable for use for medicinal and prophylactic purposes is no less than 20 cm and no more than 40. Deviations from the height parameters indicate unsuitable growing conditions, lack of sunlight, and possible chamomile disease, which affect its chemical composition and reduce its effectiveness. manufactured drugs.

The stem of the plant is thin, erect; inside the stem there is a cavity along its entire length. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem, have a narrow linear shape with pointed lobes of dissections. Length - from 2 to 5 cm. The root shaft is thin, with a limited number of branches. The flowers are multiple, small, with a characteristic combination of a yellow convex tubular center and white petals around the circumference. Reproduction occurs by spreading small seeds that ripen in flower baskets.

Differences between chamomile and other members of the family

White narrow petals are located on the receptacle horizontally in a circle, and towards the end of the flowering period they descend down to the stem. The tubular head of the flower head is hollow, with a pronounced conical shape, unlike other flat varieties.

Chemical compounds that make up chamomile

The use of the entire herbaceous plant is currently considered inappropriate: the highest concentration of valuable chemical compounds is observed in chamomile flowers. Among the chemicals found in chamomile flowers are:

• coumarin compounds;
• bioflavonoids (apigenin, luteolin, quercetin in small quantities);
• polyyne compounds;
• salicylic, isovaleric, caprylic, antimisic organic acid in unbound forms;
• phytosterol;
• vitamins (ascorbic, nicotinic acids);
• carotenes;
• polysaccharide compounds;
• protein, tannins;
• bitterness, gum, mucus, etc.

Up to 50% of the composition is accounted for by sesquiterpenoids (farnesene, bisabolol, myrcene monoterpene, etc.).
From dried inflorescences, up to 1% of essential oils are isolated, blue in color and rich in composition, without a strong, pronounced odor. Chamomile essential oil has a pronounced antihistamine, anti-inflammatory and bactericidal effect due to the active substance included in the composition - azulene chamazulene, synthesized during distillation from the lactones matricarine and matricene.

The range of medicinal properties of chamomile

Major studies conducted to study the properties of chamomile and dosage forms made from it confirmed the effectiveness of the drugs as antispasmodics of smooth muscles, which also reduce the tone of blood vessels and have a mild sedative and antidepressant effect.

Use of chamomile: properties and contraindications

For medicinal purposes, chamomile extract, chamomile infusion, ready-made dosage forms or those prepared at home, essential oil, and herbal teas from the dried inflorescences of the plant are used.
The main areas of application of chamomile:

• diseases and lesions of the epithelium, mainly of bacterial and inflammatory etiology;
• diseases and dysfunctions of the biliary system;
• diseases of the respiratory system, accompanied by cough, swelling of the mucous membranes, spasms;
• stomach diseases with inflammatory, erosive lesions of the mucous membrane, both in the acute and chronic stages;
• inflammation of the organs and tracts of the genitourinary system;
• other inflammatory processes of tissues and organs;
• diseases associated with individual hypersensitivity to various irritants (bronchial asthma, eczema, gastritis of allergic etiology);
• reduction of pain, including dental and migraine pain;
• sleep disturbances, increased anxiety, irritability;
• injuries, sprains of connective tissues, ligaments.

Dosage forms of chamomile and their use

Various medicinal forms of chamomile (chamomile extract, infusion, herbal teas, essential oil and manufactured creams containing extracts, chamomile solutions and other forms) are used depending on the types and stages of diseases and dysfunctions internally or externally, both for local and and systemic action.

Chamomile infusion

Chamomile tinctures are used internally for the following diseases and conditions:

• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (gastritis, gastropathy, colitis, enteritis and mixed forms of diseases), biliary system, pathologies and dysfunctions of the liver, diarrhea of ​​non-viral etiology, spasms of the intestines, stomach, increased gas formation;
• inflammatory processes of the respiratory tract and organs;
• hyperthermia;
• painful menstruation;
• acute respiratory diseases;
• emotional and mental stress, exhaustion, sleep disturbances, increased irritability, loss of appetite, etc.

External use of chamomile infusions is recommended in the following cases:

• inflammatory processes in the oral cavity, pharynx (tonsillitis, non-atrophic pharyngitis, gingivitis, stomatitis, periodontal disease) - in the form of rinsing and washing cavities;
• for skin disorders: burns, frostbite, ulcers, erosion, eczema, inflammatory rashes, long-healing wounds - in the form of a composition for compresses;
• inflammatory processes of the eye mucosa - in the form of rinsing and lotions;
• to reduce the severity of inflammatory processes of hemorrhoids - in the form of a solution for microenemas, local compresses for external localization of the nodes, sitz baths;
• acne, acne - in the form of a composition for wiping, including frozen, or as a component of lotions;
• for manifestations of rheumatism, gouty attacks, sprains, dislocations, arthritis - in the form of compresses;
• with increased sweating of the palms and feet - as a solution for wiping.

Preparation of decoctions and infusions of chamomile

To prepare the decoction, you need to take 4 tablespoons of dry medicinal raw materials, heat them in a water bath for half an hour along with 300 ml of boiling water. After cooling, strain and squeeze out the flowers. The prepared broth is stored in the refrigerator for no more than two days.
Infusion: 100 ml (half a glass) 2-3 times a day after meals. Adding honey is allowed.
For chamomile infusion, 4 tablespoons of dried inflorescences are poured into 200 ml of boiling water and left for 3 hours in a thermos. After infusion, filter.
Infusion intake: up to 4 times a day, no more than 50 ml at a time.

Herb tea

The most common recipe for herbal tea, combining chamomile flowers with other medicinal herbs, is used for a sedative effect and reducing the manifestations of flatulence.

To prepare tea with chamomile, the following proportions are followed: chamomile flowers (dried) are mixed with cumin seeds and valerian root in a ratio of 3:5:2, for example, for 6 parts (spoons, measures) of chamomile, take 10 parts of cumin and 3 of valerian rhizomes .

The mixture of herbs and chamomile is mixed, for every 2 tablespoons of the mixture, take 400 ml (2 cups) of boiling water, leave in a sealed container for 20 minutes, filter, squeeze out the raw materials. For sedative, calming and carminative effects, take 100 ml (1/2 cup) after a night's sleep and in the evening.

Pharmaceutical chamomile for baths

Pharmaceutical chamomile in the form of solutions, infusions and extracts mixed with salt is used for baths with a therapeutic and prophylactic effect on both the skin surface and the body as a whole.
Chamomile as a component of solutions for water procedures is recommended in the following cases:

• in the presence of skin diseases of an inflammatory, allergic nature, dry skin, superficial cracks of the feet;
• with cramps in the calf muscles;
• for sleep disorders, increased irritability, anxiety;
• to reduce swelling of the legs.

To make the solution, you can use the entire plant, excluding the roots. 500 g of chamomile: stems, leaves, flowers, pour 2 liters of water, bring to a boil and keep boiling for 10 minutes. After straining and squeezing the raw material, the broth is added to the water.
The decoction, when added to bath water, helps with a regular course of therapeutic procedures of 2 weeks, with water procedures every other day. The duration of one bath is 30 minutes.

Topical cream

The fat composition of the cream, which includes chamomile, is recommended for use with the following characteristics of the skin:

• dryness, formation of surface cracks, peeling of the epithelium;
• tendency to hypersensitivity, irritation, redness;
• lethargy, decreased turgor.

To make the cream, mix 50 g of low-fat butter, 3 tbsp. l. vegetable (sunflower, olive) oil and melt the mixture in a water bath.
To the fat mixture add 2 chicken yolks, 1 teaspoon of glycerin solution, 30 ml of camphor alcohol, 2 tablespoons of natural honey and 50 ml of chamomile infusion prepared according to the recipe above.
The resulting composition is stored in a glass container with a tightly screwed lid in the refrigerator. Apply externally according to indications.

The use of chamomile for douching and contraindications for women

• vaginosis of specific and nonspecific etiology;
• cystitis;
• vaginal candidiasis (thrush);
• erosive, inflammatory processes of the vaginal and cervical mucosa beyond the acute stage.

Vaginal douching using this medicinal plant is contraindicated for use by women due to the following factors:

• age group over 40 years (due to a hormonally caused decrease in the moisture content of the mucous membrane and its increased sensitivity);
• gestational and postpartum period;
• during menstrual flow;
• in acute inflammatory processes;
• during the recovery period after surgery, spontaneous or instrumental termination of pregnancy.

To prepare the solution, mix 1 teaspoon of crushed dry inflorescences with 200 ml of boiling water, leave for 30 minutes in a sealed container, cool and filter the resulting suspension.
Douching is carried out before bedtime, every day for a week. The solution is injected into the vagina over the bathtub, using a clean syringe, warm, and the introduction is slow.

Chamomile as a component of cosmetic products

The components of the medicinal plant, their beneficial properties and the wide distribution of the areola of growth allow us to speak of chamomile as a plant popular in cosmetology, included in many lotions, creams, and shampoos.

At home, infusions and decoctions are used to reduce dry skin, reduce inflammation, strengthen hair and give it shine. Decoctions for home remedies may include various medicinal herbs (celandine, oak bark, birch buds), lemon juice, honey, vegetable oil, egg yolk and chamomile in the form of a decoction. Depending on the desired effect, appropriate components and application methods are selected.

Chamomile essential oil

Essential oil from chamomile is used for aromatherapy, taken internally and externally, depending on the indications. You should remember about possible allergic and individual reactions, as well as the need to consult with your doctor before starting use.

Aromatherapy purposes

Chamomile oil is used in aromatherapy to disinfect the air and have a mild sedative effect on the body. Use the oil in the evening, the therapy session lasts up to 20 minutes

Taking chamomile essential oil internally

The high concentration of active substances, the likelihood of allergic reactions and the lack of scientifically approved doses when using essential oil internally are the reasons for the cautious attitude of specialists towards it. When used independently, it is necessary to start with small doses and stop taking it at the first negative manifestations.
Essential oil is used for gastritis and peptic ulcers outside of periods of exacerbation, weakened immunity, and unstable emotional background. Oral administration is carried out in a course of up to 1 week, twice a day. 2 drops of oil are mixed with 1 teaspoon of honey, possibly washed down with water or weak tea.
Contraindications: pregnancy, lactation, acute forms of diseases, age under 6 years.

External use

The non-aggressive effect on the epidermis of chamomile oil allows it to be used on the skin without dilution, in its pure form. Targeted and short-term (up to 10 minutes) exposure is recommended for the following skin conditions:

• allergic reactions accompanied by dryness, peeling;
• thermal and sunburns without violating the integrity of the skin, frostbite;
• swelling and local reaction to insect bites;
• acne, acne, rosacea;
• long-term healing of scratches, non-penetrating wounds, healing stage after minor surgical procedures;
• alopecia;
• fungal diseases of the skin of the scalp.

Other uses of essential oil:

• enrichment of cosmetics, creams, lotions, compositions in the proportion of 3 drops of oil per 5 ml of composition;
• as an additive to a mixture for body massage;
• for aromatherapy when taking a bath (up to 10 drops diluted in the base for one bath);
• to enhance the effectiveness of mixtures with other essential oils.

Medicinal chamomile for children: medicinal properties, methods of use and age restrictions

A ready-made mixture of children's teas with chamomile is recommended for use from 1 year. Tea has a mild sedative, spasmodic effect, improves digestion, and helps strengthen the immune system. To prepare the solution, you must read the instructions for use.
When preparing herbal tea for children yourself, the finished decoction is diluted with water, reducing the concentration intended for an adult by half.
When using decoctions and infusions externally, it is also necessary to increase the concentration to 50% compared to the base. Baths with decoction, lotions, and rubs can be used from birth in the absence of allergic reactions.
Essential oil is prohibited for use until a child reaches the age of six. Any use of infusions and decoctions outside the age recommendations and volumes should be consulted with a pediatrician.

Possible side effects

Despite the beneficial properties of medicinal plants, when taken orally, in excess of concentration, individual intolerance reaction or concomitant diseases, the following side effects of decoctions, infusions and essential oils are possible:

• nausea, vomiting, pain in the epigastric region;
• increased blood pressure;
• internal bleeding;
• allergic reactions up to bronchospasm and Quincke's edema.

External use may be accompanied by the appearance of a rash, skin itching, local hyperemia, and swelling.
If there is any sign of intolerance, use should be stopped immediately.

Independent collection and preparation of medicinal raw materials

Depending on the subsequent methods of use, chamomile flowers or the entire above-ground part are collected.
To make extracts for internal use, the inflorescences of the plant are collected; for external use, the entire plant is collected, with the exception of the roots. The harvesting period is throughout the summer, subject to flowering.
Drying is carried out in a dry, shady, well-ventilated room with a temperature not exceeding 40°C. Fabric or paper bags are used to store raw materials; shelf life is no more than 1 year.

Forms of release of drugs

Medicinal plants are produced both in monoforms and as part of herbal mixtures, dietary supplements and cosmetics. The most common forms:

• dry crushed raw materials;
• liquid extracts, tinctures, including alcoholic ones;
• fat compositions containing extract;
• essential oils;
• creams, ointments with herbal ingredients.

Chamomile infusion or tea has been actively used in medicine since ancient times. Today the plant is finding new uses. In this article we will look at what it is and everything you should know about this medicinal flower.

Where does chamomile live?

Both Avicenna and Hippocrates used this simple-looking flower in their practice. Hundreds of years have passed, as before, it occupies the first place of honor in naturopathy. Despite the fact that this botanical genus is quite extensive, only 2 types of plants are used for medicinal purposes:

1. Roman chamomile- it is found in Argentina, North America and Europe. This perennial plant has a strong odor. It is widely used for the production of aroma oils and for decorative purposes.
2. Pharmaceutical chamomile- This is an annual, most common plant. It grows on all continents in temperate climates.

Plant composition

The infusion, the benefits and harms of which are described in detail in this article, contains an incredible amount of useful substances. Among the most healing:

Benefits and harms: beneficial properties

The main medicinal properties of this plant include:

Contraindications

Chamomile infusion, the benefits and harms of which have been known to mankind for many years, has a number of contraindications. Many people understand that disadvantages are a direct continuation of advantages. So, no matter how healing chamomile is for health, its use should be completely excluded or limited in the following conditions:

• Allergy to ragweed. It is worth noting that ragweed and chamomile belong to the same botanical family, and intolerance to one remedy can lead to an allergy to the second. If ragweed pollen makes you choke and sneeze, start using chamomile preparations with small doses and monitor for any negative effects.
• Chamomile activates the action of all anticoagulants- this must be taken into account when taking them.
• Lactation- until now, the effect of chamomile on lactation has been poorly studied.
• If you are soon to surgery, a couple of weeks before it you need to stop using chamomile preparations. Due to this, you can avoid bleeding that may occur due to poor coagulation.
• Effects are more intense when consumed with chamomile sedatives and anti-inflammatory drugs, drugs to normalize heart rate and blood pressure I, which requires mandatory dose adjustment - thanks to this you can avoid drowsiness, hypotension and apathy.

Let us immediately note that today it is not known what will happen if you take chamomile infusion for a long time (more than a month). The benefits and harms for men have also not been precisely studied, but we can say for sure that using the product for more than 4 weeks can cause irritability, fatigue and weakness; it is better not to test these risks on your own body.

Camomile tea

What else is interesting about chamomile? Harm and benefit (use can cause both) are determined by its composition, method of use and the presence of contraindications. When using products based on it, be sure to first study all the recommendations.

Flower preparations exist in various forms, the most popular being chamomile infusion. Its benefits and harms for the human body are best studied today, and preparation takes a few minutes.

Below we will describe the most common indications for the use of this infusion, methods of preparation and dosage.

Infusion for children

A light infusion of chamomile treats colic in young children. Pour a teaspoon of dried material into a glass of boiling water, close the vessel with a lid and remove for half an hour. We filter the resulting product, and dilute the infusion with water - it will turn pale yellow. We give the drink to the baby every time after a meal: drinking will eliminate bloating and fermentation in the intestines.

Regular infusion

To prepare such an infusion of chamomile, the benefits and harms of which are described in this article, you need to follow the same recipe as the drink above, but at the same time take 2 teaspoons of the material per glass of hot water and infuse it in a thermos or sealed container for 2-3 hours.

Treatment of internal diseases

An infusion of normal concentration is used:

• For long periods, menstrual cramps: 100 ml 4 times a day.
• For flatulence, indigestion, cramps, colic - 70 ml the same number of times.
• Drink 100 ml of this infusion once at night - this helps you fall asleep quickly. This harmless remedy for the nervous system can be used if you want to have a good rest before a difficult day.
• For a runny nose, stomatitis, or acute inflammatory pathology of the respiratory tract, rinse your mouth with a glass of this infusion - at least 4 times a day.
• For vulvitis, colpitis and thrush, douching with an infusion diluted with water (1:1) can be useful. Usually a liter of water is used for the procedure.
• Athletes, especially people working out in the gym, will also benefit from chamomile infusion. The benefits and harms for men in this case are obvious - warm compresses with a wrapping agent will be effective for bruises or sprained ligaments, although they will only help from the 2nd day after the injury.
• The infusion can also be used for eye washes for conjunctivitis.
• Cleansing enemas with the product will help with intestinal problems, including hemorrhoids, as well as constipation.

Treatment of skin pathologies

For boils, pimples, and ulcers, chamomile infusion is also used (its benefits and harm are already known to you). A clean cotton cloth is soaked in the product and applied - like a lotion - to the affected areas.

For skin rashes, eczema and dermatitis, use an infusion of 60 ml orally three times a day. They also take baths with chamomile (by the way, even babies are bathed in them). In this case, take 100 grams of material per bucket of boiling water.

You can freeze the chamomile infusion in the refrigerator. This will make an excellent cleanser in the morning. Chamomile ice rejuvenates, tones the skin, reduces inflammation for acne vulgaris, smoothes wrinkles and lightens circles under the eyes. It is worth noting that there is a contraindication for the use of such a product - rosacea.

The next effective way to deal with circles under the eyes is to cover them every day for 5 minutes with cotton pads soaked in chamomile infusion. In the same way, you can quickly eliminate swelling of the eyes.

If your hair has become brittle, lost its shine, splits and falls out, chamomile infusion should be used as a conditioner after shampoo. In this case, pour about a liter of infusion onto your head and gently spread it through your hair. Next, it is advisable to avoid blow-drying and let your hair dry on its own.

If your feet sweat a lot, dip them in a bowl of infusion before bed. The effect will be enhanced by oak bark (use with chamomile in equal proportions). Daily half-hour baths can remove fungus, heal minor injuries on the fingers and feet from a poorly done pedicure, and restore skin tone.

Features of a strong decoction

For severe skin diseases, the normal strength of the infusion may not be enough: a chamomile decoction is needed. To do this, pour 4 tablespoons of the material into a liter of hot water, remove it from the heat, bring the liquid to a boil again, and then leave it on the stove for 10 minutes. Allow to cool, then strain through cheesecloth. It is worth noting that it is better not to take this chamomile decoction orally. Its benefits and harms are explained by too high a concentration.

There is an opinion that the decoction and infusion in the refrigerator do not retain their properties for long - up to three days. Therefore, it is better to avoid storing liquids for future use.

Oil infusion

An unusual recipe for chamomile is an oil infusion (oil). An easy way to prepare it is cold.

For this we will need: 1 cup of raw materials and 3 cups of oil for your skin (grape seed, almond, olive, sunflower). Fill the herb with oil in a glass jar and leave to infuse for two weeks. Cool and dark conditions are an excellent choice for infusion. Sometimes we shake the container and wait for the flowers in it to settle to the bottom.

As soon as this happens, strain the product and store it for no longer than a year, using it as needed - to remove makeup, in various masks, on hair for wrapping, to soften chapped skin.

Chamomile: medicinal properties and contraindications of tea

Sometimes (about a couple of times a week) you can drink chamomile infusion as tea. This drink will promote calm and relaxation, and also strengthen the immune system, thereby helping the body fight off various chronic infections. Let's look at a few tea recipes:

1. Classic tea: brew a teaspoon of raw material in a glass of hot water, boil and let it brew for 20 minutes. Do not take this chamomile decoction orally often - its benefits and harms can replace each other due to an excess of this remedy in the body. Do not add sugar to herbal teas: drink it as a snack with sweet dates, honey, raisins or dried apricots.
2. Chamomile-melissa tea. Mix 0.5 tablespoons of herbs and brew with a glass of boiling water. This drink will be useful for intestinal colic and colds.
3. Mint and chamomile tea. To a spoonful of chamomile you need to add a spoonful of mint. This drink has a sedative effect and has no negative side effects.
4. The benefits and harms of chamomile tea for women are interesting. The drink below helps cleanse the body and helps you endure the feeling of hunger - this is important if you are on a diet to lose weight. A set of herbs: mix 4 herbs - mint, chamomile, sweet clover and St. John's wort - in equal quantities per teaspoon, brew with water.

So we told you about a wonderful remedy - this infusion. You have learned the benefits and harms of it, so you can start healing right now!

Chamomile has long been revered by our ancestors. After all, it not only contained a symbol of beauty and love, it also perfectly helped our great-grandfathers overcome many ailments. Thus, to this day, the medicinal properties of chamomile have not lost any of their popularity among doctors. The plant is actively used both in folk medicine and in traditional medical practice.

A little about healing

Medieval healers and modern doctors have proven that chamomile, the medicinal properties and contraindications of which have been carefully studied more than once, is truly effective for many health problems.

And here are the effects it has:

• anti-inflammatory;
• painkiller;
• sedative;
• antibacterial;
• antispasmodic;
• anticonvulsant;
• hemostatic.

The herb chamomile, whose medicinal properties are simply limitless, is an excellent help in cases of colitis, gastritis, gastric ulcers and similar lesions of the duodenum. The plant can have a beneficial effect on the digestive tract. Patients with similar disorders, taking chamomile infusions, noted an improvement in metabolism, and their belching disappeared. This flower is considered an excellent antiseptic and wound healing agent. And using it in combination with calendula and yarrow eliminates inflammatory processes. Chamomile infusion perfectly dilates blood vessels and increases blood clotting.

The healing properties of chamomile make it possible to use it in case of flatulence. It should also be noted that tea with honey and the described herb effectively helps fight insomnia. The specified remedy is also recommended for use for migraines. This tea will easily bring the nervous system into proper condition.

Chamomile often acts as a medicine to help cope with sore throat. In addition to the above, the flower serves as an excellent means of preventing female diseases. It (remedies from it) is able to dull pain during menstruation, and also has a positive effect in the treatment of fungal and sexually transmitted infections. Chamomile infusion is used during the treatment of cholelithiasis, using the product together with cream. When mixing vegetable (olive) oil with pureed flowers, a good mixture is obtained for the treatment of rheumatism and damaged joints.

Medicines

Chamomile is widely used in pharmaceuticals. The medicinal properties, appreciated, are contained in many excellent medicines.

1. The product "Rekutan" performs wound healing and anti-inflammatory functions. Used for colpitis and other gynecological diseases.
2. The drug "Rotokan" is actively used by dentists to dull pain.
3. Liniment "Ayurom" serves as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent for local use, helps to actively fight radiculitis, arthritis and bedsores.
4. The product "Romazulon" is used in a variety of situations: for washing and rinsing, as compresses in case of cystitis, otitis, colitis, gastritis.

The essential oil of the plant is considered a very effective bactericidal drug. That is why this remedy is often used to treat colds. It perfectly relieves inflammation of the respiratory canals and also relieves cough. In case of skin disease, the oil is used externally.

Excellent results are also observed in getting rid of herpes, psoriasis, acne and burns. As a lotion and rinse, this is the most effective remedy for periodontal disease.

The use of chamomile in folk healing

Note that various infusions are prepared from the flowers of this plant, as well as products for internal and external use. Numerous traditional medicine recipes that use chamomile, the medicinal properties of which have been revered since ancient times, have survived to this day.

• Infusion. Let's try to prepare such a medicine together. To do this, you will need to pour 1 liter of water into an enamel container and add 10 g of dried chamomile to it. The pan must be covered with a lid. Let the mixture boil over the fire for 20 minutes. After this, the broth is infused for about 40 minutes. It is recommended to take the resulting product 100 g daily up to five times.
• Decoction. You need to fill the pan with one liter of liquid, adding 20 g of flowers to it. The broth should be simmered over low heat and left for about 30 minutes. A similar medicine is used for rinsing, in case of burns, leg ulcers and wounds, and as a lotion.
• Chamomile oil is prepared as follows: pour the dried flowers of the plant into a liter container (only 4 parts), fill them with vegetable oil, and close tightly. Place the prepared composition in a warm place for about 10 days. After which the product must be filtered. The finished medicine can be stored in the refrigerator for a year. It is recommended to use this product by mixing it with regular vegetable oil (proportion 1:10).
• Chamomile tea. It should be used immediately before bedtime, adding a little honey to the drink. This helps to cope with insomnia and normalize the nervous system. To prepare the above infusion, you will need to pour a spoonful of chamomile with a glass of hot water. The product should be wrapped and left for 30 minutes. After which the tea is filtered.

Colds

For such ailments, people gladly use chamomile flowers. The medicinal properties of the described plant are quite numerous. Therefore, they allow you to use chamomile both externally and internally. In the first case, compresses are applied and lotions are made. The second option involves rinsing and drinking.

So, hot steam from infused chamomile helps a lot with the flu, and gargling with a sore throat. When falling asleep, the patient should drink a strengthening tea made from the above-mentioned flowers, sugar and cream. This tool will help make the patient’s rest more effective. For cramps and migraines, the powder obtained from dried inflorescences (2-3 grams every few hours) helps.

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT)

As you know, medicinal chamomile, whose beneficial properties are not limited to fighting colds, also helps with a number of other ailments. It can have a good effect in case of peptic ulcers, gastritis, as well as stomach cramps. By regularly taking this remedy, you can achieve a significant improvement in the condition of the gastrointestinal tract.

In this case, you will need to brew some dried flowers of this plant (1 tablespoon) in 200 ml of boiling water. The broth must be filtered and taken several times a day, a quarter glass 10 minutes before meals. In addition, you can try another remedy: pour 2 tablespoons of chamomile with boiling water and leave for 15 minutes. The strained product is taken several times a day, 2-3 tablespoons.

A truly unique plant is chamomile.

Medicinal properties in gynecology

The healing properties of the flower are actively used not only in folk treatment, but also in traditional medicine. Today, botanists have studied a fairly large number of varieties of this plant, but in medical practice they are still accustomed to turning to the help of pharmaceutical chamomile. The described flower did not bypass gynecology either. Here they treat many women's diseases.

The main thing that specialists pay attention to is the excellent antiseptic properties of the flower. Chamomile often helps women suffering from inflammation of the reproductive organs to cope with their problems. The plant can effectively fight streptococci, fungi and other viruses. The most common procedure in this area of ​​medicine is douching with chamomile decoction. It is worth noting that the effectiveness of this remedy is very high, and it has practically no side effects.

Rheumatism and gout

A bath filled with chamomile decoction is considered an excellent remedy in the fight against joint diseases. For this procedure, you will need 8 tablespoons (tablespoons) of dried plant, infused in 1 liter of boiled water. After soaking for 2 hours and straining, this product will need to be poured into an already filled bath. It is recommended to perform a similar procedure immediately before bedtime, immersing yourself in a healing decoction for 15 minutes.

In concentrated form, a similar product can be used as a lotion - applied to the affected areas. In this case, it is necessary to use cotton wool and gauze swabs. Moistened and wrapped in cellophane film and a terry towel, these compresses are applied to the joint for 1.5-2 hours. After the specified procedure, the sore spot is rubbed with alcohol.

Application in cosmetology

Don’t miss the fact that chamomile flowers are often used in cosmetology. The healing properties help not only strengthen the human body, but also have a beneficial effect on the delicate skin. Thus, thanks to chamomile, you can disinfect and cleanse the pores on your face, and also achieve impressive results in the treatment of acne.

For such purposes, it is recommended to prepare the following remedy: pour a cup of boiling water over a tablespoon of dried flowers and leave the infusion in a cool, dark place for several hours. Then the resulting liquid must be filtered and proceed directly to its use, wiping problem areas of the skin with moistened swabs several times a day. We also note that adding 1 small spoon of alcohol to the specified product will create a lotion. With its help you can combat the problem of oily skin.

Chamomile in pediatrics

Since the flower has a very wide scope of application, it is actively used in the treatment of childhood diseases. Also, the above-mentioned plant has analgesic, soothing and anti-inflammatory effects. Tea infused with chamomile flowers perfectly copes with the problem of painful growth of baby teeth in children. Rubbing the eyes helps with conjunctivitis. Plants such as chamomile are widely used and have medicinal properties for children. A decoction of the herb actively helps with gastric lavage.

Chamomile tea, decoction and infusion are used in courses. Each prophylactic cycle lasts 7-10 days. After this there is a break. If necessary, the procedures are repeated in the same order. It is also not recommended to use such products on a daily basis, since the body may gradually get used to them and will no longer accept the healing properties of chamomile.

Contraindications for use

However, along with beneficial properties, the plant also has side effects. Therefore, if you are interested in chamomile, the medicinal properties and contraindications should be carefully studied. For example, the plant often causes allergic reactions in some people. Excessive consumption of infusions and teas from the above-mentioned herb provokes headaches, cough, hoarseness, depression and fatigue.

You should not be treated with chamomile if you have any mental disorders, especially with complicated schizophrenia. The sedative effect of color can negatively affect the emotional state of an unhealthy person. It is not recommended to use the plant during pregnancy. Here, certain advice can only be obtained in a doctor's office.

Finally

Agree, chamomile is a flower pleasing to the eye. Seemingly a simple plant at first glance, it contains a bit of aesthetics and considerable healing power. A bouquet stylized with this color can give others tenderness and admiration. Many people respect the medicinal properties of chamomile, and therefore actively plant these flowers in their front gardens or collect them in forest clearings.

Vitamin C;
- carotene;
- essential oil;
- tannins;
- bitterness;
- glucose;
- flavonoids;
- phytosterol;
- pectins;
- salicylic acid;
- a nicotinic acid;
- oleic, palmitic, stearic acids;
- chamazulene;
- mitricin;
- choline (vitamin B4).

Chamazulene has an anti-inflammatory effect, mitricin relieves spasms and strengthens the capillaries of blood vessels, and also has a diuretic effect, choline has a positive effect on the nervous system.

The healing properties of chamomile and their uses

Chamomile, in contrast to its brother - garden decorative chamomile, which decorates bouquets, has inconspicuous-looking petals, its diameter is no more than 2 cm. Only inflorescences are collected at the beginning of flowering, in May, when chamomile begins to bloom, and it blooms until September , bears fruit in July. Chamomile is collected in dry weather, dried in air or in a dryer.

In the pharmacy, chamomile can be found in the form of dried flowers, filter bags, ready-made tinctures (romazulan), which can be used quite widely to treat many diseases. Chamomile in the form of decoctions and infusions is prepared from dry raw materials in. It’s even easier to use a filter that is brewed like tea.

Chamomile helps well with stomach cramps and flatulence, calms the nervous system, and normalizes sleep. This medicinal plant has anti-inflammatory properties, therefore, if you pour 1-2 tablespoons into a glass of boiling water and leave for a while, then strain the infusion, you can rinse with acute respiratory infections and flu, as well as with inflammation and bleeding gums. The infusion can be used for hemorrhoids and cuts.

Chamomile is widely used in combination with other medicinal plants, this gives the best healing effect. The plant has a diuretic and choleretic effect, so preparations made from it treat hypertension, cholelithiasis, ulcers and gastritis. However, hypertensive patients who take the diuretic Furosemide should not take chamomile at the same time, as this can cause dehydration.

Chamomile is used in cosmetic preparations; it is included in lotions, creams, and shampoos. In addition to industrial production, you can also make a cosmetic product from chamomile at home; for example, you can freeze a filter bag or a bag of chamomile tea and wipe your face in the morning - this refreshes the skin well, relieves inflammation and peeling.

It is good to rinse your hair with a decoction or infusion from this plant after bathing. This product gives shine and a beautiful shade to the hair, lightens it a little. A mask of chamomile, plantain, nettle and sage helps strengthen hair and fight oiliness and dandruff.

Harm from using chamomile

The benefits of using chamomile are certainly greater than the harm. But it is necessary to take into account that there is individual intolerance to this plant. It can cause severe allergies, so before using it, you need to try what the reaction will be on a small area of ​​skin. In addition, chamomile should not be taken in large quantities at one time, or for a long time: you need to take a break.

Lyubov Ivanova

Reading time: 7 minutes

A A

Of all the variety of medicinal plants, chamomile stands out, from which healers have been making medicinal potions since time immemorial. As you guessed, the topic of conversation will be the herb chamomile and its medicinal properties and contraindications for women and children.

The flowers of the plant owe their pleasant aroma to the oil, which is used in medicine and cosmetology. Chamomile is characterized by truly invaluable beneficial properties, an extensive chemical composition with miraculous powers.

Useful and healing properties

• Flowers contain plenty of valuable essential oil, which includes montorepenes and sexviterpenoids.
• The plant is rich in flavonoids, thanks to which it has an anti-inflammatory effect on the human body and fights viruses and bacteria.
• Saturated with glycerides of fatty acids, polysaccharides, choline. Due to these natural substances, chamomile is actively used in traditional and folk medicine.
• A universal medicinal herb for internal and external use. Chamomile is a mild herbal medicine for the treatment of adults and children.
• The unique properties of chamomile have been used in the treatment of the digestive system and colds.
• Chamomile decoction reduces swelling of the gastric mucosa, enhances the secretion of bile, accelerates the healing of stomach ulcers, relieves spasms and helps with flatulence.
• The substances contained in the plant calm the nervous system, help combat insomnia and are indispensable in eliminating the negative effects of stress.

In its natural environment, chamomile grows along roads, in wheat crops and on grassy slopes. Nowadays, even farmers are engaged in its cultivation.

During the flowering period, herbalists collect baskets rich in essential oil, and the herb itself is ideal for healing baths. Chamomile is usually dried in commercial dryers or in the fresh air in a shaded place.

Contraindications for medicinal chamomile

For absolutely healthy people, when used correctly, medicinal chamomile has no contraindications. If there are certain ailments or problems, undesirable consequences may arise, which I will discuss below.

1. It is necessary to adhere to the correct dosage of teas, decoctions and preparations based on chamomile. An overdose threatens the appearance of outbursts of anger, headaches, irritability, and disturbances in the functioning of the nervous system.
2. The risk group includes people prone to chronic diarrhea or suffering from anacid gastritis.
3. You should use medicinal chamomile with caution during pregnancy. Some doctors claim that plant-based products affect a woman’s hormonal levels, while others note their ability to cause uterine tone. Traditional medicine recommends drinking chamomile infusions to relax smooth muscles. Information is conflicting, so it is better to completely avoid internal use of chamomile during pregnancy.
4. Chamomile can provoke allergies, but traditional medicine advises rinsing the sinuses with a decoction of the herb to prevent hay fever. It is better to consult a doctor before use.
5. Chamomile tea is contraindicated for people with diseases of the liver, kidneys and genitourinary system. This tea is a natural choleretic agent, which can cause complications in the diseases listed above.

Healers claim that chamomile helps with sore throat and dental diseases. In fact, it only relieves symptoms.

Use in folk medicine

I will give 6 of my own recipes for homemade chamomile medicines.

• Chamomile tea . Calms nerves and relieves insomnia. Recipe: pour a small spoon of chamomile with a glass of boiling water and wait about an hour. Use before bed.
• Carminative tea. Relieves flatulence and bloating. Recipe: I combine six parts of dried chamomile with one part of cumin and four parts of valerian root. I pour a glass of boiling water over a spoonful of the resulting mixture, wait a third of an hour and filter. Take half a glass in the morning and evening.
• Chamomile decoction. Relieves gum inflammation. Recipe: I mix St. John's wort, chamomile, calendula and horsetail in equal quantities. I take a small spoon of each ingredient and pour two glasses of boiling water. Rinse your mouth with the prepared mixture.
• Chamomile infusion. Eliminates intestinal colic and spasms. Recipe: pour 20 grams of chamomile with a glass of boiling water and wait 15 minutes. Take a spoon before meals.
• Medicinal chamomile for cystitis. I mix corn silk, St. John's wort, cornflower, chamomile and knotweed in a ratio of 1 to 1. I pour 400 ml of boiling water into a spoonful of the resulting mixture, wait exactly an hour, filter and drink after eating.
• Chamomile for weight loss. I mix strawberry leaves, birch buds, St. John's wort and chamomile, one spoon at a time and chop them. I pour three tablespoons of the prepared mixture into two glasses of boiling water and after 12 hours I take a glass twice a day. The infusion accelerates the removal of harmful substances and normalizes salt metabolism.

Video recipe for hair rinse

This is not a complete list of folk recipes for home remedies using chamomile.

Chamomile Tea Recipes

Chamomile goes well with spices, medicinal plants and fruit additives. The tea recipes that I will share allow you to make wonderful drinks that have a beautiful color and excellent aroma.

Classic chamomile tea

I pour two tablespoons of medicinal chamomile with a glass of boiling water, cover it with a saucer and wait half an hour. I strain and squeeze out the flowers.

Chamomile tea with mint

I combine crushed chamomile and chopped mint in equal quantities. For one serving, a teaspoon of ingredients is enough. I pour a glass of boiling water over the mixture of herbs, wait a little and strain. Tea has a calming effect on the body and prevents the formation of stones in the urinary system. If desired, you can add a little cumin to the drink.

Chamomile tea with lemon balm

If you change the previous recipe by replacing mint with lemon balm, you will get a medicinal drink for the stomach and nerves. This infusion will make life easier when you have a cold. I drink one glass twice a day.

Chamomile tea with herbs

I take a coffee spoon of chamomile, St. John's wort, sweet clover and mint. I mix it, pour a glass of boiling water, cover it with a saucer and wait half an hour. Then I strain it. Tea with herbs has an appetite-reducing, rejuvenating and cleansing effect on the body.

Video tips

Benefits of chamomile tea

1. All-round impact . Chamomile is rich in proteins, pectins, beneficial acids, essential oils and flavonoids. It has an astringent, anti-inflammatory, sedative, emollient, choleretic, sedative and analgesic effect on the body.
2. Nervous system . The fragrant drink contains apigenin. This natural antispasmodic fights stress, depression, irritability, and insomnia.
3. Digestive system ema. Tea accelerates the production of bile, helps with gastritis and helps restore intestinal microflora. Useful for people taking medications containing acetylsalicylic acid, as it protects the gastric mucosa from its harmful effects.
4. Diabetes . Scientific research results have shown that chamomile tea is beneficial for patients with type 2 diabetes. It is rich in substances that lower glucose levels.
5. Skin covering . If you drink chamomile tea daily, your skin will look healthy and fresh. Ice cubes made from a healing drink eliminate irritation and rejuvenate the skin. Chamomile is useful for the skin of babies, so its extract is present in toothpaste, shampoo and cream for children.
6. Fighting excess weight . Drinking chamomile tea daily can help you lose up to four kilograms every month. Chamomile improves digestion, controls appetite and helps better absorb nutrients. It calms the nerves, which is important for people who eat stress.
7. Colds . Medicinal chamomile has diaphoretic, expectorant, and analgesic properties. It will help with bronchitis, flu and other ailments of the respiratory system. They drink healing tea, gargle, do inhalations and baths.
8. Children. Chamomile tea is indispensable when a child has a stomach ache, teething or a cold. Small children are allowed to give only a weak decoction.
9. Women Health . Chamomile drinks contain the substance bisabolol, which has a positive effect on women's health. The drink helps with gynecological ailments, relieves pain during menstruation, and improves the functioning of the endocrine system. Can be used for douching and compresses.

Speaking about the dangers of chamomile tea, I note that the main thing is to use the decoction correctly. If the dosage is exceeded, a healthy person will experience nausea or drowsiness. If after drinking tea you feel worse, refuse the drink. Tea is harmful for people taking blood thinning medications.

Chamomile tea during pregnancy

Is chamomile tea safe during pregnancy? Let's take a closer look at the positive and negative aspects of tea during pregnancy.

• There are no strict prohibitions regarding the use of chamomile tea by pregnant women. However, a self-respecting doctor who understands herbal medicine will definitely warn the girl about the possible harm of tea.
• If there is no threat of miscarriage, a pregnant woman can drink tea in moderation. The daily norm is a maximum of 2 cups. You cannot infuse the drink in a thermos, as it will become extremely concentrated and strong. If in doubt, be sure to consult your doctor.
• Chamomile tea is beneficial for a pregnant woman. It allows you to effectively combat the manifestations of toxicosis, calms the nerves, improves sleep and eliminates irritability.