Calming Chamomile
Most people can easily identify Roman Chamomile with its feathery emerald green leaves, straggly stems and sprawling mass of delicate daisies. It has an earthy, sweet and fruity aroma - a bit like apples. “Chamomaela” means “ground apple” in Ancient Greek, while in Spain, the Chamomile flower is called “Manzanilla”, which translates as “little apple”. It has been used for centuries as a mild sedative and for its anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties. The Ancient Egyptians used it as a cold remedy and an embalming oil. The Romans used it to flavour drinks, as incense and as a medicinal herb. Chamomile plants are a symbol of relaxation and rest today with herbal awareness even apparent to children as it features in the well loved book by Beatrix Potter; Peter Rabbit. The wise mother gives a dose of it to Peter after his encounter with Mr Mcgregor. Perhaps to settle his stomach and encourage calm and restfulness in a scared little bunny.
When it comes to the Victorian language of flowers, the plant stands for “Energy in Adversity” named for the plants spreading habbit and use in medicine. Chamomile folklore is a bit less well known. Did you realise it is considered a lucky flower? According to Scott Cunningham in his Encyclopaedia of Magical Herbs, wearing a garland around your hair will attract a lover or carrying some in your pocket will bring general good fortune. Perhaps there is something in the trend to wear crowns of chamomile at festivals after all. It is also associated with prosperity, interestingly, as old time gamblers used to wash their hands with Chamomile tea before playing cards or throwing dice.
To this day chamomile exists to provide us with a sense of calm and peacefulness. Soothing irritation - with regards to skin and the nerves. There are studies to prove its efficacy to assist sleep, relieve anxiety and even wound healing, that support the ancient applications.
Here are a few ways we can we incorporate this wonderful herb into our lives;
In the garden
If you’re a keen gardener, you may have noticed that Chamomile is a great companion plant. It used to be known as the plant’s physician because it was believed to help sickly plants recover if placed in close proximity to Chamomile. It is also loved by garden pollinators; hoverflies, beneficial wasps, ladybirds and honeybees are all attracted to chamomile and it turns out that mosquitos hate it. Great news if you are susceptible to bites and love your garden. Plant strategically close to seating areas!
In the bath
There are two ways you may want to add Chamomile to the bath;
Mix 4-6 drops of Chamomile Essential Oil with a carrier oil, such as sweet almond or sunflower oil, and add to bath water.
Place a handful of dried Chamomile flowers in a muslin bag, tie the ends and add the bath tea while the tub is filling.
For your skin
Add 1-2 drops of essential oil to an unscented body lotion or moisturiser.
For your hair
Chamomile is a natural hair lightener and it couldn’t be easier to try. Brew a strong cup of Chamomile tea, allow it to cool and put over hair after shampooing. Effects are subtle.
For relaxation and to aid better sleep
Chamomile tea of course! The more intact the flowers are, the higher the quality of tea. Prepare in a covered vessel to prevent the steam escaping as you don’t want to loose any of the medicinal value to evaporation. This glass infuser mug from Whittards is perfect. Here’s an easy recipe;
1 tablespoon dried chamomile flowers
1 cup of water
add honey to taste.
And a bonus one…
For your lips
Why not keep some sunshine in your pocket and apply calming Chamomile to your lips throughout the day. Did you know that chamomile is a key ingredient in our lip balm?
