Long before I ever started down the “natural health” path, I drank chamomile tea. Many of us have because of its wonderful ability to calm a stomach and induce relaxed sleep. But, did you know there is more to this herb?
As early as the time of the ancient Egyptians, chamomile was used for reduction of fevers, something they considered to be the ‘ague’. The Egyptian royal women used the petals in preparations for their skin. The Anglo Saxons in the Middle Ages counted it among their nine sacred herbs. More recently, it was called the “plant’s physician” because it helps keep other plants near it more healthy and happy.
Beautiful Chamomile
Chamomile is one of the gentlest of herbs, which is why it is a perfect addition to most treatments for children. Colicky babies may benefit from a few doses during their especially irritable times because of it’s ability to expel gas from the bowels and aid in digestion. Many believe that colic is a result of digestion problems. Using chamomile to calm a young one’s nerves after a traumatic event or injury will also induce a restful sleep.
There are a myriad of uses for chamomile in the life of a woman as well. This herb will bring on menstruation and regulate its flow. It will also help to relieve some of the cramping many women experience during their cycle because it relaxes the uterine muscles. As a matter of fact, the Latin name Matricaria is often translated “uterus” – a name it received because of the many benefits to that organ of a woman’s body.
Because of its effect on a woman during menstruation, intake of chamomile during pregnancy should be carefully monitored, but not ruled out altogether. Many have taken this herb to help reduce morning sickness and ease labor pains.
I wonder if Mother Rabbit gave little Peter Rabbit his chamomile tea before bed to calm his nerves, help his digestion of all those veggie treats and help him sleep a little better after his long and naughty day!
I’m sure I didn’t think of something that chamomile is great for! Please add your two cents in the comments section below!
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I used to use Chamomile to lighten my hair