Chamomile : It began to be used to relieve stress and calm stomach problems
What is chamomile
Chamomile is considered one of the basic plants used in traditional medicine for thousands of years due to the many benefits of chamomile, as it began to be used to relieve stress and calm stomach problems. The uses of chamomile flower vary to include many diseases and health conditions. There are many forms of tea used today, the most famous of which is chamomile tea, which smells like apples.
Chamomile tea is prepared by adding 2 tablespoons of dry chamomile flowers or 4 tablespoons of fresh chamomile flowers to 230 ml of water immediately after boiling (you can change the amount of chamomile in relation to the water to get a thicker or lighter tea).
Stir the chamomile flowers, cover the pot, and leave the flowers to steep in the water for about five minutes (the duration can be increased or decreased to obtain a heavier or lighter tea), then strain and cool slightly before drinking it. Any unused tea can be stored for up to a week in the refrigerator.
Types of chamomile
There are many types of chamomile, including:
German chamomile.
Roman chamomile.
Russian chamomile.
Hungarian chamomile.
Czechoslovak chamomile.
Yugoslav chamomile.
Most of them have the therapeutic properties and benefits of chamomile.
Characteristics of the chamomile plant
The following are the most prominent characteristics of the chamomile plant:
The chamomile plant has a height of about sixty centimeters.
Chamomile plant is very branched and fast growing.
The stem of the chamomile plant is standing so that it bears small leaves and compound flowers.
The chamomile plant has a distinctive aromatic scent.
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Benefits of chamomile
Studies indicate the possibility of using chamomile flower or chamomile tea in the treatment of some diseases or symptoms, as the benefits of chamomile include:
Relieve stress and insomnia.
Relaxing muscles when using chamomile oil with massage, or drinking chamomile tea.
Treating lower back pain and menstrual pain.
Treating mouth ulcers caused by medicines used to treat cancer (when used as a mouthwash).
Reducing diarrhea in children.
Reducing nausea and vomiting.
Baby colic treatment.
Reducing heartburn, stomach disorders.
Preventing hemorrhoids and relieving their pain.
Reducing skin inflammation and irritation.
Diaper rash treatment.
Accelerate wound healing.
Some studies indicate that the effectiveness and benefits of chamomile are comparable to the ability of hydrocortisone creams to treat eczema.
Damage and dangers of chamomile
Although there are many benefits of chamomile, excessive use may cause some damage and side effects, and this is what requires eating it in moderate quantities. Chamomile damage includes:
Allergy, which often appears with the use of chamomile for the first or second time, and the allergy is represented by the appearance of a skin rash if it is used topically on the skin, but in the event of difficulty breathing, or swelling in the face, lips, tongue, or throat, this requires a closer visit clinic immediately. Allergies may accompany skin itching.
Chamomile may trigger allergies in people who are allergic to plants from the daisy family, so it is preferable to avoid chamomile if you have ever had allergy symptoms from plants such as: ragweed, marigolds, and chrysanthemums.
Drowsiness and vomiting if taken in large doses.
Cautions for using chamomile
In the event that you want to eat chamomile in quantities more than those found in food in order to obtain its medical benefits, the following must be taken into account:
It is preferable to consult a doctor before starting to use chamomile for long-term treatment if the person suffers from health problems, as it contains coumarin in a small amount, and thus may lead to blood thinning, especially if it is used in large doses and for a long time.
It is recommended to stop using it two weeks before surgery, as it may also interact with anesthetics.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid chamomile.
It is preferable to consult a physician before using chamomile with infants and children.
For more: the 10 most important medicinal herbs and their benefits
Chamomile interaction with medications
The interaction of chamomile with some medications may lead to side effects, so a doctor's advice should be taken before using it in quantities more than those found in food to obtain the health benefits of chamomile, especially if a person is taking certain medications such as cancer drugs or diabetes medications.
It is advised to consult a doctor before taking chamomile if you are taking other medications that may interact with it, such as:
Tranquilizers.
blood thinners
Antiplatelets.
aspirin.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen.
Supplements containing ginkgo biloba or garlic.
