What is the chamomile plant

Chamomile, also known as anthemis and mayweed, is an annual herbaceous plant whose stem reaches a height of 50–80 cm. It grows throughout Italy from the coast to the submontane zone, and is common in meadows, cultivated fields, along roadsides and near houses. Where it grows in abundance, the air is filled with its characteristic, aromatic scent. The flowering heads are cut at the beginning of the flowering season in May–June.

It is an herb with a well-established medicinal tradition, especially in Europe, beneficial for "all states of tension and any consequent visceral symptoms, such as nervous dyspepsia and irritable bowel, tension headache and insomnia; particularly useful for all childhood complaints, calming but not depressant…"

Properties and benefits of chamomile

Chamomile is used to ease uterine pain and spasms as well as those of the digestive tract. Good results are also obtained through external application on reddened, inflamed and congested skin and mucous membranes. It is excellent in rinses for toothache, in gargles for sore throats, and as compresses for irritated, tired eyes. Chamomile flowers lose their efficacy if not used within a year of harvesting.

External use of chamomile

For inflammation of the skin and the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat, an infusion can be prepared using 10 g of chamomile in 100 ml of water. This infusion can be used for rinses or baths. For inflammation, compresses soaked in the infusion can be applied to the affected areas for at least 15 minutes.

Chamomile for newborns

Chamomile can be used as a natural remedy for colic in newborns. There are chamomile-based oils combined with other medicinal plants that can enhance the effectiveness of massages performed to relieve the baby's pain. In any case, it is always good practice to consult your paediatrician.

More controversial, however, is the use of "digestive" herbal teas containing chamomile, which should only be administered on medical advice, and in any case without sugar or other sweeteners and in limited quantities, to avoid any interference with breastfeeding.

Chamomile for red eyes and dark circles

A classic grandmother's remedy for dark circles involves placing two chamomile (or tea) bags over closed eyes and lying down for at least 10 minutes. The temperature should be cool, so the bags should be soaked in cold water and then placed directly on the eyes. For children or after sun exposure, it is better to use chamomile bags, which are excellent for those who rub their eyes too frequently. Chamomile flower water and an eye contour mask can also be used to care for the eyes.

Internal use of chamomile

Chamomile for sleep

According to the National Institutes of Health, chamomile, as our grandmothers have always told us, is truly an effective remedy for treating insomnia and inducing calm. Widely regarded as a mild tranquilliser, the most recent studies have confirmed its calming effect. It is best left to infuse for around 10 minutes with a lid covering the cup. It is no coincidence that chamomile is one of the seven foods that promote sleep.

Read also: Chamomile essential oil: properties and uses

Cosmetic use of chamomile

Hydrolat of chamomile for delicate skin

The aromatic water obtained from chamomile flowers is ideal for those with rosacea. It is soothing for puffy, tired eyes. Being very gentle, it is also suitable for children in cases of skin redness.

It is also a base ingredient for preparing purifying compresses for delicate skin, such as the following: to two tablespoons of green clay, add one tablespoon of chamomile hydrolat; then mix in one teaspoon of extra-virgin olive oil. Blend everything together and apply to the skin of the face, leaving it on for around ten minutes. Finally, rinse off with lukewarm water. This type of mask is also suitable for caring for weakened hair.

Lightening hair with chamomile

To lighten hair, prepare an infusion by mixing 20 g of chamomile in 100 ml of water. This infusion should then be applied to the hair after shampooing for 5–10 minutes, exposing the hair to sunlight if possible. It also acts as a decongestant and soothing agent.

A good chamomile oil for cosmetic use, as a sedative for skin redness and inflammation, can be obtained by macerating 20 g of crushed flowers in 100 g of seed oil in a bain-marie for two hours and then straining it.