Chamomile: medicinal properties and contraindications

Once among the wildflowers, a man involuntarily admires their tenderness and beauty. Azure blue cornflowers, blue bells, sunny dandelions and fragile daisies - they seem completely defenseless, but in fact, huge power is hidden inside them. Every flower and every blade of grass can restore health. Chamomile stands out especially, like a graceful ballerina in a tutu, which is able to cope with many diseases. Her healing abilities are amazing, and she herself deservedly occupies one of the leading places in the ancient books of the first healers.

Chemical composition

The scientific community has recognized the benefits of this amazing plant for decades. Numerous studies have confirmed the unique ability of a flower to restore human health. And, first of all, this is due to the composition of useful substances, among which the presence of:

• vitamins A, B1, B2, B5, B9;
• zinc;
• copper;
• gland;
• manganese;
• potassium;
• magnesium
• calcium
• chlorine;
• sulfur;
• magnesium
• phosphorus;
• nicotinic, ascorbic, caprylic, salicylic, isovalerianic acid;
• quercetin;
• tannins;
• polysaccharides;
• flavonoids;
• apigenin glycoside.

These components are assembled together so that the chamomile can take care of human health and its beauty without harming the body.

How it looks and where it grows

Chamomile is the most popular and easily recognizable representative of the family Asteraceae. The area of ​​its distribution became Eurasian, American, South African and Australian countries. In the Russian Federation, it grows in Siberia, Altai, in the steppes of Transbaikalia and in the central part of the country. The flower can be seen on roadsides, field edges, vacant lots, meadows, and even in settlements near residential buildings.

The plant was known in ancient Rome, where it was associated with an apple because of its aroma, which vaguely resembles the smell of a famous fruit. The Poles were the first to call the flower by his modern name.

Chamomile has a dissected shape of leaves with small slices, green tint. Grass blooms with baskets that look like a hemisphere. In diameter, inflorescences can reach 2 cm. Tubular yellow flowers are located inside the core, and white pistillate flowers on the sides.

Chamomile has a fruit - it is a four-rib or three-rib achene.

The plant is used in medicine and cosmetology, each time bringing humanity its invaluable benefits.

Kinds

Currently, the friendly “chamomile family” has 25 plants belonging to the Astro genus. The most common are considered to be a chamomile pharmacy, green, western, rocky or golden. All these and other varieties of the flower are united by one common attribute - an empty space in the receptacle. The plants themselves are slightly different from each other:

1. Pharmacy. The most famous and recognizable.It is her inflorescences with yellow flowers in the center and white on the sides that are used for medicinal purposes.
2. Green It is distinguished by the absence of white side “petals” and a strong aroma, for which it received the second name - odorous. It is also used in medicine.
3. Western. It has only a yellow core and can reach 70 cm in height. Such a flower can be found only in the northern lands of America.
4. Rocky. Received its name in connection with its habitat, because grows on the slopes of the mountains. Her stems seem to creep on the ground. Grass is found in the mountains of Altai.
5. Golden It differs in the absence of lateral flowers, the shape of its receptacle is cone-shaped. It blooms not only in inflorescences, but also in single baskets.

The remaining species are less known, but also similar to popular varieties.

Collection and storage

In pharmacy kiosks, you can easily purchase chamomile flowers already in dry form. And you can do it yourself, especially since experienced herbalists find this activity not difficult. To properly collect the raw materials, you need to follow some rules:

1. Choose an environmentally friendly place located away from settlements and enterprises.
2. The optimal collection period is from the middle of the first summer month to the last month of summer.
3. Go to the gathering in the morning when the dew comes off, on a dry and sunny day.
4. It is better to use scissors or a knife with which to cut only flowers.
5. If necessary, collect not only inflorescences, but also herbs, you should cut a 30-centimeter stalk, counting the distance from above, and not from the root. It is also recommended to collect greens on different branches, so that the plant has the possibility of an early recovery.

The collection steps are simple and easy to follow, as are the conditions for drying the raw materials:

1. Arrange the collected inflorescences on a fabric or lattice with a thin layer and cover them with gauze from insects.
2. The drying process is best done in a dark room with good air circulation, because the sun's rays can destroy the entire beneficial composition of the plant.
3. The ideal drying temperature is from 25 to 35 ° C, if there are no such conditions, then the product is dried at room temperature.
4. The natural process takes about 2 weeks.
5. When using an electric dryer, it is necessary to maintain a temperature in the region of 40 ° C, but no more.

If it is necessary to dry the flowers along with the stems, then the plant is collected in bunches and suspended upside down in the attic.

When the raw materials are dried, they should be laid out in cardboard boxes or cloth bags. In boxes, grass can be covered with a sheet of paper, and not covered tightly. In this state, chamomile will retain all its beneficial properties for 1.5 years.

The healing properties of chamomile

Chamomile, possessing a whole "arsenal" of micro and macro elements, has a beneficial effect on human health. The plant has the following properties:

• antibacterial;
• anti-inflammatory;
• sedative;
• choleretic;
• anticonvulsant;
• antihistamine;
• antispasmodic;
• hemostatic;
• reducing flatulence;
• astringent.

Due to the spectrum of its influence on the body, the grass is considered useful for women, and for men, and for children. However, its benefit for everyone will be their own.

For women

In the days of Ancient Rome, the plant was used to treat mainly gynecological ailments, and therefore, translated from Latin, chamomile translates as a "mother flower". For this reason, she was simply created to strengthen and maintain the health of women. Grass will help with the following female diseases:

• dysmenorrhea;
• algodismenorea;
• vulvitis;
• vaginitis;
• endocervicitis;
• pyelonephritis;
• cystitis;
• thrush;
• kalpit;
• uterine bleeding;
• heavy menstruation;
• insomnia;
• swelling.

With these diagnoses, the grass helps relieve the inflammatory process and relieve pain. In this case, decoctions are used inside, because their external use, or rather douching, gives absolutely no positive effect, but it can have a negative effect.The fact is that when douching, pathogenic bacteria can penetrate the uterus and vagina, which will lead to the spread of the virus and only worsen the condition.

Outwardly, a woman can use chamomile to create cosmetic masks, balms, rinses, as well as during lactation with damaged nipples.

It is these properties of the flower that made it so useful for the health of the beautiful half of humanity.

For men

Although initially only female diseases were treated with chamomile, later they began to use it for men. The effect of a magic flower on a strong floor is as follows:

• reduction of pain with prostatitis;
• normalization of the genitourinary system;
• prevention of prostate cancer;
• reduction in seizures during physical exertion;
• infertility prevention;
• restoration of spermatogenesis;
• potency improvement;
• increased testosterone levels.

Decoctions of herbs for men are prescribed for gout, neurosis, rheumatism, infertility, respiratory diseases, erectile dysfunction.

Thus, the "female" flower can help the strong half of humanity to overcome their ailments.

During pregnancy

The fragile daisy is not as harmless as it seems. Its effect on pregnancy is quite aggressive, and therefore any means containing grass are not recommended during the period of expectation of the baby. This is due to its ability to cause uterine contractions, leading to premature birth or miscarriage. In some cases, the specialist can still prescribe a decoction of the plant to help the pregnant woman eliminate headaches, stomach cramps, flatulence, toxicosis. In these situations, the doctor prescribes treatment with chamomile, based on the patient’s condition, and calculates the dose of the drug that does not cause negative consequences.

As for the external use of plants during pregnancy, there are no prohibitions. Outdoor use of the flower will be very useful for the expectant mother. Decoctions can be used to gargle to relieve inflammation and eliminate pain. It is also recommended to rinse hair, restoring its shine and beauty, take baths with herbal decoction to calm the nervous system and relieve fatigue.

A future mother should remember that she can use herbal chamomile infusions and decoctions externally, but before taking them inside, she should consult a physician to avoid the risks of complicating pregnancy and losing the fetus.

When breastfeeding

During breastfeeding, women are extremely careful not only about food, but also about drugs and plants. However, with a camomile, you should not be afraid for the health of the baby and mother, because the grass is not dangerous during lactation and can help cope with such disorders and diagnoses:

• sleep problems and nervous strain;
• acute respiratory viral infections;
• laryngitis;
• tonsillitis;
• pharyngitis;
• wounds on the chest that occurred during feeding;
• diarrhea;
• flatulence;
• colic
• thrush;
• diseases of the genitourinary system;
• malfunctions of the menstrual cycle;
• toothache.

It should be noted that during breastfeeding it is allowed to consume no more than 2 cups of chamomile tea or decoction per day, as their excess may not increase the amount of milk, but reduce and cause allergic reactions in the child. To avoid negative consequences, it is necessary to consult an expert and not exceed the daily dose, and you should not resort to self-medication in such an important period of the baby’s development.

For kids

Not always a small child can be given what is allowed to an adult. This rule does not concern daisies. Herbal drinks are allowed for children from 6 months. They will help to cope:

• with colic;
• sleep disturbances;
• failures in the digestive tract;
• a cold
• inflammation of the upper respiratory tract;
• the effects of sunburn;
• diaper rash;
• prickly heat;
• teething pains;
• decreased immunity.

The dose of the first dose should not exceed 15 ml, then you can increase it to 30 ml. After a year, the child is recommended to take decoctions in the amount of 100 ml. You can bathe in a decoction of chamomile baby from birth and not worry about his health.

Before taking the herb, you need to keep in mind that it is not recommended in the presence of diarrhea, kidney problems, diseases of the bladder and mental illness. In addition, it is necessary to monitor the reaction of the baby, as product may cause allergies.

In other cases, the plant will be useful for the child's body, but only after the recommendations of a specialist.

When losing weight

In the process of losing weight, chamomile has established itself as an excellent adjuvant, the influence of which on this process lies in the following effects:

• digestion regulation;
• normalization of metabolism;
• removal of toxins, toxins, excess fluid and salts;
• decreased appetite by regulating sugar levels;
• removal of increased nervousness;
• rejuvenation of the skin;
• prevention of stretch marks.

In this regard, nutritionists recognize the benefits of the flower when losing weight, but warn that an overdose threatens with dehydration, decreased immunity and impaired intestinal microflora. And therefore there is only one advice: chamomile helps in combination with physical activity and in compliance with the recommended average daily rate.

Chamomile in folk medicine

Chamomile belongs to those plants whose benefits are recognized by official medicine. But the “pioneers” in its use were traditional healers. Their knowledge has reached the modern healers, who treat their patients today with the help of an amazing flower. In alternative medicine, a plant is usually prescribed for such diagnoses:

• epithelial lesions;
• disturbances in the work of the biliary tract;
• diseases of the upper respiratory tract;
• inflammatory processes of the gastrointestinal tract;
• diseases of the genitourinary system;
• inflammation of a different nature and localization;
• bronchial asthma;
• diabetes;
• eczema;
• gastritis;
• headache and toothache;
• Depression
• malfunctions of the nervous system;
• insomnia;
• sprains;
• gynecological diseases;
• infertility in men;
• decreased potency.

For the treatment of these ailments, there are a large number of recipes that were still known to ancient healers, but effective today.

With diabetes

Composition:

• chamomile flowers - 2 tsp;
• cinnamon stick - 1 pc.;
• boiling water - 200 ml.

Pour boiling water over the components and insist for half an hour, then strain. Take tea one cup a day on an empty stomach. The two ingredients of this drink will help regulate sugar levels and enhance your insulin response.

With pancreatitis

Composition:

• chamomile flowers - 1 teaspoon;
• dill - 1 teaspoon;
• immortelle flowers - 1 teaspoon;
• boiling water - 500 ml.

Combine the components, boil in a water bath for half an hour, then allow the drink to cool and filter it. Use a decoction of ¼ cup each time after a meal. The tool has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

With gastritis

This recipe aims to create a protective film on the gastric mucosa, inflamed during gastritis.

Composition:

• chamomile flowers - 1 teaspoon;
• water - 200 ml.

Add water to the chamomile and put on the stove. After boiling, grind the product over low heat for 7-10 minutes. Allow to cool and filter. The resulting glass of drink is divided into 3 parts and drink them during the day.

For the intestines

Composition:

• chamomile flowers - 120 g;
• St. John's wort - 120 g;
• birch buds - 120 g;
• immortelle grass - 120 g;
• boiling water - 2 glasses;
• honey - ½ teaspoon.

Mix all dry herbs and take 1 teaspoon of the collection, which pour boiling water. Remove the product in heat for 2 hours, then strain it with gauze. Before use, add honey. Such a drug is used in a warm form at night. It eliminates pain, bloating and normalizes bowel function.

For constipation

An enema from chamomile will help to overcome constipation and remove pathogenic bacteria, which will quickly and effectively eliminate an unpleasant ailment without causing a negative effect. This method is also suitable for allergenic patients. But often you can’t use the method, because along with the "unnecessary" you can get rid of beneficial bacteria.

Composition:

• chamomile flowers - 3-4 tbsp. spoons.
• boiling water;
• water.

Boil dry inflorescences with boiling water and stand for half an hour. After that, filter the product and add 500 ml of warm water. The required temperature for the enema should be between 35 and 38 ° C. The procedure is carried out before bedtime, holding an enema for about 10 minutes.

With diarrhea

Chamomile infusion with diarrhea will help eliminate pathogens and maintain water balance.

Components:

• chamomile - 2 tbsp. spoons;
• boiling water - 800 ml.

Put grass in a thermos and add boiling water there. Let it brew for 60 minutes. The drug is consumed every 2 hours during the day. As a rule, improvements come after the first dose. If there are no improvements on the second day, then a specialist consultation is necessary.

With gout

To reduce pain and joint sensitivity, it is recommended to use a compress of chamomile with elderberry.

Composition:

• chamomile - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• elderberry - 1 tbsp. the spoon.
• boiling water - 200 ml.

Combine the ingredients and boil for 5 minutes. Next, let the broth brew for 30 minutes, and then strain it through a gauze layer. After that, take a bandage and moisten in a decoction, attach to a sore spot and wrap with cling film. It is best to perform the procedure before bedtime. The duration of such treatment should not exceed 14 days.

With colitis

The following folk remedy based on chamomile and honey will help improve the condition with colitis.

Composition:

• chamomile flowers - 3 tbsp. spoons;
• honey - 80 g;
• boiling water - 800 ml.

Combine the grass with boiling water and wrap it with a warm cloth. Allow the drug to infuse for 120 minutes. After the lapse of time, strain the infusion and add honey to it. Use the drug no more than 4 times a day for 250 ml. The duration of the course is 45 days. You can resume treatment after a 14-day break.

For the liver

Those who want to cleanse the liver should use a recipe for herbal decoction with chamomile and other herbs.

Composition:

• chamomile flowers - 2 tbsp. spoons;
• St. John's wort - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• chopped birch leaf - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• water - 500 ml.

Combine the components and bring to a boil. Next, insist 10 minutes and strain. Broth drink 1 tbsp. spoon three times a day before meals.

With hemorrhoids

Chamomile with such a delicate problem as hemorrhoids, has wound healing, antipruritic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects. To combat the disease, it is recommended to use this recipe:

Composition:

• chamomile flowers - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• boiling water - 200 ml.

Combine the components and insist 60 minutes, covering the vessel with a lid, then strain. Such a tool to drink 1 glass 20 minutes before a meal or do 20-minute lotions twice a day.

With cholecystitis

Herbal collection will help cope with cholecystitis and its symptoms.

Composition:

• chamomile flowers - 2 tbsp. spoons;
• kidney tea - 2 tbsp. spoons;
• peppermint - 2 tbsp. spoons;
• hops - 2 tbsp. spoons;
• boiling water - 1 l.

Mix all the ingredients and take 3 tbsp. tablespoons of the resulting mixture. Then pour the raw materials with boiling water and put on low heat, where it should be cooked for 25 minutes. Then extinguish the flame and let it brew for a quarter of an hour. Drink a decoction 1 time per day in 1 glass before the first meal.

With cystitis

The oldest medicine for the fight against cystitis is considered to be chamomile. Baths with it have an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory effect. An internal intake will help relieve pain, relax the muscles of the bladder and have a diuretic and choleretic effect. The recipe for a popular remedy is simple:

Ingredients:

• chamomile flowers - 30 g;
• peppermint - 20 g;
• poplar buds - 20 g;
• boiling water - 200 ml.

Dry components mix and take 1 tbsp. tablespoons of the mixture, then combine it with boiling water and let it brew for 4 hours.Means to use in full during the day.

Against cough

The cough is excellent in treating with chamomile. The plant helps to stop coughing attacks, relieve inflammation of the mucous membranes, improve sputum discharge and eliminate swelling. There are a lot of recipes for this disease. Below is the most common.

Composition:

• chamomile flowers - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• coltsfoot flowers - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• boiling water - 500 ml.

Pour boiling water over herbs and leave for 30–40 minutes. In this case, the lid of the dishes must be kept closed. Next filter. The drug should be taken three times a day, but adults should drink 70 ml, and 1 tbsp will be enough for children. spoons.

With a cold

Colds can be defeated with the help of the same chamomile, which has an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antispasmodic effect. In addition, the grass enhances immunity and helps to cope with the disease faster. The recipe for a cold is simple.

Composition:

• chamomile flowers - 2 tbsp. spoons;
• honey - 1 tsp;
• lemon - 1 slice;
• boiling water - 400 ml.

Pour chamomile with boiling water and let stand for 30 minutes. Filter, add honey and lemon. Take tea is recommended three times a day.

With angina

Angina is a serious disease. For its treatment, you can also use a unique plant that helps to destroy pathogenic bacteria, eliminate pain, relieve swelling and irritation. Rinses are recognized as the most effective treatment. When preparing the composition for the procedure, you will need:

• chamomile - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• boiling water - 200 ml.

Combine the components and insist the agent for a quarter of an hour, then strain. Infusion gargle every 3 hours. It should be remembered that after the procedure for half an hour it is not recommended to eat and drink.

With prostatitis

The beneficial properties of chamomile help men in the fight against prostatitis. They relieve pain, inflammation, destroy bacteria, cleanse the body of harmful substances and saturate it with vitamins. To prepare a healing potion, you need to stock up on the following ingredients:

• chamomile - 25 g;
• elderberry - 25 g;
• boiling water - 0.9 l.

Combine the components and boil for 10 minutes. Then cool and strain. Take the drug 3 times a day, 150 ml after meals.

With thrush

Thrush is one of the most common female diseases. To eliminate inflammation and relieve unpleasant symptoms of the disease, a cream with chamomile will help.

Composition:

• decoction of dry chamomile - 50 ml;
• fresh butter - 50 g;
• vegetable oil - 3 tbsp. spoons;
• chicken yolk - 2 pcs.;
• glycerin - 1 tsp;
• honey - 2 tbsp. spoons.

Grind two types of oil with each other and melt using a water bath. Then add the remaining ingredients to the oil mixture and mix thoroughly. Transfer cream to glassware and store in the refrigerator. Shelf life can reach six months.

With this tool, lubricate clean genitals 5 times a day. With the disappearance of symptoms, the number of applications is recommended to be reduced.

With a cold

Runny nose is the most common symptom of almost any viral disease. Children are especially prone to it. Curing it by removing inflammation and swelling will help instill a nose with infusion of chamomile.

Composition:

• pharmacy chamomile - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• boiling water - 1 cup.

Add boiling water to the grass and insist the drug for 30 minutes, then filter. This tool is instilled 2-3 drops in each nasal passage 3 times a day.

With conjunctivitis

A useful herb is very often prescribed by doctors to treat inflammation of the outer membranes of the eyes or conjunctivitis. It helps to eliminate pain, relieve inflammation and redness, as well as get rid of purulent fluid. For the compress you will need:

• chamomile - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• boiling water - 1 cup.

Combine the components and allow the product to simmer in a water bath for 15 minutes, then cool for half an hour and strain with gauze. Before putting a compress, cleanse the eyes of purulent secretions with a cotton swab dipped in a solution of furatsilina.Next, moisten cotton pads in chamomile infusion and apply to eyes for 20 minutes.

For allergies

Allergic reactions are not uncommon in the modern world. Chamomile can reduce itching, stop the spread of rashes and reduce symptoms. Means from such a plant are applied externally and are quite simple.

Composition:

• chamomile - 4 tbsp. the spoon;
• boiling water.

Pour boiling water over the plant in dry form to make gruel. After that, transfer the mass to a clean bandage and apply to the damaged skin for 30 minutes.

In case of poisoning

Poor quality foods often cause poisoning. To cope with the symptoms, this recipe will help:

• 1 teaspoon of chamomile;
• 1 teaspoon of crushed plantain leaf;
• 1 teaspoon hypericum;
• 1 teaspoon of repeshka;
• 1 tsp mint;
• 0.5 l of boiling water.

Mix the ingredients together. Next, take 2 tbsp. collection spoons and pour them with boiling water, then insist 30 minutes. Infusion take 0.5 cups 4-6 times a day.

With stomatitis

Chamomile rinse will help reduce swelling of the mucous membrane, eliminate pain and inhibit inflammatory processes, heal wounds in the oral cavity and neutralize allergic reactions with stomatitis. To prepare a healing solution, you need such components:

• chamomile - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• boiling water - 1 cup.

Pour the prepared raw materials with boiling water and insist the composition for 20 minutes, then filter with a thick layer of gauze. Use the tool to rinse your mouth every 2 hours, while repeating the procedure after each meal.

With sinusitis

Of course, such a serious and dangerous disease as sinusitis cannot be cured with chamomile, but it is possible to use it as an auxiliary therapy. It will relieve swelling, eliminate inflammation, and help destroy harmful bacteria. To do this, you will need:

• chamomile - 2 tbsp. spoons;
• St. John's wort - 2 tbsp. spoons;
• sage - 2 tbsp. spoons;
• lavender - 2 tbsp. spoons;
• eucalyptus - 2 tbsp. spoons;
• yarrow - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• series - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• boiling water - 2 l.

Mix all dry ingredients and take 3 tbsp. spoons of the resulting collection. Then pour boiling water over them and leave for 60 minutes, then filter. The drug should be taken 6 times a day in 100 ml.

With menopause

The period of menopause can cause a woman a lot of problems. All the same miraculous grass will come to the rescue. The plant will help calm the nerves, normalize pressure, cope with sleep disturbances, increase the tone of the uterus muscles and saturate the body with vitamins. The recipe for herbal infusion is simple:

• chamomile - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• mint - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• Valerian root - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• oregano - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• boiling water - 1 l.

Mix herbs and take 3 tbsp. tablespoons of the mixture. Transfer it to a thermos and pour boiling water. Insist remedy for about 30 minutes. During the first month, take the infusion 4 times a day, 250 ml. Next, reduce the dose to 1 tbsp. spoons.

With insomnia

A camomile will help normalize sleep and calm the nervous system, relieve tension and relax.

Tea Composition:

• chamomile flowers - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• honey - 1 tsp;
• boiling water - 200 ml.

Combine the components and insist 20 minutes, covering the bowl with a lid, then strain and add honey. You can take the drug 2 times a day.

With psoriasis

The magic flower is considered a good prophylactic with a diagnosis of psoriasis. Chamomile helps relieve inflammation, reduce flaking and itching. It is taken in the form of infusions, decoctions, lotions and compresses.

Recipe:

• chamomile - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• boiling water - 250 ml.

Combine the components and insist 15 minutes, then strain. Take a drink three times a day.

With herpes

Chamomile is a natural antiseptic that helps stop inflammation, relieve itching and burning, which contributes to the rapid healing of wounds. It is better to use the plant inside to increase immunity and cope with the virus. For these purposes, an ordinary herbal tea is suitable:

• chamomile flowers - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• honey - 1 tsp;
• boiling water - 250 ml.

Combine the components and insist for 15 minutes in a sealed container, then strain and add a spoonful of honey.Take the product 2 times a day, and with an infusion without adding a sweet treat, wipe the damaged area of ​​the skin for faster healing.

Types of healing compounds with chamomile

To be healed with the help of herbs, both healers and doctors recommend preparing infusions, decoctions, teas and ointments based on them. These tools are easy to manufacture and use. You can make them yourself, without resorting to the help of specialists, and use them in order to prevent or combat ailments.

Infusion

The infusion, prepared on the basis of chamomile flowers, is an extremely useful product. It has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, antipyretic and other properties that are inherent in the plant as a whole.

Such a product can be prepared in two ways: cold and hot.

1. For external use, it is the cold infusion that is suitable. For its preparation, chamomile in the amount of 10 teaspoons must be combined with 400 ml of cold water and defended for 10 hours. After this, strain and apply as directed.
2. Hot infusion is prepared as follows: to 1 tbsp. add 200 ml of boiling water to a spoon of grass and insist for half an hour. Then filter. As a rule, experts advise taking this remedy before meals.

Tincture

Tincture is made with the addition of alcohol-containing components. Its effect is more effective, but it is because of alcohol that the drug does not suit everyone. For example, its use is not recommended for children. In permitted cases, tincture is taken to get rid of diseases of the liver, kidneys, flatulence, intestinal disorders, headache and toothache, depression and colds. The composition includes:

• 100 g of chamomile;
• 250 ml of vodka.

Combine the components in a glass dish and remove for a week in a warm place, inaccessible to sunlight, occasionally shaking. After a week, strain the tincture and pour into a bottle, while adding alcohol to get the initial volume of the drug. Then hide again in the dark for a week, and after this period, filter a second time.

Store in the refrigerator, consume, diluting in water (250 ml), not more than 15 drops 3 times a day.

Decoction

A decoction is recommended in the same cases as the infusion. Use it both internally and externally. It can be used for medical and cosmetic purposes (for rinsing hair, eliminating acne, reducing skin inflammation). To prepare it, the following components are necessary:

• chamomile flowers - 4 tbsp. spoons;
• boiling water - 500 ml.

Combine the components and allow the product to simmer in a water bath for 15 minutes, then cool for half an hour and strain with gauze.

Tea

A delicious drink, the benefits of which can hardly be overestimated, is used for all diseases subject to chamomile. It is especially effective for nervous stress and weakened immunity. Tea is prepared using not only one herb, but also adding other plants and products to it: mint, melissa, cardamom, cinnamon, honey, lemon. Nutritionists do not recommend drinking more than 2-3 cups of tea per day, so as not to cause complications in the body in the form of allergies, diarrhea, nausea.

Making a drink is easy. It will be required:

• chamomile flowers - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• boiling water - 250 ml.

Combine the components and insist for 15 minutes in a sealed container, then strain. Before use, you can add honey, lemon, and in the process of brewing - cinnamon.

Ointment

The ointment, which contains chamomile, perfectly copes with various skin diseases, relieving inflammation and smoothing the skin. It is quite possible to prepare such a tool yourself.

Composition:

• a decoction of chamomile flowers - 50 ml;
• butter, fat content up to 65% - 50 g;
• vegetable oil - 3 tbsp. spoons;
• chicken yolk - 2 pcs.;
• glycerin - 1 tsp;
• honey - 2 tbsp. spoons;
• camphor alcohol - 30 ml.

Mix two types of oil with each other and melt in a water bath. Then add the remaining ingredients to the mixture and mix thoroughly. Transfer the resulting product to glassware and store in the refrigerator. You can use the ointment for six months.

Another product that can be obtained from chamomile is oil. It has a brownish, blue or greenish color.The product is quite thick with a sweet-spicy smell.

In the production, the method of distillation of fresh inflorescences and water-steam treatment are used, which allows preserving almost the entire vitamin-mineral complex. It contains the following components:

• vitamins A, B1, B2, B4, D;
• ascorbic acid;
• flavonoids;
• organic acids;
• bitterness;
• blue oil;
• fatty acid;
• coumarins;
• glycosides;
• phytosterol;
• triterpene alcohol.

Such a content of useful substances will endow the oil with such properties:

• antibacterial;
• disinfectant;
• sweatshops;
• choleretic;
• antidepressant;
• regenerative;
• disinfectant;
• carminative;
• antispasmodic;
• soothing;
• anti-inflammatory;
• stimulating the brain;
• antipyretic.

Based on this, its effect extends to the treatment of the following diseases:

• menopause;
• female recurrent pain;
• jaundice;
• disturbances in the liver;
• vomiting
• eczema;
• burn;
• psoriasis;
• various types of skin inflammations;
• flatulence;
• indigestion;
• an ulcer in the gastrointestinal tract;
• diseases of the genitourinary system and kidneys;
• anemia;
• otitis;
• gingivitis;
• periodontal disease;
• stomatitis;
• migraine;
• neuralgia.

Oil is used for inhalation, rinses, compresses, as drops in the nose. It is also taken orally, mixed with honey or lemon juice, used in aromatherapy, inhaling healing fumes, and in cosmetology to cope with skin and hair problems by eliminating dandruff, cross-section, sagging and uneven skin.

However, do not forget that the product is not recommended for use during pregnancy, taking other homeopathic remedies and individual intolerance. The rest of the oil has established itself as an amazing tool that can preserve health.

Application in cosmetology

Cosmetic companies engaged in the production of face, body and hair skin care products highly value the beneficial qualities of chamomile in preserving youth and beauty. They add the plant to shampoos, masks, conditioners, conditioners, tonics, creams and other drugs. The ability of a flower, based on useful micro and macro elements of the composition of the plant, in this area comes down to the following effects:

• aseptic;
• cleansing;
• tonic;
• anti-inflammatory;
• healing;
• anti-aging;
• reducing swelling;
• eliminating acne, acne and other types of skin rashes;
• firming hair;
• antiseborrheic.

In addition, chamomile is considered a natural "dye", because able to give the hair a shade of golden color. It was these abilities that became the fundamental factor for the use of grass, or rather its inflorescences, when creating cosmetic products.

Unfortunately, to pamper your skin with truly effective and high-quality products, you need to spend a considerable amount of money. Therefore, the recipes of home preparations for skin and hair, which were used by ancient beauties, are popular and in demand in our time.

Anti-aging ice

Composition:

• chamomile flowers - 1 teaspoon;
• linden blossom - 1 teaspoon;
• sage - 1 teaspoon;
• boiling water - 1 cup.

Dry components mix with each other and take 2 tbsp. tablespoons of the resulting herbal mixture. Then pour raw materials with boiling water and insist for 30 minutes. After this, filter the composition and pour into special molds for ice. Put in the freezer. Use cubes twice a day.

Anti-wrinkle around the eyes

Composition:

• pistachio oil - 1 tbsp. the spoon;
• sandalwood oil - 1 drop;
• rose oil - 1 drop;
• chamomile oil - 1 drop.

Mix the oils. Next, take a tissue napkin and soak it in the resulting mixture, then attach to the skin around the eyes and hold for 30 minutes. Repeat procedures no more than 2 times a day. The visible effect occurs after the 5th application.

For oily skin

Composition:

• inflorescences of chamomile - 1 teaspoon;
• linden blossom - 1 teaspoon;
• elderberry inflorescences - 1 teaspoon;
• honey - 0.5 tsp;
• boiling water - 200 ml.

Pour plant components with boiling water and boil on low flame for 10 minutes. Next, filter the broth and cool.Grind oatmeal to a powdery state. Combine the broth with oat powder and honey. The consistency of the product should be mushy. Apply the mask on the face with a dense layer for a quarter of an hour, and then wash with warm water, and then repeat the washing procedure, but with cool water.

Rinse aid

Composition:

• chamomile flowers - 4 tbsp. spoons;
• boiling water - 1500 ml.

Combine the components and boil for 5 minutes, then strain. Rinse hair after each shampoo.

Chamomile compress for deep cleansing

Composition:

• dry inflorescences of chamomile pharmacy - 15 g;
• water - 45 g;
• bergamot oil - a few drops.

Pour chamomile with water and put on a slow fire. Boil for 30 minutes, then strain with a thick layer of gauze. Next, add the essential oil to the hot composition. After that, in a decoction, the temperature of which at the time of the start of the procedure should be 55 or 60 ° C, dip a piece of thin tissue and attach it to the face for 10 minutes. After its completion, in addition to the face mask, apply your favorite mask or the usual cream that nourishes the skin well.

This procedure perfectly cleanses the deep layers of the epidermis, relieves swelling and removes harmful substances.

Against acne

Composition:

• chamomile flowers - 6 g;
• calendula flowers - 4 g;
• blue clay - 8 g;
• plantain broth;
• grapefruit water for washing.

Mix dry plant components with each other and grind with a mortar or coffee grinder. Next, add clay to the resulting collection. After this, mix the composition again and attach to it a decoction of plantain, so that the product acquires sufficient viscosity.

Before starting the process, cosmetologists advise to cleanse the face with micellar water. After cleansing, apply the resulting clay-camomile mask to the skin, spreading it evenly with a cosmetic spatula. Hold the product on your face for 8 minutes, then wash with fruit water from grapefruit.

Can dogs and cats be given chamomile

Four-legged friends often try to join the table of their masters. Sometimes this can lead to negative consequences, but not in the case of chamomile.

Veterinarians claim that the plant is useful not only for people, but also for their pets. Grass can be used for the following diseases in cats and dogs:

• intestinal cramps;
• gastritis is chronic or in the acute phase;
• inflammation of the large and small intestines;
• bloating;
• liver disease
• bladder disease;
• pathology of the gallbladder;
• impaired kidney function;
• increased irritability;
• hysteria;
• neurosis;
• cramps
• wounds;
• burns;
• abscesses.

These diseases are well treated with chamomile infusions and decoctions, which are prepared at the rate of 1 part of the raw material per 10 ml of liquid. The daily dose for pets is calculated based on the breed and weight. The daily rate of inflorescences of the plant for dogs should not be more than 2 g, and for cats - above 1 g.

Also, the flower is used for inhalation and external use to stop inflammation in damaged areas of the body and accelerate the healing process.

Contraindications

Chamomile is a unique plant. Its benefit was appreciated by Pliny the Elder, who described this herb in his writings as a component in antidotes to snakebites, Avicenna, who used it to make teas that give strength and restore the body. But, despite its ability to have a beneficial effect on human health, the use of chamomile can be accompanied by unpleasant consequences:

• nausea
• vomiting
• pain in the epigastric region;
• high blood pressure;
• the occurrence of internal bleeding;
• an allergic reaction;
• itching
• swelling;
• local hyperemia.

Such side effects are possible in case of abuse of herbal preparations.

In addition, the flower has contraindications:

• pregnancy;
• individual intolerance;
• children's age up to 6 months;
• the use of medications incompatible with the intake of chamomile products;
• chronic diseases.

In these situations, consultation with a specialist is necessary, which, based on data on the patient’s health, will be able to assess all the risks of complications associated with taking the plant and preparations containing it.

So, chamomile is an amazing flower, mesmerizing with its tenderness and fragility, but impressive with its healing power and power. This is an ancient plant that can heal people, has survived to this day and has not lost its unique abilities. This herb is able to heal many ailments and preserve beauty. Therefore, even in the absence of direct evidence, sometimes it is still worth drinking a cup of chamomile tea in order not only to feel the taste, but also to feel all the benefits of nature.

Chamomile photo