When you think of chamomile, you likely think about the tea and nothing else. The truth is chamomile can be used in a number of ways. It can also be used for more than calming the nerves and getting a good night’s sleep. Here are a few of the ways to use chamomile for your health along with some tips on how to mix chamomile and use it properly.
Healthy Skin
Skin irritation and dryness can actually lead to a lot of pain and discomfort. If the issue is not just dry skin, but also irritation and inflammation then calming your skin may be an important first step. You can do this with chamomile. Chamomile can be used as a tea bath or a topical application with essential oil or with a chamomile infused lotion.
Though you may already know how to use and make the oils or lotion, you may not know how to use it as a tea bath. Simply use some muslin or old clean pantyhose. Anything with that type of consistency will do. Create a pouch with the material and place dried chamomile or loose leaf chamomile tea in the pouch. Close it and place it in a bath. You will need at least 4 large tea bags, think family size bags, for each warm bath. Allow your body to soak in the tea bath for at least thirty minutes. Follow with chamomile or lavender based lotion.
Reduces Cramps
Chamomile applied topically through an oil or ointment can help greatly reduce cramps, especially during menstrual cycles. You can also use the same method to help with muscle cramps and injuries from sports or intense exercise workouts. Some runners use the chamomile topical lotion or oil application following long runs, marathons, or 5k races.
Hemorrhoid Reduction
At some point in your life, though you may not want to think about, you will likely have an issue with hemorrhoids. Chamomile can be applied in lotion form to the area to help reduce the inflammation and pain. You can also use a tea bath with Epsom salt to help soften the hemorrhoid and have it release. If you choose to use a lotion form, consider using mild carrier oils such as coconut or sweet almond. Vitamin E oil as a base would also be advisable.
These are only three of the main methods you can use to harvest and store chamomile for various health issues. Though the most common method is tea, chamomile can also be used in oil diffusers to help aid as an inhalant. This is ideal for small children that may not want the take it orally or have sensory issues against anything topical.
