The Glory of Chamomile

When you think of chamomile, you probably think of chamomile tea, which has been used for hundreds of years as a way to relax and de-stress at the end of a long day.  But did you know that this herb and its essential oil have quite a few proven and alternative uses?  Here are just a few benefits that chamomile has been proven to possess.

Anti-inflammatory

Chamomile essential oil, among its many properties, has been shown to be anti-inflammatory.  This means that a few drops of the essential oil added to a moisturizing cream or lotion can be a great way to help relieve the itchiness and swelling that is associated with sunburn, bug bites, poison plants, or allergic reactions.  Internally, one or two drops of this essential oil added to a pot of hot tea can be a great way to reduce the painful symptoms of stomach aches, or intestinal cramping.

Anti-bacterial

Besides being anti-inflammatory, chamomile essential oil has also been shown to have anti-bacterial, anti-allergen, and sedative properties.  It has also been shown to be a mild muscle relaxant, and has shown to be a mild fever reducer as well.

How To use Camomile Essential Oil

The use of chamomile essential oil can be used externally or internally.  Adding a few drops to your favorite moisturizer, or adding a few drops to your aloe burn gel can be a great way to help soothe and reduce the swelling associated with minor skin irritations.  Also, creating a paste or cream of chamomile essential oil, water and cornstarch can be a great way to help reduce the swelling and alleviate the pain associated with hemorrhoids and other associated skin ailments.  Finally a drop or two of the essential oil can be added to a pot of tea to help relax during the end of the day.

When To Avoid Chamomile

It should be noted, however, that some people may show a strong allergic reaction to chamomile and should avoid its use, even topically in the essential oil.  If a person knows that they are allergic to any plant in its family- Compositae.  Herbs in this family include yarrow, feverfew, tansy, and artemesia and chamomile.  Also, people who suffer from hay fever or have bronchial asthma may want to avoid the use of this essential oil due to the potential for a strong allergic reaction.   Allergic reactions can range from mild skin irritation to severe anaphylactic shock.  Anaphylactic shock should always be treated as an emergency situation.

Chamomile has been called the Western answer to Asian Ginseng, and with good reason.  It has proven itself as a powerhouse of healing properties and uses, and the essential oil derived from this plant is no exception.