10 Amazing Beauty Uses For Chamomile

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Chamomile, scientific name matricaria recutita, is a flowering plant with lovely, small yellow blossoms that belong to the daisy family. There are two main types: German Chamomile and Roman Chamomile. The annual version, Roman chamomile, grows to 24 inches tall, but the perennial version, German chamomile, grows to no more than 10 inches tall. Chamomile originated in Europe, but was brought to the Americas with the pilgrims, and even Native Americans grew accustomed to its medicinal use. It has been used for its medicinal properties on skin for many years, especially pertaining to relaxation, lowering stress and soothing an upset stomach. It is one of the gentlest herbs, even gentle enough to use on baby skin.

You can find dried chamomile in tea form at most grocery stores, but you can also purchase bulk dried chamomile or chamomile essential oil. You can use either form, though purchasing Chamomile tea will be the easiest to find and the least expensive.

Today, chamomile can be found on roadsides and even in cracks in sidewalks and gravel roads. It is plentiful, but few know how to identify this common weed.

10 Amazing Beauty Uses For Chamomile

Anti-aging benefits. Chamomile slows down the aging process because of its high antioxidant content.
Treat sunburn naturally. Chamomile will reduce the inflammation of the burn, and also aid in healing the burn faster through its antioxidant load.
Tightens pores. Chamomile tightens pores, leading to a better complexion and tighter skin overall.
Reduce dark under-eye circles. Between chamomile’s anti-inflammatory properties and high antioxidant content, it is a serious tonic for under-eye circles.
Resolve dandruff. Chamomile can remove even stubborn dandruff and cradle cap. Add chamomile water as a final rinse to your hair daily for two weeks.
Lightening hair and highlights. Chamomile can also lighten hair, especially lighter colored hair such as blonde or light brown, and further lighten highlights. Spray chamomile infusion onto hair, and let sit for at least 12 hours. Allowing the mixture to sit on the hair in the sun will further lightening.
Relaxing overstimulated nerves and nerve pain. With its anti-inflammatory properties, chamomile can relieve inflammation of the skin and nerves.
Lighten skin complexion, acne scars, and sunspots. Chamomile has been used to lighten skin for many years, apply dandelion infusion to any troublesome spots daily until lightened.
Wounds and scars. Chamomile aids in cell regeneration and limits darkening and scarring of the skin.
Treat acne. Thanks to chamomile’s antiseptic properties, it can treat active acne and breakouts without stripping the skin of oils or using harsh chemicals.

Other Health Uses For Chamomile

Chamomile is not only wonderful for skin, but is also useful for a host of health issues. Chamomile is one of the safest and most studied herbs, and deserves a place in your natural medicine cabinet. In addition to being a respiratory and digestive aid, chamomile has shown to help muscle spasms, inflammation, insomnia, ulcers, menstrual issues, and even rheumatism. Chamomile gains its healing properties from its polyphenols, flavonoids, and terpenoids.

How to Make a Chamomile Infusion

The easiest way to make a chamomile is to blend an infusion that can be used both externally and internally. To brew an infusion, place ½ cup of dried chamomile, or ¼ cup of fresh chamomile, in a quart-size mason jar. Boil one quart of water, and pour into the jar. Screw on lid, and allow to sit at room temperature in a dark place for at least 8 hours. After 8 hours, strain out chamomile and replace lid. This can be used as a facial tonic or ingested for up to one week. Refrigerate after opening.

References:

www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

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