Chamomile, derived from the flowers of the Matricaria recutita (German chamomile) or Chamaemelum nobile (Roman chamomile) plants, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is historically applied in soothing digestive and nervous system complaints. While both varieties share a similar profile of beneficial compounds, the German type is more commonly prepared for internal use due to its higher concentration of anti-inflammatory sesquiterpenes. Understanding the correct methods for preparation is essential to harness the full spectrum of the plant’s benefits.
Preparing Chamomile for Internal Consumption
The most accessible way to consume chamomile is through a hot water infusion, commonly known as tea, which efficiently extracts the beneficial volatile oils and flavonoids from the dried flower heads. To prepare a standard cup, measure one to two teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers per eight ounces of water. Using whole, dried flower heads is preferred over crushed materials found in many tea bags, as the whole flowers retain more of the active compounds.
Water temperature is important for maximizing extraction without damaging the plant’s oils. Water heated to just below boiling (200 to 212 degrees Fahrenheit) is ideal for drawing out compounds like apigenin and bisabolol. Pour the hot water over the measured flowers and cover the vessel to prevent volatile oils from escaping with the steam.
Allowing the infusion to steep for a minimum of five to seven minutes is necessary for a flavorful cup. Steeping for as long as ten minutes will yield a more potent concentration of active ingredients. Extended steeping times draw out the medicinal components, but steeping for too long can sometimes introduce a slightly bitter taste.
Topical and Aromatic Applications
Chamomile’s anti-inflammatory and soothing properties make it well-suited for external applications targeting localized irritation and discomfort. A simple way to use the herb externally is by creating a compress from a strong infusion, which can be applied directly to the skin. This compress is prepared by steeping two to three tablespoons of dried flowers in two cups of hot water for ten minutes, resulting in a highly concentrated liquid.
Soak a clean cloth or gauze in the warm liquid, gently wring out the excess moisture, and place it over the affected area, such as mild wounds, rashes, or localized swelling. The cool, diluted infusion can also be used as a simple skin wash or rinse. This provides a gentle, antiseptic action for cleansing irritated skin and promoting the healing of minor abrasions.
For aromatic use, the essential oil can be inhaled through a diffuser to promote relaxation. When applying the oil directly to the skin, it must be significantly diluted in a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil. A safe dilution ratio ranges from one to five percent, equating to about six to thirty drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil.
Beyond Tea: Standardized Extracts and Tinctures
Commercially prepared forms of chamomile offer an alternative to traditional tea, providing a more predictable concentration of active compounds. Tinctures, which are liquid extracts typically using an alcohol base, are taken orally using a dropper. Due to varying extraction methods and ratios, the recommended dosage is product-specific, often ranging from twenty to sixty drops, taken diluted in water up to three times daily.
Solid extracts, available in capsules or tablets, are often standardized to contain a specific amount of a compound like apigenin, one of the key flavonoids responsible for the plant’s effects. Standardized extracts ensure consistent delivery of the herb’s properties. Users must strictly adhere to the manufacturer’s directions for milligram intake.
Safety and Usage Guidelines
While chamomile is largely considered safe for general consumption, there are important guidelines to follow to ensure proper use. General daily intake of the tea often corresponds to two to four cups, which utilizes between two and eight grams of dried flowers. Because there is no single standard dose, it is always recommended to start with the lowest amount and observe the body’s response.
A significant consideration is the potential for allergic reaction, particularly for individuals sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family, such as ragweed, daisies, or chrysanthemums. This cross-reactivity can manifest as skin irritation from topical use or, in rare cases, a more severe systemic reaction following ingestion. Any signs of an allergic response require immediate cessation of use.
Chamomile may also interact with certain medications. It has a potential for additive effects when combined with sedatives or central nervous system depressants, potentially increasing drowsiness. The herb may also slightly increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood-thinning medications like warfarin. Individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or scheduled for surgery should consult a healthcare provider before using chamomile in medicinal quantities.