Chamomile tea. Picture: Pexels
Most have experience with chamomile in some way or form. The plant has been used in households for ages, traditionally used to help settle stomachs and nervous systems. This is because it is very safe, effective and covers a range of issues.
The relentless pursuit of wellness and healthy lifestyles, relaxation techniques, and a balanced diet creates more uses for the chamomile plant. It is commonly used in anti-ageing solutions due to being rich in antioxidants, making it an effective way to combat ageing. But what’s the science behind Chamomile’s age-defying benefits?
How to identify chamomile
Chamomile can grow up to 60cm high, it spreads very easily and quickly with daisy-like white and yellow flowers. You can easily spot the plant as chamomile grows closer to the ground, and has no real flowers. While chamomile may have some of the highest safety uses, be aware that some people can be allergic to this plant. Even if you don’t do a thing with the flowers, they still make excellent companion plants for many flowers and a home for many pollinators.
Things you can do with chamomile
There is a vast array of uses for chamomile that you may find useful on your homestead. The plant can be used in the following ways:
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Chamomile soothes the skin
When used as a tea, the chamomile plant, consisting of three natural compounds bisoprolol, chamazulene, and apigenin can help to soothe the skin. The compounds are known for calming and benefiting your skin. Because skin generally becomes thinner and more sensitive over time, these natural properties of chamomile become increasingly beneficial as you age.
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Helps reduce anxiety
Chamomile is widely recognised for its calming properties and is often used as a mild sedative to reduce anxiety. To help the nervous system return to a state of tranquillity, chamomile can be ground into a powder using a spice grinder or brewed into a warm cup of tea. It can also be combined with other calming herbs to enhance its effects. Many people enjoy drinking a cup of chamomile tea before bedtime to relax and alleviate insomnia.
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Used as an anti-ageing property
Chamomile tea also consists of powerful antioxidants such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and phytochemicals, which protect the body against free radical damage. Free radicals can cause oxidative stress, which leads to premature ageing.
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Use to reduce Inflammation
Over the years, chamomile has proven beneficial in blocking prostaglandins, which are natural substances in the body that causes inflammation. Drinking chamomile tea or using chamomile-infused oils can help reduce inflammation, leading to improved overall well-being and better skin health. Infusing chamomile into oil is an excellent alternative for using the herb in topical applications to alleviate inflammation.
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Contributes to protecting against environmental damage
The antioxidants found in chamomile herbs can protect against free radicals, and are also known to protect the skin from environmental stress such as pollution and harsh weather. This prevents dark spots and dryness that can result in premature ageing.
Written by CHUMASANDE MATIWANE
First published on Garden & Home
Also see: 5 Types of tea and their health benefits