Chamomile, isn't just for kids

This happy little herb has a bigger story than you might think. When I put together my "Grocery Store Herbalist" class I found Chamomile's story to be far more medicinal than I had realized. Probably because, us herbalist's are used to using not the common  herbs, so may have overlooked this little beauty. It is part of the Daisy family, giving it such a happy appearance, and a sweet pleasant fragrance.
As we look a little deeper we find a bevy of health benefits that Chamomile has to offer.

Matricaria recutita also known as German chamomile, Hungarian chamomile or wild chamomile.  Related species, is Chamaemelum nobile (Roman chamomile) can be used interchangeable with Matricaria recutita, but has contradictions for pregnancy due to its emmenagogue and uterine stimulant effect.

Key Actions:

• Anti-inflammatory
• Anti-allergenic
• Antispasmodic
• relaxant
• Carminative
• Mild bitter

Traditional Uses:

Sleep: This is a mild and relaxing herb to the nervous system. The constituent spiroether has a strong antispasmodic effect on muscles, which proves beneficial for menstrual cramps and muscle tension. It also relieves irritability making it very useful in helping children fall and stay asleep.
Allergies:  Inhaling the steam from your cup of tea relieves allergy symptoms and asthma.  Using the tea as a poultice on eczema or any itchy skin area can diminish symptoms.  It has been used as an eye compress for pink eye and styes.
Digestion:  It has been taken for centuries to relieve gastritis, indigestion, bloating and colic.  It reduces the acidity in the gut. Being a mild herb it is very suitable for children and babies.

Here's my recipe I like to prepare for allergy relief and to relax muscle tension.  I made this for everyone at my grocery store herbology 101 class the other night. I have to say it really set the mood for good learning!

8 oz. spring water
3/4 tsp. Chamomile
1/4 tsp. Thyme
1/4 tsp. fresh Ginger Root
1 slice fresh Lemon
Raw Honey to taste
This is a great night cap before bed in the allergy prone months, or anytime really. Enjoy!