How can you recognise chamomile?
The plant is native to the Atlantic regions of Europe and to North Africa. You may have walked past it without realising! How can you recognise it next time? Chamomile is a plant that grows to between 10 and 30 cm tall. It has very fine, small green leaves and solitary flowers with yellow centres and white petals, resembling daisies. It flowers between July and September.
It’s also at this time of year that you can enjoy the lovely fragrance of its flowers. Beyond its beauty in a bouquet and its delightful aromas (sweet and fruity, with notes of pineapple), chamomile has plenty to offer as an infusion.
The main health benefits of chamomile
Chamomile offers a wealth of health benefits, with a host of effects that are both gentle and powerful. It is particularly known for its soothing properties, making it a valuable ally against stress and anxiety. Its ability to promote restorative sleep makes it a natural option for anyone looking to improve the quality of their nights. Chamomile can also soothe the stomach, relieving indigestion and gastrointestinal pain while aiding digestion.
Its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties are particularly beneficial for women, reducing menstrual pain. Skin benefits too: compounds in chamomile soothe irritation, promote healing and protect the skin through their powerful antioxidant action. Together, these properties help strengthen the immune system, creating a protective barrier against common pathogens, including those that cause colds. This gift from nature is a valuable way to preserve and improve our overall health.
Discover our new herbal infusion with chamomile, lemon thyme and orange leaves
1. Chamomile and relaxation: a natural antidote to stress and anxiety
Chamomile has long been recognised as a source of serenity and an invaluable ally in reducing stress and anxiety. With its delicate flowers and soothing fragrance, this gentle medicinal plant contains natural compounds that encourage relaxation and calm. Its relaxing properties help soothe the mind and make it easier to stay calm amid the ups and downs of everyday life. As an infusion, it becomes a comforting drink, perfect for a restorative moment to yourself.
2. The role of chamomile in improving sleep quality
Chamomile, known for its natural sedative effects, is a true gift from nature for anyone seeking better-quality sleep. Its soothing effect makes it easier to fall asleep and promotes restful sleep, essential for optimal health. As part of a bedtime ritual, a cup of chamomile infusion helps reduce insomnia, offering well-deserved rest after a long day. Active compounds such as apigenin bind to receptors in the brain that promote drowsiness and shorten the time it takes to fall asleep. Studies suggest that drinking chamomile regularly significantly improves overall sleep quality, making it a must for anyone dreaming of peaceful nights. So say hello to long, restorative nights!
3. Chamomile as a digestive ally: relieving stomach upsets and more
Known for its soothing properties, chamomile is a true ally for the digestive system. It acts as a natural balm for stomach aches, helping digestion and reducing uncomfortable bloating. Its antispasmodic properties also offer relief from intestinal cramps. What’s more, chamomile can effectively complement treatments for gastrointestinal inflammation thanks to its natural anti-inflammatory effect. Some studies appear to suggest that chamomile supports healthy digestion. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, it could also help protect you against minor digestive complaints. A cooled chamomile infusion may also help combat mouth infections and toothache. Goodbye, mouth ulcers! What’s more, chamomile infusion may soothe bloating and stomach aches. With chamomile herbal tea, you can say goodbye to your stomach rumbling in public. A cup of chamomile infusion after a meal is more than a relaxing ritual: it’s also a way to help prevent and relieve everyday digestive discomfort.
4. Chamomile and relief from menstrual pain
Chamomile has long been a valuable ally for women dealing with menstrual pain. Thanks to its antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, this remarkable plant soothes cramps and reduces inflammation, bringing welcome natural relief. Drinking a warm chamomile infusion may also help to relax the uterus and the whole body, helping to noticeably reduce pain and discomfort during what can be a difficult time.
5. Chamomile’s anti-inflammatory effect on the skin and mucous membranes
Chamomile is known for its soothing properties, but did you know it also has exceptional anti-inflammatory properties for the skin and mucous membranes? Used for thousands of years, this medicinal plant contains valuable flavonoids and essential oils that can reduce irritation and inflammation. Applied topically as a cream or lotion, it soothes the skin, treats redness and speeds up the healing of minor wounds. Gargling with chamomile infusion also soothes the lining of the throat, offering a natural remedy for coughs or sore throats. Add its restorative effect on sensitive skin, and you have an indispensable ally for beauty and wellbeing.
6. Chamomile’s antioxidant properties and the prevention of ageing
Chamomile is rich in powerful antioxidants that play a key role in preventing premature ageing. These molecules effectively combat the free radicals responsible for cell damage, offering our skin a protective shield. You’ll also find chamomile in many beauty products: in shampoos to lighten blonde hair, as well as in face creams, masks and lotions. For the face, chamomile could improve skin quality and reduce redness and blemishes. It could even out the complexion for a more radiant look. An added bonus: chamomile may help reduce puffiness under the eyes! You can use your chamomile infusion to prepare compresses to apply to your eyes for around twenty minutes. These beneficial effects on the skin can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve firmness and elasticity, preserving a more youthful, vibrant look. Make chamomile part of your wellbeing routine and watch your skin feel renewed, all while enjoying a moment of peace and relaxation.
7. Chamomile’s effect on the immune system and fighting colds
What if a simple floral remedy could help you boost your immune system? Known for its many benefits, chamomile plays a key role in stimulating the body’s natural defences. Drinking chamomile as an infusion can help the body better defend itself against infections such as colds. Flavonoids, potent compounds found in chamomile, have antiviral properties and can provide valuable support during the colder months. It’s a gentle, natural way to strengthen your immune defences while enjoying a soothing drink.
How do you brew chamomile?
To prepare a chamomile flower infusion, follow these simple steps:
1. Put one tablespoon of loose dried flowers into a tea infuser.
2. Bring 225 ml of water to the boil in a kettle, then turn it off.
3. Pour the hot water into a cup or another container.
4. Add the chamomile-filled tea infuser and leave to steep for 5 minutes.
5. Enjoy it plain or add honey, sugar, milk, fruit or lemon. Honey also lends the infusion its antimicrobial, antibacterial and antifungal properties.
If you’re looking for chamomile that’s ready to infuse, discover our herbal infusions and our rooibos.
And for those who enjoy theine, we have a wide selection of black tea, green tea, maté and matcha.
How many times a day can you drink chamomile?
Drinking chamomile can be a real elixir for calming the mind and improving digestion, but finding the right balance is essential. One or two cups of chamomile infusion a day may be enough to enjoy its benefits without consuming too much.
It is advisable to drink the infusion at the end of the day or before bed to enjoy its relaxing effects and encourage restorative sleep. However, take care not to exceed four cups a day, as drinking too much can have unwanted effects.
Chamomile varieties: Roman vs German
In medicinal gardens, two varieties of chamomile are prized for their gentleness and effectiveness: Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) and German chamomile (Matricaria recutita).
Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile): a noble, gentle herb
Among beneficial plants, Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) holds a special place, celebrated for its soothing properties that calm body and mind. This noble, gentle herb, whose soothing virtues have been known since antiquity, remains a favourite among lovers of natural wellbeing. Its rich essential oil content makes it exceptionally effective at relieving ailments such as anxiety and sleep problems, while also making it a valuable ally for our digestive system. Treating yourself to a Roman chamomile infusion means choosing a moment of pure relaxation, with the promise of a peaceful night and a settled stomach.
German chamomile (Matricaria recutita): the power of a wildflower
German chamomile, known by its scientific name Matricaria recutita, embodies the power of a wildflower brimming with health benefits. Also known as wild chamomile, this plant is prized for its soothing properties, helping to ease everyday ailments. An infusion of its dried flowers offers a natural remedy for anxiety, promoting restful sleep and improving digestion. Its anti-inflammatory properties also make it an effective ally in soothing digestive problems and inflammatory pain.
