Chamomile: Nature's Little Medicine Cabinet
Winter is coming, and the weather is very tricky. Day by day, I see more and more people catching colds or developing urinary tract infections. While modern medicine is invaluable when we truly need it, many people have forgotten that some of nature's remedies can help us support our body's healing process before a problem becomes more serious.
One of my favourites is chamomile.
Dried chamomile is your best friend through autumn, winter, and spring. It has been used for generations, and for good reason. It is versatile, powerful, and usually sitting quietly on a shelf while we reach for something much more complicated.
Let's look at some of the ways it can be used.
Chamomile Tea
If you simply want a pleasant evening drink, a chamomile tea bag will do. But if you are using chamomile as a traditional herbal remedy, I recommend loose dried chamomile flowers.
Place two heaped teaspoons of dried chamomile into a cup and pour hot water over it. Allow it to steep until it cools. Strain and drink.
I usually recommend one cup in the evening and one in the morning. To save time, make a double portion in the evening so it's ready for the morning rush.
For children, use approximately half the adult amount.
Chamomile is known for its antibacterial properties. However, it does not distinguish between beneficial and harmful bacteria. For this reason, I would not drink a strong chamomile infusion continuously for more than five days. Afterwards, it is worth supporting your system with probiotics.
Chamomile Baths
For children, especially little girls who are prone to urinary discomfort, chamomile baths can be wonderfully soothing.
Prepare a strong chamomile infusion and add it to warm bath water. Always prepare the tea before the child enters the bath and ensure the temperature is comfortable.
As an added bonus, the fragrant steam can help clear the airways and make breathing easier when little ones are struggling with seasonal illnesses.
Chamomile Steam Inhalation
Chamomile can also be used for steam inhalation.
Prepare a strong infusion, place the bowl safely in front of you, and inhale the steam carefully. This traditional remedy has long been used to support respiratory health during colds and seasonal illnesses.
Always take care to avoid burns and supervise children around hot water.
Chamomile for Eye Care
Chamomile has traditionally been used to cleanse and soothe irritated eyes.
Prepare a fresh tea and allow it to cool completely. Using clean cosmetic cotton pads, gently wipe the closed eye area.
Always use a fresh batch of tea. Never reuse old tea, and always use a new cotton pad for each application.
This method has been used for generations for both humans and animals.
A Little Wisdom from Nature
Natural remedies are wonderful allies, but they are not replacements for professional medical care.
Chamomile often works best when used at the first signs that something is not quite right. If symptoms worsen, persist, or concern you, seek advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
Our ancestors knew a great deal about working with nature. Perhaps it's time we remembered some of that wisdom.
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