Properties and uses of chamomile. Useful and healing properties of chamomile. Use of chamomile, contraindications

Common chamomile is an ancient medicinal plant that can instantly combat dozens of insidious diseases. In addition to the famous “love it or not,” it is used in cosmetology, during pregnancy, and as a sedative. Chamomile tincture works real miracles, surprising the world with the versatility of its healing effects. It is recommended for both adults and children, both internally and externally. Let's consider beneficial features magic "weed" in more detail.

What are the benefits of chamomile tincture?

Infusions and decoctions medicinal plant endowed with powerful healing powers, thanks to the rich “filling” of the flowers. These include:

• essential oils;
• vitamin C;
• carotene;
• oleic, palmitic, nicotinic acid;
• glucose;
• useful minerals - potassium, zinc and copper;
• tannins.

Thanks to such an impressive set, healing qualities chamomile is almost unlimited.

Drug effect

Chamomile tincture has the following powers:

• fights diseases gastrointestinal tract;
• has choleretic, hemostatic, antiseptic, disinfectant and diuretic effects;
• relieves flatulence and stomach cramps;
• relieves inflammation of the gums, mucous membranes, wounds;
• treats rheumatism, gout, arthritis and other vascular diseases;
• makes you forget about hemorrhoids, cystitis and other gynecological ailments;
• calms the nervous system and normalizes sleep;
• inspires the brain to be active;
• treats diseases of the liver, kidneys, Bladder;
• heals inflammatory eye diseases;
• banishes allergies and migraines;
• normalizes the respiratory system;
• treats flu and colds;
• increases the amount of milk in nursing women;
• normalizes menstrual cycles;
• strengthens and brightens hair;
• cleanses and rejuvenates the skin;
• helps you lose those unwanted pounds.

Attention! Chamomile tincture is one of the few remedies that can be used by patients with high acidity of gastric juice.

Chamomile infusions: diseases and recipes

• Cold. Dilute 8-10 teaspoons of flowers cold water(2 cups), leave for 10 hours, filter. Use the resulting decoction to wash hair when it is falling out, to rinse non-healing wounds and burns, for eye diseases (externally), for gargling (for sore throat) and the mouth (for inflammatory processes).
• Hot. Pour boiling water (1 glass) over the inflorescences of the plant (1 tablespoon), leave for half an hour, filter. Take the infusion hot 3 times a day, ¼ cup, for migraines, colds, diarrhea, bloating, stomach and intestinal cramps.

Attention! Chamomile flowers cannot be boiled; such a decoction will be unsuitable for medicinal purposes. A regular water bath is much more harmless.

For inflammation of the respiratory tract

Brew 1 teaspoon of inflorescences with a glass of boiling water. After cooling slightly and straining the broth, rinse your nose with it for inflammation and nasal boils, gargle for laryngitis and sore throat.

For kidney diseases and chronic cystitis

Chamomile tincture, the use of which is advisable for pyelonephritis and cystitis, is prepared as follows: pour boiling water (half a liter) over the flowers (2 teaspoons), leave for 1 hour, strain. Take 1 tbsp. spoon 3 times a day.

For acute gastritis

Brew dried flowers (4-5 teaspoons) with boiling water (2 cups), place on moderate heat for literally 1 minute, remove from heat and leave for 20 minutes. Strain the infusion and drink three times a day before meals. Can be mixed with a little honey.

For stomach disorders

Pour boiling water (1 liter) over mint leaves, chamomile flowers (1 tablespoon each), chopped pomegranate peel (1 teaspoon). Leave for 2 hours, filter and take 50g 3-4 times a day.

For stomach cramps

Tincture of chamomile and lemon balm leaves are great for stomach cramps and colic. 2 tbsp. Dilute spoons of herbal composition with boiling water (3 cups) and leave for 7-8 hours. You need to drink a glass of it warm three times a day.

For diarrhea and dysentery

Brew the inflorescences of the plant (2 teaspoons) with boiling water (1 glass), wrap and leave for 1 hour. Then filter and drink 0.5 glasses 3-4 times a day.

For peptic ulcers

Recipe for peptic ulcer the same as above, only the decoction is infused longer - 8-10 hours. You need to take it 15-20 minutes before meals 3 times a day for a month. After taking, alternately lie on your sides, back and stomach so that the infusion spreads to the entire gastric mucosa.

For intestinal cramps and bloating

For inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat

Chamomile tincture is an excellent remedy for stomatitis, sore throat, tonsillitis and inflammation. oral cavity. Pour boiling water (half a liter) over the flowers of the plant (2 tablespoons), leave for half an hour, and then strain. Adding 1 tbsp. spoon of honey, rinse your mouth and throat 5-6 times a day.

For inflammatory eye diseases

Brew dried inflorescences (1-2 teaspoons) with boiling water (a glass). Leave for 60 minutes, filter through gauze and rinse your eyes. The procedure should be carried out three times a day until the inflammatory processes are eliminated.

Chamomile in gynecology

The miraculous “weed” is an excellent healer for gynecological ailments. Inflammation genitourinary system, fungi, streptococci, viruses, thrush, cystitis - this whole bunch of problems is solved by chamomile tincture. Its use in gynecology has been practiced for a long time - in medical and for preventive purposes.

Decoctions and infusions of the plant are good for douching. To do this, you will need the following ingredients: chamomile and nettle (30 g each), knotweed herb (50 g) and oak bark (10 g). Brew the healing mixture (2 tablespoons) with boiling water (1 liter), keep on low heat for 5 minutes, cool and filter. Use warm for washing and douching.

Is it possible to treat with chamomile during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, chamomile is used both internally and externally. Its infusions and decoctions are absolutely harmless and are indicated for any period of time. You can use them to make baths, compresses, douching, inhalations, drink for flatulence, constipation, stress and tension.

Attention! Chamomile tincture during pregnancy should be consumed in small doses (no more than 400 g), since the plant provokes the production of estrogens by the ovaries, which can cause miscarriage.

Chamomile infusions in cosmetology

The medicinal plant also contributes to cosmetology. The beneficial substances it contains strengthen, restore and lighten hair, and cleanse the skin.

Regularly rinsing your hair with chamomile will make it soft, glossy and healthy. The tincture will give light strands an iridescent golden tone, and dark ones a slight lightening.

Recipe for strengthening hair

Recovery damaged structure For hair loss, excessive oiliness and dandruff, prepare a tincture of chamomile, plantain, nettle and sage. 1 tbsp. Fill a spoonful of the mixture with a liter of boiling water, strain, apply to strands, cover your head with polyethylene and do this for about an hour. The effect will be noticeable after 2-3 procedures.

To lighten strands

Chamomile tincture is an excellent analogue to lightening chemicals. Its use in conjunction with nettle, hydrogen peroxide, lemon juice, honey or glycerin gives your hair delightful shades.

To lighten hair or wash off any remaining dye, prepare an infusion of chamomile flowers (8 tablespoons), juice of half a lemon and vegetable oil (2 tablespoons). Pour boiling water (500 g) over dry inflorescences, heat in a water bath for 15 minutes, cool. After straining, add lemon juice and oil to the broth. Apply the mask to the strands, wait until they dry completely, and then rinse with shampoo. Regular use of a lightening mask for a month will help lighten your hair by 1-2 tones.

Attention! Chamomile can cause allergies. One day before cosmetic procedures moisten the elbow or wrist with a strong infusion, and after 10 hours, inspect this place. If there is redness, itching or burning, it is better to avoid using this plant.

For facial skin

Using plant infusions on the face will help smooth out wrinkles, eliminate irritation, acne, pimples, rashes, soften and restore the skin.

To solve all these problems, pour the strained chamomile tincture into ice cube trays and place in the refrigerator. Rub your face with cubes every day - the skin will become smooth, silky, all blackheads, pimples and irritations will go away.

From infusions you can make lotions for problem areas, facial inhalations, steam baths, and wash your face regularly. An effective remedy for skin inflammation and neurodermatitis is chamomile alcohol tincture. To prepare it, pour dry inflorescences with 70% alcohol (1:10), leave to infuse for 3 weeks, then strain and safely use.

Chamomile for weight loss

A healing plant in combination with other herbs helps to reset overweight. An infusion of chamomile, St. John's wort, birch buds and immortelle, taken in equal doses, should be drunk before each meal. The decoction effectively burns fat layers, while cleansing and rejuvenating the body.

Probably in every home there is a package of dry medicinal chamomile. After all, it is the first assistant for almost all ailments for children and adults, as well as an effective cosmetic product. The medicinal properties of the plant have been known for a long time, but not everyone knows how to properly brew chamomile for drinking, in which cases a decoction and tea is needed, and in which a tincture is needed, to whom and how the herb can harm. You will find answers to all these questions and many more interesting things further in the article.

Chemical composition

The healthfulness of this short annual from the Astrov family is due to its the richest composition. IN medicinal purposes Only inconspicuous small inflorescences are used, which have a strong specific aroma.

Did you know? The Latin name of chamomile (Matricaria recutita) comes from the Greek word, which means “mother”. Linguists associate its etymology with the healing properties of the potion.

• essential oil blue (from 0.1 to 1.0%);
• quercetin derivatives;
• luteolin;
• apigenin;
• coumarins (umbelliferone and herniarin);
• caprylic acid;
• anthemisic organic acid;
• isovaleric acid,
• salicylic acid;
• tannins;
• ascorbic acid (223 mg in leaves and 135 mg in flowers);
• polyine compounds;
• polysaccharides;
• gum;
• vitamins;
• carotene;
• bitterness;
• phytosterols;
• protein substances;
• glycosides;
• flavonoids (there are 2 times more of them in chamomile than in marigolds and yarrow);
• mucous substances;
• alkaloids (available only in flower baskets, and absent in leaves and stems);
• sulfur (2.4 g);
• potassium (37.34 g);
• chlorine (10.8 g);
• calcium (16.33 g);
• phosphorus (3.34 g);
• silicon dioxide (2 g);
• magnesium (3.6 g).

Important! It is better to harvest chamomile medicinal raw materials in the second ten days of June, when the peak of its flowering begins. In the evening and in the heat they decrease metabolic processes in the plant, so you need to pick flower baskets in the morning, in dry weather.

Beneficial features

The healing effects of chamomile are recognized not only by folk herbalists, but also official medicine. Despite technological progress and latest developments synthetic medications, today many medicines based on chamomile oil, which is the most valuable component of the plant, are on sale. Natural extracts from this plant are also highly valued in cosmetology.

Thanks to the unique combination of components, flower baskets have an antibacterial, choleretic, and calming effect. Chamomile also stimulates appetite, relieves muscle spasms of the gastrointestinal tract, and relieves pain.

• gastritis;
• digestive disorders;
• increased acidity gastric juice;
• gastrointestinal ulcers;
• colitis;
• malignant tumors;
• cystitis;
• bladder diseases;
• cholecystitis;
• thyroid dysfunction;
• colds and viral infections;
• problematic skin;
• colpitis;
• conjunctivitis;
• burns;
• purulent wounds that take a long time to heal poorly;
• toothache;
• gout and rheumatism.

Did you know?If cows are grazed in chamomile meadows, their milk will be enriched with useful substances, but it is impossible to drink because of the strong unpleasant odor.

Tea Recipes

Chamomile tea can be drunk not only during illness; its benefits are obvious even for preventive purposes. Daily 1-2 cups of pleasant aromatic drink will not interfere, but on the contrary, will relieve fatigue and strengthen the body. And if you add a teaspoon of honey to your drink and drink it at night, it will be strong and healthy sleep secured.
There are no restrictions for chamomile tea. People can and should take it of different ages and even newborns. In fact, this is a natural, completely harmless medicine.

Herbalists advise preparing the drink according to classic recipe: Brew a teaspoon of dried raw materials with a glass of boiling water and leave for about 10 minutes. Depending on the time during which the drink was infused, it can have different colors: from light yellow to dark brown.
In most cases, for illnesses they use chamomile tea V pure form. His healing effect does not occur immediately: for this you will need to take several courses. But for preventive purposes, you can drink herbal teas.

Did you know? Oil medicinal chamomile Ancient Egyptian peoples used it to mummify the bodies of the dead.

Herbalists recommend several popular tea recipes based on chamomile inflorescences:

1. Chamomile-mint tea has a pleasant aroma and taste, relieves stress, helps to relax, eliminates various kinds pain, inflammation and helps to sleep. To prepare the drink, you will need a sprig of fresh or dried mint, 1 teaspoon of chamomile flower heads and 20 ml of boiling water. Pour everything into a teapot and fill it with water. Then cover with a lid and let the drink brew for a few minutes.
2. Chamomile-thyme tea helps with insomnia, colds, inflammatory processes. It is prepared from equal parts of chamomile and thyme (take a teaspoon of herbs per glass of boiling water).
3. Chamomile lemon balm tea not only healthy, but also very tasty. Lemon varieties of lemon balm are often used for it, which are characterized by a pronounced pleasant smell. Drinking helps relieve fever painful sensations, inflammation during colds, has a calming effect. To make it fragrant and healthy drink, just add half a teaspoon of dried lemon balm or 5-6 fresh leaves to the chamomile teapot.

Important!To distinguish medicinal chamomile from other types, cut it crosswise. Instances with a hollow interior are suitable for various types of therapy and disease prevention. Also, for drying, you need to look for inflorescences with a pronounced apple-honey smell.

Use in folk medicine: treatment of diseases

For diseases, you can use medications based on medicinal chamomile flowers. These are “Rotokan”, “Rekutan”, “Auron”, “Ramazulon”, essential chamomile oil. But remedy very easy to prepare at home. The main thing is to always have it at hand healing raw materials. Let’s take a closer look at what exactly folk healers recommend treating with chamomile, and what instructions for use are recommended in specific cases.

Cold

The herb is very effective for mild colds, sore throats, bronchitis and other respiratory diseases. It is advisable to treat with teas, mouth rinses, and inhalations.

Herbalists in similar cases advise to cook herbal tea from 1 tablespoon each of chamomile, plantain and calendula. Then 30 g of the mixture is poured into 200 ml of boiling water and left for 3 hours. You need to take the medicine in between meals, a third of a glass.

Important! For drying, the flowers and no more than 3 cm of the stem are plucked. Dry raw materials can be stored for 2 years.

Runny nose

A runny nose, which often accompanies colds, is a good treatment chamomile infusion. It is prepared from 2 tablespoons of dried flowers and a glass of boiling water. You need to find an enamel container for the product so that it doesn’t get lost during the heating process. useful qualities.
When all ingredients are mixed, place the saucepan on water bath and leave for about half an hour. Then let it cool for 10 minutes and strain the medicine. At the final stage of preparation, the resulting decoction is diluted with boiled water to obtain 200 ml of liquid. The product is used for inhalation, rinsing and washing the nasal passages.

To treat abscesses of the gums and teeth, use only cold decoctions and tinctures of chamomile, since heating the sore spot can provoke the development of infection and complications caused by the breakthrough of suppuration.

Herbalists recommend preparing a classic tea or decoction from a glass of boiling water and a tablespoon of raw materials, then putting the liquid in the freezer when it cools down. Then apply ice cubes to the sore tooth to relieve inflammation and relieve pain. Rinsing your mouth with cold chamomile tea also helps. As an alternative, you can apply tampons soaked in chamomile infusion to the inflamed cheek.

Important! Prepared decoction from pharmaceutical chamomile Can be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 2 days.

For pregnant and lactating women, dentists recommend traditional rinsing with a herbal decoction of equal portions of chamomile and St. John's wort. To obtain the desired effect, just pour a tablespoon of the mixture into a glass of boiling water. Then add 1 teaspoon of soda to the resulting liquid. If you rinse your mouth with this medicine for 5-10 minutes, the pain will go away in an hour.

Eyes

Knowing what chamomile decoction helps with, if necessary, you can begin timely treatment of conjunctivitis, blepharitis, glaucoma and even cataracts. IN complex therapy Traditional medicine advises brewing 2-3 tablespoons of inflorescences with a glass of boiling water. After an hour, when the medicine has infused, it must be carefully filtered through double gauze and rinsed with a clean swab. It is advisable to repeat the procedure several times a day until the illness goes away.

Heart arythmy

In case of dysfunction of cardio-vascular system During periods of exacerbation of symptoms, it is useful to plunge your face into cold chamomile tea. Also effective is a herbal mixture prepared from equal parts of flowers, chamomile and a double portion of leaves and. Pour 200 ml of boiling water over a tablespoon of the mixture, cover with a tight lid and leave for 5 minutes. Then they drink in one gulp. You need to take the medicine three times a day exclusively in fresh form. The course of treatment lasts about 3 months.

Did you know? You can tell the time by the colors of medicinal chamomile. At 6 o'clock in the morning their petals are directed upward, towards 4 pm they are placed horizontally, and by 7 o'clock they are pressed tightly against the peduncle.

Constipation

Thanks to chamazulene, which is part of the essential oil, chamomile is indispensable for the stomach and intestines. In addition, its mucous components help improve the functioning of the digestive tract in infants and older people. Classic chamomile decoctions and teas are recommended for use both for medicinal and preventive purposes.
For constipation in newborns and children preschool age Microenemas made from warm chamomile infusion are recommended. Babies under one year old are given no more than 15 ml of liquid.

Gastritis

Chamomile will also help relieve spasms and adjust the proper functioning of the intestines in such cases. As a therapeutic agent, traditional medicine advises drinking half a glass of herbal decoction every morning and evening. To prepare it, you need to take 2 tablespoons of inflorescences and 200 ml of boiling water. To improve the effect, some recipes suggest adding equal parts of leaves and seeds. When the mixture is infused, it should be strained and taken three times a day after meals.

Important!You can remove the specific smell of medicine from chamomile using valerian root.

Stomach and duodenal ulcers

Eliminate painful sensations when an ulcer opens in the stomach and duodenum Chamomile decoction helps. Herbalists recommend drinking it daily instead of tea, 3-4 cups between meals.

Liver and biliary tract

When gallstone disease is a concern, traditional healers advise drinking a warm infusion of chamomile three times a day. It is prepared from 1.5 tablespoons of flower baskets and 200 ml of water. All components are combined and left to infuse for 8-9 hours. Then they filter, squeeze out the raw materials, and add whipped cream or butter to the liquid.

Prostatitis

This unpleasant male disease on initial stages development can be stopped with chamomile infusions. The liquid is recommended to be used for intestinal lavage and internal procedures.
The medicine is prepared from 30 g of dry raw materials and half a glass of boiling water. The components are combined, infused for about 30 minutes, then strained. It is advisable to drink the product every day in the morning and evening, and do microenemas for 48 hours (before bedtime).

Did you know?In addition to medicine, chamomile is widely used in perfume and porcelain production.

Application in cosmetology

Chamomile can be found in many cosmetic hair and skin care products. This component is especially common in children's cosmetics. But, despite the wide range of store-bought creams, masks, shampoos and gels, most women trust homemade products. Let's figure out how you can use herbs to beauty your body.

For hair

All the blondes who give preference natural remedies, know about lightening hair with chamomile. If you regularly rinse your hair after washing with a herbal decoction, in a couple of months your hair will lighten a couple of tones. Moreover, the procedure contributes to the health and shine of strands. Some brown-haired women have gotten used to making hair dyes from medicinal plants, glycerin and hydrogen peroxide. As natural ingredients Chamomile inflorescences and nettle leaves are used. You can add a little juice to make your curls shine.
A special mask made from equal portions of chamomile, plantain, nettle, etc. will help restore lifeless hair with split ends. Pour 30 g of the mixture with a glass of boiling water and let it brew for a couple of hours. Then strain, mix the crumbs into the liquid rye bread until you obtain a pasty consistency. After these manipulations, apply the mask to the roots of the hair (if there is any left, you can stretch it along the entire length), wrap your head in plastic and a towel. After an hour, wash it off.

Did you know? Popular belief says that chamomile blooms where stars have fallen.

Some owners of blond hair add chamomile tea and lemon juice to their shampoo with each wash. For colored hair, in order not to dry it out, it is advisable to add a few drops of burdock, castor or any other oil.

For skin

Many ladies who care about their appearance and health begin and end the day by rubbing their faces with chamomile infusion. This is done in order to give the skin freshness and a healthy glow. For aging and tired skin, it will be very useful to place the prepared broth in the freezer for several hours, then wipe your face with ice. Similar procedure has a beneficial effect on problematic skin, various kinds of rashes and irritations.
For burns and skin dermatitis traditional healers It is recommended to make oil from chamomile. To do this, just mix 4 tablespoons of dry raw materials and 100 ml olive oil. The mixture must be brought to a boil, then left for 10 days and strained.

If the tan is unsuccessful and the skin is burned, chamomile ointment will prevent the appearance of blisters. It is prepared from well-dried grass and Vaseline passed through a coffee grinder. The ratio of ingredients is 1:5.

Important!With the systematic use of pharmaceutical chamomile, it is quite possible to get rid of even chronic diseases.

Application in gynecology

Chamomile teas, infusions and decoctions are very helpful for diseases of the female genital organs and painful menstruation. Transferred funds recommended for both internal and external use.
In order to neutralize the causative agents of inflammatory processes, gynecologists often prescribe douching with chamomile decoctions, as well as drinking copious amounts of teas brewed from this culture. The fact is that drinking relieves fever and relieves pain.

A medicinal potion is prepared at the rate of 2 tablespoons of flowers per 1 liter of boiling water. The ingredients are simmered over low heat until boiling. Then wrap the covered pan well and leave to infuse. The liquid is suitable for drinking and douching. For the last therapeutic variation, the temperature of the drug should not exceed 38°C.
The herb is also indicated for expectant mothers to improve intestinal function and strengthen the immune system. The main thing is that before you start taking chamomile infusion orally, be sure to consult with your doctor about possible benefits and harm.

Important! Never collect medicinal chamomile raw materials near roads and industrial enterprises.

Contraindications

It would seem that chamomile, which has so many medicinal properties, is completely harmless. But experts identify a certain group of people who should refrain from such therapy and preventive measures. This includes allergy sufferers who are sensitive to the substances contained in the plant, as well as people suffering from mental disorders, in particular, schizophrenia.
It is also important to know when to stop. In cases of overdose, the following are possible:

• headache;
• cough;
• physical exhaustion;
• general fatigue;
• depression.

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pharmaceutical camomile (medicinal) is a very well-known and widespread plant in our latitudes. This is an annual plant belonging to the genus Matricaria, the Asteraceae family, and is found in different regions North America, Eurasia, other extratropical regions. Translated from Latin language The name of the plant means "mother herb". The fact is that it was previously used mainly for the treatment of female diseases.

Previously, chamomile grew mainly in the wild, but now this medicinal herb is actively cultivated. After all, chamomile flowers are a valuable medicinal raw material, in demand and used to treat many diseases. It is included in many drugs as a active ingredient, and is also widely used in cosmetology, as an ingredient in creams, soaps, shampoos, etc.

On average it grows to 20-40 cm. If the stem herbaceous plant very long, then this is evidence of a lack of sunlight during the period when it was actively growing. The stem is erect, quite thin, hollow inside.

The leaves are 2-5 cm long, they are located alternately on the stem. The narrow-linear leaf has dissections with sharp segments. The root is thin, taprooted, with virtually no branches. The flower baskets are small, with white petals around the edges and yellow flowers.

How does medicinal chamomile differ from its other varieties?

On the flower basket of the medicinal variety, the petals are either arranged horizontally or lowered to the bottom. The shape of the receptacle is conical, convex. The flower has a hollow head.

Chemical composition

The flowers contain the following chemicals:

• bioflavonoids derivatives apigenin , quercetin And luteolin ;
• coumarins (umbelliferon, herniorin);
• unrelated organic acids –salicylic , isovaleric , anthemisovaya , caprylic ;
• polysaccharides ;
• phytosterols ;
• vitamins ( , );
• tannins;
• protein substances;
• carotene ;
• mucus, gum, bitterness.

Dry baskets contain from 0.1 to 0.8% essential oil, it is called chamomile. This oil is bluish in color and contains many components. The most valuable of them is azulene chamazulene (in oil it is approximately 1-9%). Chamazulene is synthesized by steam distillation of the raw material from the lactones matrixin and matricarine. Produces a pronounced anti-inflammatory, anti-allergenic, bacteriostatic effect.

About half of the oil's composition is a number of other sesquiterpenoids: bisabolol , farnesene and etc.

Medicinal properties of chamomile

The fact that this plant has pronounced medicinal properties was known back in ancient times. Hippocrates and Dioscorides also used it to remove seizures and pain relief. Avicenna believed that this plant was an excellent tonic. But Pliny the Elder used chamomile as an antidote if a person was bitten by a snake, and its decoction is used as a diuretic.

Currently, both dried flowers (for preparing decoctions and infusions) and essential oil are very widely used in medicine.

Chamomile flowers - medicinal properties

• anti-inflammatory;
• disinfectant;
• painkiller;
• choleretic;
• sedative;
• antispasmodic;
• anticonvulsant;
• astringent (weak);
• antiallergic;
• carminative;
• hemostatic.

Healing properties of essential oil

• disinfects;
• provides a diaphoretic effect;
• reduces gas formation;
• activates the digestion process, improves gastrointestinal functions;
• reduces the severity of pain, including migraine ;
• reduces the intensity of inflammatory processes;
• stimulates the central nervous system, while reducing tension, reduces symptoms;
• has an antibacterial effect;
• dilates the vessels through which blood enters the brain;
• eliminates spasm of smooth muscles.

The beneficial properties of medicinal chamomile have been proven by scientists from different countries during the research process. Was held special study, during which scientists from the UK determined that chamomile can relax blood vessels, as well as smooth muscles. And American researchers have confirmed that the product from the plant produces an anti-anxiety and antidepressant effect. In addition, scientists have proven that the stem, leaves and flowers of the plant have radioprotective properties.

Other studies were also conducted, during which scientists obtained evidence healing properties this plant. The benefits of chamomile and what diseases it is used for will be discussed below.

Indications for use

In medicine, the following indications for the use of chamomile are defined:

• inflammatory skin diseases, including burns , purulent wounds;
• gallbladder disease;
• stomach diseases, chronic and acute, in which inflammatory processes of the mucous membrane develop ( gastropathy );
• diseases of the respiratory system, in which there is concern, spasm of the bronchi, swelling of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract;
• inflammatory processes of the mucous membranes;
• inflammation internal organs, in particular the genitourinary system;
• allergic gastritis, and other diseases that develop as a result hypersensitivity body;
• connective tissue damage;
• pain, including toothache And migraine .

Treatment with chamomile can last up to three months, addiction to chamomile preparations and allergic manifestations when using them, as a rule, it is not observed.

Since the medicinal properties of chamomile are very diverse, it is used for various diseases and conditions. Chamomile flowers, the medicinal properties of which are described above, are used in the form of infusions, decoctions, etc.

Their use internally is indicated in the following cases:

• for illnesses digestive system – , , enteritis, as well as biliary tract;
• for stomach cramps, liver diseases;
• high body temperature;
• inflammatory processes respiratory system, ENT organs;
• uterine bleeding, metrorrhagia after childbirth;
• period pain;
• respiratory infections;
• severe fatigue;
• high excitability;
• loss of appetite.

The use of chamomile infusion externally is practiced:

• as a rinse for diseases of the oral cavity (, gingivitis , inflammation of the gums), toothache, ;
• as a lotion or compress for abscesses, ulcers, rashes, frostbite, burns, wounds that are difficult to heal;
• as microenemas for;
• for wiping when heavy sweating legs and arms;
• for washing during inflammatory processes of the eye mucosa;
• as a means for wiping and washing for pimples and acne;
• as a poultice for bruises, , .

If you purchase chamomile flowers at a pharmacy, the instructions for use will contain recommendations on exactly how to prepare the herb in the form of a decoction or infusion.

Decoction

For the decoction you need to take 4 tbsp. l. flowers and pour 300 ml of boiling water over them. Keep in a water bath for half an hour, then cool and strain, squeezing. Drink 3 times a day after meals. You should add honey to the chamomile decoction.

Infusion

You need to take 4 tbsp. l. flowers, pour them into a thermos and pour 200 ml. boiling water Leave for 3 hours. You need to drink 4 times a day in equal portions.

The decoction and infusion are stored in the refrigerator for no more than 2 days.

Soothing tea

To prepare a tea that has a calming and carminative effect, use the following ingredients: chamomile (3 parts), caraway seeds (5 parts), valerian root (2 parts). After mixing the ingredients, take two tablespoons of the mixture and pour two tbsp. boiling water After 20 minutes of infusion, strain. Drink 100 ml in the evening and in the morning.

Tea for weight loss

1 tsp. flowers need to be filled with 200 ml of water and left for 10 minutes. Throughout the day you need to drink 4-5 glasses of tea. The course should not last more than two weeks.

Baths

To prepare baths, take the entire above-ground part of the plant. For one bath you need 500 g of such raw material, pour 2 liters of water and boil for 10 minutes. Strain the broth and pour into the bath. Such baths are taken for two weeks, every other day. The procedure lasts 30 minutes. They are recommended for the following diseases and conditions:

• skin diseases – , wounds;
• increased nervousness, poor sleep;
• peeling and dryness skin;
• cramps of the calf muscles;
• liver diseases;
• cracked heels;
• consequences of x-ray exposure;
• severe leg fatigue.

Cream

To prepare such a product, you need to melt 50 g of not too fatty oil in a water bath. butter and 3 tbsp. l. vegetable oil. Add 1 tsp. , 2 yolks, 30 ml camphor alcohol, 50 ml chamomile infusion, 2 tbsp. l. honey After thorough mixing, everything needs to be poured into a glass container. This self-prepared product can be stored for up to six months in the refrigerator.

Chamomile cream should be used in the following cases:

• at severe dryness skin;
• when peeling skin or cracks appear;
• in case of laxity of the skin and turgor;
• with redness and irritation.

Douching

To prepare the solution, 1 tsp. flowers need to be poured with 200 ml of boiling water and left for half an hour. The strained solution is taken into a syringe and vaginal douching is done at night. They need to be done every day for a week. Douching is done slowly. This procedure is indicated in the following cases:

• inflammatory processes, however, not during exacerbations;
• , nonspecific and specific.

Such procedures are contraindicated in the following cases:

• after the age of 40, since at this age the moisture of the mucous membranes decreases, and douching can aggravate the situation;
• during ;
• during acute inflammatory processes;
• in the first month after gynecological interventions.

Tampons

In the process of treating cervical erosion, tampons with chamomile are used. To prepare an infusion for soaking a tampon, you need to take 20 g of flowers and add 1 liter of water, then leave in a thermos for a day. Next, you need to take aloe leaves that have been in the refrigerator for 2 days, grind them into a paste and squeeze them out. Mix these ingredients in equal proportions. Dip a hygienic tampon into the prepared solution and place it in the vagina overnight.

Contraindications for use are similar to contraindications for douching.

Use for cosmetic purposes

For freckles

Chamomile can help get rid of freckles and whiten your facial skin. To do this, you need to take 20 g of flowers and pour 500 ml of boiling water over them. After a while, strain, add the juice of 2 lemons and half a liter of yogurt to the liquid. All this needs to be mixed well. Soak gauze pads with the resulting solution and place them on those areas of the skin where there are a lot of freckles and keep them there for one hour. Then you need to wash off the product cool water and apply rich cream to your face. These masks are made three times a week.

When the face is red

To reduce the severity of redness and irritation of the skin, prepare next remedy. One tbsp. l. chamomile flowers need to be poured with a glass of boiling water. After steeping for an hour, strain, add 1 tbsp. l honey. Soak gauze pads in the solution and apply to the skin. Keep for half an hour. When the napkin dries out, replace it with a damp one.

For acne

To reduce the severity of the rash, take 2 tbsp. l. chamomile flowers and 1 tbsp. l. dry celandine and pour 1 liter of boiling water into this mixture. After the product has been infused for half a day, it is filtered and used to wipe those areas where acne constantly appears. This must be done at least 5 times a day.

For brittle and dry hair

You need to pour 4 tbsp. l. chamomile 0.5 liters of boiling water. After half an hour, strain. Add the egg yolk and apply the solution to your hair, spreading it carefully over the entire length. After half an hour, you need to rinse your hair thoroughly. This procedure is carried out 2-3 times a week. for a month. Interestingly, if blondes use this solution, their hair will become lighter and gain shine.

This remedy is also used for various purposes.

For aromatherapy

Since this oil does not have a very pungent and intolerable odor, it is well received by both children and the elderly. This oil effectively disinfects the air and has a positive effect on the body as a whole. However, some people note that this oil has a bitter taste. To ensure a positive effect, a few drops of oil are added to the aroma lamp and such a session is carried out for about 20 minutes in the evenings.

Oral use

The oil is used internally along with honey - one tsp. honey - 2 drops. Drink morning and evening, course - one week. This remedy has a positive effect on the body in case of problems with diabetes, poor appetite, gastritis, ulcers (except for periods of exacerbation). It is also indicated to be taken for menstrual irregularities, during. The product helps reduce irritability and restore normal emotional background. Its use has a positive effect on mental activity. However, you should know that expectant mothers, women during lactation, and children under six years of age should not take the oil orally.

External use

If necessary, the oil can be applied to the skin without first diluting it. But it should be applied pointwise: apply a cotton pad with oil to the problem area for several minutes. This use of oil is practiced when following states and diseases:

• diseases associated with allergic reaction – , ;
• inflammatory processes due to sun or thermal burns– during the healing period;
• after insect bites;
• ulcers, poorly healing wounds;
• , acne;
• small wrinkles;
• ingrown toenail – after surgery;
• , – rub into hair roots;
• rosacea

For these problems, use chamomile oil for up to 10 days. Essential oil can also be added to any cosmetic product used - lotion, cream, etc. To correctly calculate the proportion, you need to add 3 drops of oil per 5 ml of cream or lotion.

You can also use it during a massage, mixing it with a base oil - for example, olive oil. For 10 ml of base, take 5 drops. essential oil.

To scent a bath, just add 10 drops. oils

Chamomile oil can also be combined with other oils, as chamomile enhances their effectiveness. These are oils of orange, lavender, geranium, sage, bergamot, marjoram, etc.

Chamomile for children

When using chamomile flowers for children, their medicinal properties and contraindications must be taken into account.

Pharmacy chamomile is used as tea for children after 1 year. For small children, you need to dilute the tea with water or buy special children's tea.

But externally, the herb and chamomile flowers are used even earlier, even before the baby turns one year old. However, the concentration of the decoction should be low.

Parents of small children should consult with their pediatrician on how to properly use chamomile flowers. The beneficial properties and contraindications for its use should be especially carefully considered by parents of infants.

Contraindications

Despite the fact that many consider this plant to be absolutely harmless, contraindications for chamomile still exist. First of all, it is important to take into account the contraindications for women - chamomile is contraindicated for pregnant women, and nursing mothers should drink it with caution. To people suffering chronic diseases, as well as those who take vital medications, should consult a doctor before using decoctions, infusions or oils. It is also not used in case of individual intolerance.

Side effects

When taken orally, the following negative effects may occur:

• increased blood pressure;
• risk of bleeding;
• vomit;
• bronchospasm - in people with intolerance.

For external use:

• allergic rash;

How to prepare and store

Flowers are collected in summer, doing this in dry weather. The highest concentration of essential oil in chamomile is observed from June to August. For external use, the entire plant is used; therefore, for this purpose, the raw materials are prepared in this way.

You need to dry the grass in the shade, while ventilating the room well.

When using a dryer, the temperature should not be higher than 40 degrees. During the drying process, the plant is not turned over to prevent the petals from falling off.

Store dried raw materials in paper or fabric bags in a dry and dark place. Used throughout the year. Since chamomile has a strong odor, it should not be stored near foods that could absorb the scent.

Chamomile is produced in the following forms:

Chamomile extract is also included in many cosmetical tools, ointments, dietary supplements.

The healing properties of chamomile have long been known to man, so this plant is used in the treatment of many diseases. Pharmaceutical chamomile is recommended for use by such luminaries of medicine as Hippocrates, Paracelsus and Avicenna. They successfully used the medicinal properties of this plant for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes for almost all known diseases of the human body.

Like all herbal remedies, chamomile has both medicinal properties and contraindications. Both the first and second must be taken into account when planning to use this plant for therapeutic or preventive purposes.

The beneficial properties and contraindications of pharmaceutical chamomile are determined by the substances it contains. The plant is extremely rich in vitamins: it contains vitamin C, B4, and carotene. Also, chamomile inflorescences and herbs contain many organic acids, glycosides, choline, bitterness, polyacetylenes, essential oil, biologically active chemical compounds (matricin, chamazulene, flavonoids and others).

The healing properties of chamomile are innumerable. It has the following actions:

• Stops inflammation.
• Dilates blood vessels.
• Eliminates spasmodic contractions smooth muscles.
• Renders beneficial influence on the condition of the mucous membranes.
• Suppresses the activity of pathogenic microflora.
• Strengthens the immune system.
• Increases appetite.
• Stops bleeding.

In addition, chamomile decoction or tea has a calming effect, relaxes, and helps cope with stress and insomnia.

Indications

For diseases of the throat, nose, and respiratory tract, you can take decoction or tea orally, use them for inhalation, rinsing, and compresses. The most effective of herbal remedies- chamomile herb. Its medicinal properties are indispensable in the treatment of inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nasopharynx and larynx, provoked by infectious agents.

Chamomile infusions and decoctions should be used from the first hours of illness. The sooner treatment is started, the faster the cure will occur, and the easier the disease will progress.

For colds

At respiratory diseases Chamomile tea will help stop inflammatory process, reduce swelling, relieve headaches, soothe irritated mucous membranes, destroy pathogenic microorganisms. The tea is recommended to be taken orally, used for inhalation and rinsing:

• If you have a cold, you need to prepare a glass of chamomile infusion every day in the morning, and then drink it in 3 doses throughout the day.
• To carry out the inhalation procedure, pour a glass of chamomile tea into a container with hot water, cover your head with a warm blanket and breathe, alternating inhalations through your nose and mouth. It is advisable to carry out the procedure before bedtime.

For sore throat

Gargling with chamomile decoction is a good remedy for sore throat. A glass of boiling water requires a tablespoon of herb. After the broth has infused, it needs to be filtered and then rinsed several times a day.

If the sore throat is follicular, you can mix chamomile and celandine in equal parts, and gargle with a decoction of these two herbs. Celandine will help chamomile in the fight against pustules.

For the flu

Chamomile contains a substance that is a natural antipyretic, that is, an antipyretic. Pour 200 ml of boiling water over a large spoon of herb, leave for a few minutes, and filter. You need to take the product 3 times a day.

To combat influenza viruses, as well as viruses that cause ARVI, you can prepare the following chamomile-based medicinal mixture:

1. Take three parts each of chamomile inflorescences, echinacea herb and eucalyptus leaves, add one part of lavender inflorescences.
2. Pour boiling water over the mixture, leave for a while, strain and take before eating.

This decoction is good for both therapeutic and preventive purposes.

To enhance the antipyretic properties of chamomile, you can add some berries and raspberry leaves to it. After drinking this decoction, you should go to bed and sweat thoroughly.

For tonsillitis

Chamomile in combination with lime color And oak bark perfectly soothes inflamed tonsils. Mix ingredients medicinal mixture should be in the ratio 3:1:2 respectively. The resulting mixture is poured with boiling water, boiled for 5 minutes, infused and filtered. It is useful to add a little honey, after cooling the product a little. It is recommended to gargle with this remedy 3-4 times a day.

For throat diseases

You can relieve a sore throat by gargling with a decoction of chamomile with the addition of alcohol solution Chlorophyllipta. Take a teaspoon of this medicine for one glass of decoction. Carry out the procedure 3 to 5 times a day.

With a runny nose

In the treatment of rhinitis, it is useful to use chamomile lotion on the nose. To prepare, you need to take a small amount of dried herb, add 250 ml of boiling water and wait 5-6 hours. Chamomile should be brewed in a thermos, since the infusion can only be used warm. When the product is infused, you need to soak several layers of gauze with it and apply a compress. It is applied to the bridge of the nose, wings of the nose and areas adjacent to the nose.

If you have a runny nose, you can use chamomile tea to rinse your nose. This procedure will help relieve swelling and inflammation. A small amount of dry herb is poured into 200 ml of boiling water and boiled for about 5 minutes. Before removing the broth from the heat, add a little sea or regular salt.

For bronchitis

One of medicinal properties plants is the ability to dilate blood vessels. This action of chamomile is useful in the treatment of bronchial pathologies, including bronchial asthma.

To enhance the effect of the main component, it is recommended to do herbal infusions from several plants. You need to take chamomile, calendula, aloe and plantain leaves in a ratio of 2:1:1:1, pour a few teaspoons of the resulting mixture with a glass of boiling water, and let it stand for several hours. Drink once every 3-4 hours, 70-80 ml per dose.

For otitis media

Chamomile is great for otitis media. The use of medicinal tinctures is indicated even for children. It is necessary to preheat a metal enameled bowl, put a teaspoon of flowers in it, and add 200 ml of boiling water. The decoction is infused for 15 minutes, then filtered. Use a pipette to drop the lukewarm infusion into the ears, 3 drops three times a day.

Contraindications

Contraindications to chamomile primarily include individual intolerance to the substances included in its composition. If the body reacts inadequately to any of the chemical compounds, present in chamomile flowers or herbs, then taking it can lead to the development of allergies. It is not recommended to use a product based on it if you have any allergies, especially to pollen.

In what other cases should you refuse treatment:

• Contraindications for chamomile treatment include: acute stages all diseases of the digestive tract, a tendency to diarrhea, as well as all kinds of mental disorders.
• Ingestion of chamomile tea is not recommended for women expecting a baby. They can provoke negative processes in the body of the woman and the unborn child, and in the first trimester even lead to spontaneous abortion.
• If a woman has heavy and painful periods, taking chamomile may make the situation worse.
• If chamomile is used for treatment, then contraindications include the use of chemically synthesized sedatives, as well as diuretics. Chamomile herb has both a calming and diuretic effect, so combination with other drugs that have the same properties can lead to negative consequences for the body.
• If a person has kidney or bladder diseases and has been recommended to use chamomile to treat other diseases, then you need to discuss its use and contraindications with your doctor. For such diseases, you can use chamomile infusions, but only with the permission of a doctor and under his strict supervision.

Chamomile tea or decoction helps to quickly cure colds and helps the body fight infection and inflammation. This remedy can cope even with complicated diseases of the throat and nasopharynx, and often allows you to do without the use of antibiotics.

Once you know what chamomile helps with and how many diseases it can cure, you shouldn’t start drinking several cups of it every day. Like any medicine, chamomile should not be consumed constantly, haphazardly and uncontrollably. Long or overuse Ingestion of this plant may cause negative health effects. Everything is beneficial to the body, but only in moderation.