Chamomile flowers can be drunk as tea. Fragrant chamomile tea: the benefits and harms of a gentle drink

People are always drawn to nature, they want not only to admire its beauties, but also to enjoy all the benefits that it gives to a person. Among these gifts there is a wonderful plant - chamomile. A modest flower that grows not only in meadows, but also on a dusty roadside, is a storehouse of priceless raw materials. Chamomile tea has been known for its healing and flavoring properties since ancient times. Both adults and children drink it. He helped many, healing from diseases, restoring beauty and health.

Learning how to brew chamomile

Important! Chamomile is not subject to boiling, so that its magical properties are not lost.

Chamomile tea should be drunk warm. If you are not satisfied with the taste of the broth, honey, granulated sugar or aromatic herbs (mint, lemon balm, valerian) are added if desired. Everything will depend on the desired effect. .

How often can you drink chamomile tea? The optimal volume is 4 glasses per day. Still, this is a drug with certain properties. It is especially recommended to do this an hour after a hearty lunch.

You can buy tea bags in any pharmacy. . The bagged form eliminates the traditional brewing procedure, saving a significant amount of time. But the packaging may contain various additives and flavorings, which already excludes the naturalness of the product. It is best to buy flowers in bulk with an expiration date on the package.

Useful properties of tea

It is simply amazing how chamomile herbal tea has a huge range of applications:

• used in the form of compresses for conjunctivitis
• helps to strengthen the immune system and fights colds thanks to vitamin C and ascorbic acid, which are contained in dried flowers . If seasonal colds are protracted and regular, then it is necessary to include tea from chamomile flowers in the diet. , and drink it all year round. If, nevertheless, the disease has won, then chamomile tea will help out here too - it will alleviate the pain in the throat, lower the temperature.
• Chamomile tea is absolutely indispensable for the stomach. It will treat chronic gastritis, and relieve colic and bloating in the intestines after a festive feast
• Chamomile tea helps with cystitis, reduces pain in pyelonephritis, because. it contains flavonoids and azulenes, which have an antibacterial effect
• chamomile tea relaxes the nervous system, helping to get rid of stress
• also, chamomile tea can cleanse the liver to a certain extent. Therefore, it is drunk by those who eat fatty and heavy foods, abuse alcohol or take a lot of medications.
• this decoction reduces the possibility of erosion of the stomach wall and helps restore its microflora
• how to make chamomile tea is known to many women who take the drink during critical days to reduce pain, as well as as home cosmetics
• chamomile tea is an excellent antispasmodic, so it is recommended to take it for headaches that are caused by a drop in blood pressure or changes in weather conditions, if there is discomfort in the stomach and menstrual pain
• experts say that chamomile tea has a sufficient choleretic effect and relieves kidney and gallbladder stones

Contraindications

Like any drink, chamomile tea equally has both positive qualities and certain contraindications.

• Allergies and indigestion have been reported.
• It is forbidden to take sedatives and diuretics at the same time. Chamomile infusion has similar properties, so if you mix sedatives, antidepressants and diuretics, an overdose can occur.

This is where all contraindications end.

Chamomile and children

Can children drink chamomile? This question is very relevant among parents. Of course you can. The composition of children's tea is somewhat different from that of an adult, but the problems to be solved are the same:

• Getting rid of colic and flatulence
• An antiviral agent that is used for dysbacteriosis
• Normalization of sleep and removal of excitability in very active children
• With a cold, a decrease in sore throat, a decrease in temperature

During pregnancy, expectant mothers should drink a chamomile drink with caution (no more than 1 cup per day). Chamomile actively releases estrogen, which can lead to miscarriage.

Chamomile tea for weight loss

Attention! Those who want to lose weight should understand why chamomile tea is drunk. By itself, this flower will not burn body fat. Reasonable diet and exercise is essential.

And chamomile tea for weight loss will only promote weight loss.

So, how to properly prepare chamomile tea and take it?

• Chamomile flowers should be infused for 10 minutes and drink the infusion warm before meals, because. chamomile helps produce stomach acid that promotes weight loss
• Before going to bed, you should drink a cup of chamomile tea for weight loss in order to sleep soundly and calmly. Lack of healthy sleep interferes with insulin production and weight gain occurs
• With stress or anxiety, you should also drink tea with chamomile. Stress affects the hormonal system, which leads to weight gain
• Before including a chamomile drink in a weight loss program, you need to make sure that there are no contraindications for taking it.

Chamomile with milk

It has long been proven that milk in its natural form is not healthy for humans. But if proteins and fats of vegetable origin are mixed with proteins and fats of milk, then you get a biological complex that is extremely useful for the human body. In addition, the dairy product neutralizes caffeine, which irritates the stomach lining. Accordingly, chamomile tea with milk has a beneficial effect on the digestive tract.

In some diets for losing weight, it is described in detail how to brew chamomile, and then add milk and bee honey to the infusion.

It has long been proven that, despite the unpretentious appearance and wide distribution, chamomile flowers have a number of beneficial properties for humans. And their competent use as an aid helps in the treatment of many diseases.

Having in its composition, this plant has the following effect on the human body:

• anti-inflammatory;
• painkiller;
• soothing;
• diaphoretic;
• antibacterial;
• choleretic;
• cleansing;
• diuretic.

With such a wide range of effects, this flower is not only often used as a daily prophylactic and tonic, but also used in the treatment of various ailments.

Chamomile is effective for:

• colds (tonsillitis, acute respiratory infections, acute respiratory viral infections, influenza);
• diseases of the digestive system;
• liver diseases;
• toothache;
• inflammation of the mucous membranes;
• joint problems.

Chamomile promotes healing of the whole organism, normalizes digestion and soothes, it is also effective as a means for losing weight.

The plant is able to have a fairly powerful effect on many body systems, so you should not drink drinks based on it too often, even if you drink them only for preventive purposes.

Also, before brewing chamomile, you need to familiarize yourself with all possible restrictions and contraindications to its use.

• plant intolerance or allergy to it;
• anacid gastritis caused by a lack of hydrochloric acids;
• taking homeopathic and sedative drugs, diuretics and blood-thinning drugs;
• tendency to diarrhea;
• severe mental disorders.

Chamomile tea should be used with caution when:

• kidney and bladder problems.

Recipes for every day

Chamomile tea, if properly prepared and consumed in moderation, will prevent colds and restore calmness after a busy day. It is better to drink it at night.
You can prepare such tea according to one of the following recipes:

Chamomile tea "Classic"

• chamomile inflorescences - 1 tbsp. l.;
• boiling water - 200 ml;
• honey optional.

1. pour dried and crushed flowers with boiling water, cover and leave for half an hour;
2. when the necessary time has passed, strain the infusion, squeezing out the raw materials;
3. if necessary, sweeten with honey. Drink warm.

With mint

You will need:

• chamomile inflorescences - 1 tsp (with a slide);
• peppermint leaves - 0.5 tsp;
• boiling water - 200 ml;
• honey - to taste.

Cooking:

1. pour herbs (dried and chopped) with hot water and, covered, leave for 10-15 minutes;
2. clean the infusion from raw materials by straining;
3. honey can be added if desired.

Green tea with chamomile

You will need:

• 1 tsp placers of green tea;
• 1 tsp chamomile flowers;
• a glass of boiling water;
• honey and lemon - optional.

Cooking:

1. brew tea and flowers and insist 10-15 minutes;
2. if desired, the evening drink can be supplemented with honey, and the morning drink can be combined with lemon.

Chamomile for colds

Due to the pronounced anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile and the vitamin C contained in its composition, decoctions and infusions based on this plant are widely used for colds. They can be both taken orally and used topically, preventing a cold from developing.

"No cold!"

Such a drink helps well at the first signs of diseases, quickly eliminating them. The most effective bite.
Take:

• chamomile inflorescences -1 tbsp;
• lime blossom - 1 tbsp. l.;
• boiling water - 200 ml.

How to cook:

1. pour the collection with freshly boiled water and hold for 30 minutes;
2. strain, squeezing raw materials.

Three times a day, drink a third of a glass or use it to gargle.

Gargling with chamomile

With sore throat and sore throat, rinsing with chamomile-based products helps well.

Recipe #1

• chamomile (flowers) - 3 tablespoons;
• a glass of boiling water.

1. pour flowers with hot water and warm for 20 minutes in a water bath;
2. cool and remove raw materials by straining.

Use the remedy 3-4 times a day. Store no more than a day.

For weight loss

Having a beneficial effect on the metabolism in the body, as well as providing a moderate diuretic effect, properly prepared chamomile tea promotes weight loss. But losing weight with chamomile is possible only if you follow a diet and exercise. Tea is only part of the overall package of measures.

Herbal tea "Down with kilograms"

By speeding up the metabolism and cleansing the body, chamomile, in combination with other beneficial herbs, will help you lose up to 4 extra pounds per month.

To prepare a drink for weight loss based on herbs, you can use one of the following recipes.

Recipe 1

Prepare the collection by taking:

• 2 tbsp. l. peppermint and oregano leaves;
• 1 st. l. , senna, chamomile and motherwort;
• 1.5 st. l. cranberries and rose hips;
• 1 tsp (without a slide) yarrow, kelp, calendula, succession and dandelion.

Mix all herbs thoroughly. It is better to store them in an opaque container.

To prepare tea for weight loss, you need to put a tablespoon of herbs in a thermos and brew 200 ml of boiled water. Let it brew for 4 hours. Drink before meals (30 minutes) half a glass of infusion.

Recipe 2

You will need:

• chamomile, birch buds, immortelle and in equal proportions.

Prepare a drink by pouring 200 ml of boiled water into 1 tablespoon of the collection (table). Tea can be brewed in a thermos or cooked in a water bath, boiling the broth for 15 minutes. Drink before meals (30 minutes) half a glass in the morning and evening.

With lemon and chamomile for weight loss

Have to take:

• chamomile - 1 tbsp. l.;
• boiling water - 200 ml;
• half a lemon.

Pour boiling water over the flowers and keep in a thermos or boil for 15 minutes in a water bath. Squeeze lemon juice into the prepared broth. Drink before meals (30 minutes) three times a day for half a glass. In combination with lemon, chamomile has a powerful cleansing effect on the body, thanks to which you can easily get rid of a couple of extra pounds.

Having many properties, properly prepared chamomile-based drinks can have a versatile effect on the body. They are effective as a general tonic and sedative, in weight loss, in the fight against colds and other diseases. But before using chamomile infusions for any purpose, you need to familiarize yourself with the contraindications to their use and consult your doctor.

photo: depositphotos.com/metrs, kozirsky, Olyina, nevodka

Behind the modest charm of this radiant flower lies a huge benefit for the human body. Our most distant ancestors knew about this and skillfully used the healing properties of chamomile. The rapid development of the pharmaceutical industry, however, did not affect the popularity of the plant.

Extracts, infusions and other preparations from chamomile are used both independently and are part of complex collections, balms and elixirs. But there is a remedy that can be prepared at home in just a few minutes, and it will bring benefits like a whole arsenal of medicines. We are talking about chamomile tea, simple and pleasant, familiar from early childhood. .

What are the benefits of chamomile tea?

To understand the secret mechanism of the beneficial effects of chamomile tea on our organs and systems, it is necessary to evaluate the chemical composition of chamomile. It is very extensive:

• ascorbic acid;
• coumarin;
• chrysin;
• pectin;
• carotene;
• tannins;
• essential oils;
• macro- and microelements (magnesium, potassium, iron, calcium, zinc, manganese, copper);
• vitamins A, C, D;
• glycine and other beneficial amino acids.

But the main active ingredient is apigenin. , which is known for its anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, and most importantly, the ability to suppress free radicals and certain types of cancer cells. It is the pharmacy chamomile that contains more apiginine than any other plant suitable for oral administration.

Other components are also important and useful. Removal of spasms is the merit of glycine. This amino acid has a relaxing effect on the muscles. Chrysin is excellent for calming, relieving panic attacks, reducing anxiety and helping to cope with insomnia. Coumarin relieves swelling and manifestations of allergies, and also thins the blood. By the way, chamomile owes its tart aroma to this substance.

The well-known ascorbic acid is an organic antioxidant and immune response enhancer, promotes digestion and prevention of gallstones. Tannins enhance the digestive effect of ascorbic acid, in addition, they are detrimental to harmful microorganisms and decay products and prevent the deposition of salts of heavy metals. Pectin also contributes to the cleansing of the body: it removes toxins and radioactive elements without suppressing the natural microflora.

Carotene is involved in the processes of cell renewal, therefore it slows down aging, promotes the formation of bones and teeth, and activates the immune system. Essential oils complete the composition with their antispasmodic, soothing and bactericidal effects.

Thanks to this set of advantages, the benefits of herbal tea from fragrant flowers are multifaceted. When used systematically, it acts as:

• antiviral, antibacterial and antiseptic;
• analgesic and anti-inflammatory;
• antispasmodic and anticonvulsant;
• diaphoretic and choleretic;
• depressant.

What health problems does chamomile tea solve?

A wide range of medicinal properties makes chamomile tea healing for:

• gastrointestinal tract;
• upper respiratory tract and ENT organs;
• oral cavity;
• nervous system.

With symptoms of gastrointestinal problems - gastritis, colitis, stomach or duodenal ulcers, pancreatitis, poisoning and rotavirus infections - chamomile will relieve cramps, bloating and heartburn. This herb has an enveloping effect on the stomach and promotes the breakdown of food, heals small wounds and ulcers on the mucous membrane. Chamomile is beneficial for the liver with its ability to improve the outflow of bile and remove toxins, so it can even alleviate a hangover.

Many who are faced with an intestinal infection are wondering whether chamomile strengthens or weakens with diarrhea. It turns out that it depends on the dosage when brewing. That is, a relatively strong decoction will help defeat diarrhea, and a weak one - on the contrary. When liquefying the stool in adults, pour two tablespoons of dried flowers with a liter of boiling water and leave for about an hour (it’s even better to add a teaspoon of dried mint here). During the day, drink the entire amount received. With constipation, chamomile will help if the color of the tea is light yellow, for this the dosage should be halved.

With pancreatitis, a decoction of chamomile can for some time replace powerful synthetic drugs that are difficult to tolerate by the body, and can also be used in the complex treatment of this complex disease.

Antiseptic chamomile decoctions and infusions are indispensable for inflammations and infections of the mouth, throat and upper respiratory tract: stomatitis (thrush), tonsillitis, pharyngitis, laryngotracheitis - both as a drink and rinsing, as well as inhalations. With bronchopulmonary diseases, taking this tea, especially with linden petals or sage, will help get rid of a painful cough. Colds, accompanied by chills, high fever and other manifestations of intoxication with chamomile tea will be much easier, because it contains hippurate - an organic immunostimulant and antiseptic. It is even more useful to drink chamomile with ginger, lemon, honey.

Frayed nerves will return to normal with the regular intake of herbal tea - both mono-component and in the collection. Warm tea with chamomile strengthens the nerves, helps with migraine headaches, soothes, relaxes, creates a feeling of comfort. And if you take a cup at night, you can forget about insomnia and disturbing dreams, especially if you light an aromatic candle with lavender oil in the bedroom in addition.

In addition to all of the above, brewed chamomile speeds up the metabolism, which will please those who are losing weight, and also helps to cleanse the face of acne, if you take the decoction inside and wipe your face with it several times a day. Chamomile during menstruation will soothe spastic pains and improve the general condition. So for a woman it is a real elixir of youth and beauty.

Contraindications and side effects

Hypotension patients should remember: chamomile tea is not able to greatly, but still reduce pressure. It is not recommended to combine chamomile together with sedatives and diuretics, as well as blood-thinning anticoagulants. Herbal tea in this case will enhance the effect of medicines.

ATTENTION: An overdose of chamomile is also possible and causes symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and tachycardia. The optimal dosage for long-term use is one to two cups per day. It is extremely rare, but still there is an allergic reaction to chamomile, as well as its individual intolerance.

Chamomile tea while expecting a baby

Immunity in pregnant women tends to decrease, and then the body becomes vulnerable to viruses, especially during the season of infections. At the same time, not all medicines can be taken by pregnant women. And then chamomile decoction will come to the rescue - like tea and as a gargle for the throat. And in the early stages of pregnancy, it will also help with toxicosis. But more than one cup a day should not be taken: in the first trimester, the active ingredients of tea can increase the tone of the uterus and create a risk of miscarriage, and in the later stages, provoke an allergy in a future newborn.

Is it possible for a nursing mother to take chamomile, the pediatrician will decide. A contraindication for breastfeeding can only be the predisposition of the child or the mother herself to allergies. In other cases, doctors themselves recommend herbal teas instead of green and black teas, which soothe, restore strength to the body, and improve lactation.

Chamomile tea for children

The riddle about chamomile has been familiar to us since childhood: “At the forest gatehouse
the sun stands on its feet." Also, from an early age, many remember the taste and aroma of the decoction of this solar decoction. Therefore, young mothers are often interested in whether it is possible to give chamomile tea to a newborn. Pediatricians recommend a decoction of chamomile to children to eliminate intestinal colic, gum disease during teething and general anxiety. But on your own, without consulting a doctor, you should not give chamomile to children up to a year old, especially newborns under the age of 6 months. For babies, the benefits and harms are individual and are determined by the answer to the question of whether there may be an allergy to herbal tea. It is worth considering the possible side effects when interacting with synthetic drugs.

In the vast majority of cases, in reasonable doses - up to 50 ml per day in the ratio of one teaspoon of dried flowers per liter of water - chamomile is easily tolerated by even the smallest children's body and is often used for various inflammatory processes and just to calm down. In pharmacies and stores, it is easy to find ready-made children's tea bags with the right dosage of such well-known brands as Hipp, Baby, Grandmother's basket.

Chamomile for older children, at school age, helps to cope with overwork and improves sleep when taking a cup at night, and in the morning, on the contrary, it helps to concentrate. The dosage at this age is up to 100 ml.

Where to get chamomile for tea?

The easiest way is to buy dried chamomile in the nearest pharmacy. Flowers are sold loose in packs, and crushed in bags convenient for quick brewing. Another option is the market, where herbal grandmothers sell a wide variety of plant materials.

But it’s better, of course, to find time on one of the summer days, make a trip to the forest with the whole family and pick daisies and other useful herbs with your own hands. So you will be sure of the quality and hygienic purity of the collected flowers. After all, you will definitely choose a meadow for this as far as possible from the highways. The main thing is not to confuse the pharmacy chamomile with other types of this plant. The pharmacy has small white petals and a convex core, and the leaves look like dill. It should be harvested at the height of flowering, when the petals are in a strictly horizontal position, the flowers should be dried in a ventilated place, protected from direct sunlight, in a thin layer, stirring regularly.

Ready-made chamomile tea can be found on the shelves of most stores. It is packaged in sachets and is ideal for quick brewing. For example, chamomile Greenfield, Althaus, Evalar and others. But of course, tea, carefully and leisurely brewed with your own hands, will bring maximum benefit and real pleasure. This process can be turned into one of your favorite family rituals. After all, it is so nice to get together over a cup of tea.

How to make the healthiest chamomile tea?

For adults, chamomile tea for health problems is effective to drink half a glass on an empty stomach 20 minutes before each meal without sugar. For preventive purposes, you can drink one or two cups daily, this dosage is completely safe. But periodically you need to take breaks in the reception for a couple of weeks.

Various additives will help diversify tea drinking and bring even more benefits. It can be, for example, soothing lemon balm, mint, sage. Herbal compositions are very diverse - it's a matter of taste and medical indications.

Like regular black or green tea, chamomile goes well with lemon, ginger, milk, honey, and even a bite of biscuits. At the same time, unlike tea or coffee, such a drink does not contain caffeine and other, not the most useful substances.

Fragrant chamomile tea can be brewed both in a glass and in a teapot at the rate of 1 tablespoon per 250 ml of boiling water. After 20 minutes, you can enjoy a pleasant tart taste and feel how peace and strength are added with every sip for new achievements.

Many have heard about the benefits of chamomile. It contains vitamins and other useful substances. But, unfortunately, most do not know what to do with it and how to use it. Chamomile is consumed internally and used for external purposes (rinse hair, face). In this issue, we will talk specifically about the internal use in the form of tea and everything you need to know about its preparation and properties.

What is chamomile tea? Beneficial features

Indications for use

The most famous and common way to use chamomile tea is against colds. Tea has anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, so at the first signs of the disease (headache, fever, etc.), it is recommended to drink chamomile tea.

Tea drink warm with the addition honey, sugar, milk or no additives. Chamomile tea relieves fatigue and headaches, helps fight infection, and has a diaphoretic effect.

Also chamomile tea gargle with tonsillitis and other inflammatory processes in the throat, because chamomile is an excellent antiseptic, relieves inflammation, soothes irritated tissues.

Chamomile tea is recommended for those who suffer from gas and bloating. Chamomile reduces gas formation, normalizes the work of the gastrointestinal tract. Removes excess acid from the stomach, so chamomile tea is indicated for use by people who have disorders, spasms And stomach ulcers.

Chamomile acts gently, does not harm the liver, but rather cleanses it. It normalizes digestion, removes toxins from the intestines, cleanses it. Chamomile tea is used for diarrhea, it has a slight astringent property.

Chamomile tea is very relaxing and soothing, so drink it when stressed, irritability. Tea is shown to people who suffer from insomnia. Before going to bed, you need to drink chamomile tea with a spoonful of honey. This infusion will calm you down and you will be able to fall asleep easily. It has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, calms it and relieves stress.

Chamomile tea helps with migraines and headaches. The active substances that chamomile is rich in fight headaches, relieve spasms and give clarity.

Chamomile tea drunk in the morning on an empty stomach, returns beauty And skin freshness. Useful substances (vitamins, macro- and microelements) have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the intestines, remove toxins, purify the blood, thereby significantly skin condition improves.

Infusions and decoctions of chamomile (tea) are widely used in home cosmetology. They rinse their hair, wash their face, wipe inflammation on the skin. They make lotions for dry skin of hands and feet, as chamomile has a softening effect.

Chamomile tea will be indispensable after a good Nordic walking session or an intense jog. It will partially restore your strength and energize you. And if you are not a fan of outdoor activities, then you may be interested in yoga, which you can learn about here http://www.davajpohudeem.com/uprazhneniya/domashnie/joga/kompleks-dlya-poxudeniya.html

Drinking chamomile tea during pregnancy

There is a lot of controversy among experts about chamomile tea for pregnant women. Most people think that chamomile tea is undesirable for pregnant women, because chamomile promotes the release of estrogen, which can lead to miscarriage.

If a woman cannot deny herself an herbal drink, it should be used with extreme caution. Tea should be brewed at a low concentration and not drunk more than 1 cup per day.

Newborn babies are not recommended to use chamomile inside. But from a decoction of flowers, you can make baths, rinses, etc.

Contraindications for use

How to drink tea

Chamomile tea is drunk warm (not hot) like any other tea. Sugar, honey, milk or cream can be added to brewed tea. Useful properties will not be lost, but the taste will improve, because chamomile tea itself has a specific taste. Also chamomile flowers can be added to black or green tea and use such tea, and not only in its pure form.

Chamomile tea is recommended no more than 4 cups per day, after all, this is a medicinal plant with certain properties, so they should not be abused. It is undesirable to drink tea if you are using sedatives. Otherwise, there are no restrictions on the use of herbal chamomile tea.

Best to use it after meal, but not earlier than after 60 minutes, it normalizes digestion, eliminates gas formation.

How to harvest and dry chamomile

If you prefer to collect chamomile and dry it yourself, you should know a few rules. First of all, you should know that there are not only pharmacy chamomile, but also other species, so you should clearly understand what the plant you need looks like.

Gather flowers in summer. They are grown in ecologically clean areas (farther from roads and production). Only flowers should be plucked, leaves and stem for herbal collection are not suitable.

After you collect the chamomile, it should be dried. Dry the chamomile in clean and ventilated areas. Spread the flowers on clean paper and cover with a clean and dry towel (you can use paper) on top, this is necessary in order to avoid getting drunk and dirt.

After a few days, the flowers will dry, they should fold into a paper bag or box and store in a dry place.

How to choose the right chamomile when buying

If you buy fresh flowers, pay attention to their condition, the color of the leaves and the flower itself, they should be pronounced, without a dusty coating. Leaves and flowers must be intact, unspoiled by pests.

Chamomile can also be bought at a pharmacy. When choosing chamomile, look at the packing date And shelf life. Pay attention to the tightness of the package that contains the flowers.

Chamomile tea can rightfully be called a healing drink. When used correctly, it helps to overcome many ailments, calms the nervous system. Can diversify the usual tea drinking.

Chamomile has numerous medicinal properties and is used for a number of diseases. The healing properties of this plant are due to the content of a large amount of essential oils, bitterness, gums, sugars. In addition, chamomile contains natural nicotinic, ascorbic and salicylic acids, which have anti-inflammatory effects. In folk medicine, chamomile infusion is widely used to treat various diseases.

You will need

1. - 1 tablespoon of dry raw chamomile;
2. - 1 glass of boiling water;
3. - sieve for straining.

Instruction

1. Chamomile infusion is used as an anti-inflammatory, hemostatic, antiseptic, astringent, analgesic, diaphoretic and choleretic action. It also has anticonvulsant, sedative and antiallergic effects.
2. The pharmaceutical industry produces a wide range of chamomile-based medicines. They are widely used for the treatment of asthmatic diseases, diseases of the liver, gallbladder and biliary tract, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, colitis, cystitis, neuritis and gynecological diseases. In addition, pharmacy chamomile helps to overcome cravings for tobacco and caffeine.
3. Only environmentally friendly raw materials that have passed radiation control and have a quality certificate can be used for infusions. Chamomile grown in adverse conditions can be harmful to health. Also, one should not forget that plant raw materials have a strong effect and its overdose can cause nausea, headache, intoxication and other undesirable consequences. Chamomile infusion increases estrogen levels and is strictly contraindicated in people with elevated estrogen levels and pregnant women, since an increase in this hormone can provoke a miscarriage.
4. To prepare an infusion of chamomile, pour 1 tablespoon of raw materials with one glass of boiling water, leave for 1 hour, strain. Take half a glass 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals. This infusion can not only be used for internal use, but also for gargling with sore throat, lotions for skin diseases, in the form of enemas and for douching with gynecological disorders.
5. Also camomile can be used in combination with other medicinal herbs. A collection of herbs containing chamomile can be purchased at any pharmacy.

Is it possible to drink chamomile during pregnancy?

Among medicinal plants, the most popular, perhaps, is the pharmacy chamomile. This flower has extremely useful properties and is used in folk medicine for the prevention and treatment of various diseases. In particular, many people use decoctions and infusions of this plant to combat gynecological ailments, diseases of the digestive tract, dental diseases, and in other situations.

In addition, chamomile tea, unlike many other traditional medicines, has a pleasant taste and aroma, so it does not cause disgust, and it can be drunk for a long time. While waiting for a baby, expectant mothers are often concerned about the question of whether it is possible to drink a decoction and infusion of chamomile during pregnancy, and whether the flowers of this plant will harm an unborn baby. In this article, we will try to figure it out.

Can you drink chamomile during pregnancy?

When asked whether it is possible to drink tea with chamomile during pregnancy, most doctors answer positively, however, at the same time they clarify that it is categorically not recommended to abuse this medicinal plant. This is due to the fact that the internal intake of chamomile decoction stimulates additional production of estrogen in the ovaries. For women in an “interesting” position, an excess of these hormones can be dangerous, because under unfavorable circumstances it can cause an increase in uterine tone, which can provoke a miscarriage or the onset of premature birth.

However, moderate consumption of tea made from dried chamomile flowers is safe and beneficial throughout pregnancy. In order not to overdo it with the amount of this drink, strictly follow all the recommendations of your doctor, and in their absence, limit yourself to two glasses of medicinal tea per day. Also, pregnant women can use the infusion of chamomile flowers without any special fears, except when this remedy is prepared with alcohol.

Useful properties of medicines based on pharmaceutical chamomile

Thus, if you do not exceed the dosage of chamomile decoction or infusion prescribed by the doctor, you can derive significant benefits from this plant for the body of the expectant mother. In particular, any drug based on chamomile flowers has the following beneficial effects:

Although pharmacy chamomile is one of the most effective and, at the same time, safe medicinal plants, it must be taken quite seriously. Use decoctions and infusions of this flower only in situations where there are strong indications for this, and do not abuse these healing fluids. In addition, before using any traditional medicine and, in particular, pharmacy chamomile, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

Chamomile is one of the most famous and popular medicinal plants. Surely everyone heard about its beneficial properties from their parents, and they - from their grandparents. Mankind has long known the healing power of chamomile, its calming effect on the human body. Therefore, since the most ancient times, healers and experts in traditional medicine have been using this plant to help recover from an illness, restore strength, vigor and calm a person if he is upset or nervous.

Already later, in the 20th century, scientists were able to find out the secret thanks to which chamomile has such wonderful properties. The reason for everything is its unique composition, which includes a variety of chemical elements. Truly in ideal proportions, chamomile combines bisabolol oxide, cadinene, farnesene, coumarin, choline, essential oil, polysaccharides, phytosterol, as well as noyl and isovalent organic acids. And thanks to the flavonoids in its composition (quercetin, aigenin, luteolin), chamomile exhibits both antibacterial and antiviral properties.

The most important thing is that now it is not at all necessary to collect chamomile in order to take advantage of all its wonderful properties, you just need to buy it at a pharmacy.

What are the benefits of decoctions and tea from chamomile?

This flower is used in the treatment of colds and flu, and its essential oil copes well with fermentation in the intestines, disinfects, anesthetizes, and has diaphoretic properties. Chamomile also has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the kidneys and liver.

The main medicinal properties of medicinal chamomile can be considered:

• Anti-inflammatory;
• Spasmolytic;
• Carminative.

Chamomile improves digestion, removes slags and toxins from the body, perfectly helps in the treatment of acute inflammation (ulcers) of the stomach, even in a chronic form, since it not only relieves symptoms, but also heals its walls. However, chamomile only really benefits with long-term use, and the therapeutic effect is fully achieved after 2-3 months of consistent use. Also, chamomile does a great job with diseases such as colitis, in particular, it relieves colic in the intestines.

For its sedative properties, chamomile is recommended for convulsions, sleep disorders, increased excitability, nervous disorders, neuralgia, toothache, and also for painful menstruation. In addition to tea, infusions and decoctions of this herb are also used.

Other useful properties of chamomile can be viewed on the video

How to brew chamomile?

Chamomile can be brewed for different purposes, but it is important to remember one thing: decoction chamomile is usually used for external use, and any flower will do; A infusion- for oral administration and for it, you can use only one type of chamomile, namely pharmacy. How to distinguish types of chamomile from each other,.

To prepare an infusion of chamomile, it is enough to pour boiling water over the flowers and leave for a while (from 5 to 30 minutes). After that, it is enough to strain it through gauze or a tea strainer and the infusion is ready.

A decoction of chamomile can be made in different ways:

1. It is enough to pour dry flowers with boiling water in any container and wait about an hour. After that, you can use it for its intended purpose.
2. Method 2 is suitable if you want to make a strong decoction: take more flowers and less water. Place the container with them in a water bath and hold for about half an hour. Then you can filter it through cheesecloth, and if desired, dilute it with a little water.
3. Pour flowers into an enameled pot or plate, pour water and put on a slow fire. Just wait until the broth boils and shoot.

Ordinary chamomile flower tea

Chamomile thyme tea

Chamomile and calendula

Chamomile will also be a good remedy for healing the skin. In particular, herbalists often prescribe washing the face with chamomile to keep the skin in good shape, and in order to strengthen the hair, it is advised to wash them with a decoction every day. Moreover, chamomile has been used in perfumery and cosmetics for many years.

Chamomile decoctions are great for cosmetic purposes and will benefit your skin:

1. It will help soften the skin, lighten it a little, remove blackheads and loosen clogged pores. To do this, you need to pour boiling water over the flowers and boil for several minutes, and then apply the infusion with cotton pads or a soft cloth on your face.
2. To cleanse oily or dry skin, you need to boil the chamomile decoction for about 15 minutes. After that, cover your heads with a towel and hold your face for the same amount of time over the evaporating infusion.
3. If you want to remove circles under the eyes, soak some cotton in the infusion and apply it to the eyes. Repeat this procedure several times a day and you will quickly notice the result.

Chamomile decoction for bathing newborns

Unfortunately, modern people are surrounded by many artificial additives and medical preparations that are complex in their structure, which often, in addition to treatment, have negative consequences. Therefore, it is desirable to protect newborns from such substances and use natural preparations for their bathing and treatment, if possible.

Today, even experienced pediatricians advise mothers to bathe a child in a decoction of chamomile flowers, and many mothers note that thanks to such baths, children sleep better and behave calmer. Chamomile relieves all kinds of irritations, inflammations and helps to protect the skin of a newborn baby.

Preparing a healing solution from chamomile is not difficult at all! Take a tablespoon of flowers, pour a liter of boiling water and cover with a lid. The broth will be ready when the chamomile has given up all its beneficial substances - usually you just need to wait until all its flowers themselves settle to the bottom.

After straining the decoction through gauze, you can safely add it to the water, but be careful that the flowers do not get on the sensitive skin of the baby.

Contraindications for the use of chamomile

Despite the many useful and irreplaceable properties of chamomile, it is worth treating its use with caution. It should not be abused and drunk uncontrollably, in large quantities, because with an overdose, all the beneficial effects of its infusions are lost. In addition, in large quantities, it can cause an allergic reaction and headaches.

If you have high acidity or have a predisposition to diarrhea, it is better to refrain from taking it or add fewer flowers than various recipes say. In the end, there are many active active substances in chamomile and an overdose of them can only worsen the condition of the body.

Where and how to collect chamomile?

If you intend to collect chamomile yourself, and not buy ready-made fees from a pharmacy, then you should remember that it has several varieties that can have different effects on the body. For example, if you plan to drink tea or use treated infusions inside, then only pharmacy chamomile is suitable for this, and its odorous variety is best suited for external use.

Only inflorescences (baskets) should be collected, and not the stems themselves, and you can start from May until September. It is advisable to do this in sunny, dry weather. It is also advisable to pluck flowers only from those plants on which they grow horizontally evenly. Those that have begun to sink or have not yet fully opened contain fewer useful active substances. Moreover, if you pick a flower too late, then when dried, it will most likely fall apart and the essential oils will naturally evaporate.

After drying, store chamomile in a container with a tightly closed lid and preferably less than a year.

How to distinguish pharmacy chamomile from field and dog? Medicinal or pharmaceutical chamomile grows mainly on grassy slopes, along roads and paths, in rye fields. Also, some farmers can grow it. Its most important difference is the bottom of the basket, curved (like a pin). It is hollow, and the leaves are small and look more like dill.

In the field and dog chamomile, the bottom is flatter and harder, not at all as hollow as in the medicinal one. In addition, these varieties have a sharp, pronounced smell and are not at all the same as those of the pharmacy.