Make therapeutic chamomile tea

How to Make Therapeutic Chamomile Tea

By Sarah Dafoe

Pour some water into a small saucepan and set to boil. Meanwhile, rinse and clean the chamomile flowers in cold running water.

When the water comes to a boil, turn off the element and add in the fresh chamomile flowers (3-5 tablespoons for every 16 ounces of water) cover and steep for 20 minutes.

If working with dry flowers, use half the amount.

Strain the liquid into a cup, add white sugar or honey according to taste as its bitter principles will be present.

This strong preparation is ideal for relaxing muscle tension, soothing acute anxiety and promoting sleep. Chamomile is slightly diuretic though, so it's best not to take it directly before bed.

Chamomile can also be infused into oil by filling a jar 3/4 of the way up with dried flower heads and then adding your choice of oil, (olive oil, sunflower oil, almond oil etc.)

Label with the date and ingredients and leave in a cool dark place for up to 6 weeks, shaking occasionally and removing the lid to release any build up of air. Strain the plant material off and use on the skin as needed, or combine with melted beeswax for a healing salve.

Precautions

Some people have serious allergic reactions (including anaphylaxis) to chamomile.

If you are allergic to other plants in the same family such as daisy, ragweed, aster, chrysanthemum, or marigold you should use caution when using chamomile.

Chamomile should be avoided during pregnancy because it may act as a uterine stimulant and therefore increase the chance of abortion.

People with bleeding disorders or on blood thinners should avoid chamomile, as it contains coumarin and may increase the chance of bleeding.

Sarah Dafoe runs workshops on medicinal plants. www.PlantSpirit Wisdom.com