Chamomile beyond tea: A home remedy for stress and digestion

Chamomile is a versatile medicinal herb that can help with various issues, from digestive problems to stress and insomnia. Its natural benefits make it a valuable asset in any home medicine cabinet. To enjoy its advantages, try making a chamomile cocktail instead of the standard tea.

Chamomile is commonly used to soothe stomach troubles. Its components, like bisabolol and matricin, have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic qualities, which can ease muscle spasms and discomfort in the digestive system. Chamomile consumption is recommended for conditions like bloating, indigestion, or stomach lining inflammation.

Chamomile is best known as a traditional remedy for stress. It acts as a relaxant, reduces nervous tension, and makes it easier to fall asleep. Apigenin, one of chamomile's active compounds, targets GABA receptors in the brain, potentially enhancing feelings of relaxation and calmness.

However, chamomile might not be suitable for everyone. Those allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family, such as marigolds or calendula, could have an allergic reaction. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting chamomile, especially if you're pregnant, nursing, or taking blood-thinning medication.

This cocktail's effectiveness comes from using the whole chamomile flower, not just an infusion. This drink is ideally made with fresh chamomile flowers. You can find them growing wild in fields, along roads, and in meadows, blooming from May to July—the perfect time to gather these valuable blooms. This cocktail can also be made with dried flowers, ensuring you use entire flower heads, not just pieces.

Don't be alarmed; a chamomile cocktail is simply a blend of the herb with fruit. The basic recipe involves blending three bananas, eight fresh or dried chamomile flowers, and about half a cup of water. Blend until smooth and consume as needed. You can adjust the cocktail to suit your taste, but avoid adding dairy products, as they can interfere with the action of flavonoids found in chamomile.