4 Surprising Uses for Chamomile That Go Beyond Relaxation

If you've ever experienced the comfort of a cup of chamomile tea, then you know the leading benefit of this relaxing herb.

For centuries, therapeutic uses for chamomile helped to combat insomnia and ease nerves, and the soothing properties of chamomile can promote a sense of calmness and tranquility. Added to baths, chamomile essential oil is also known to effectively promote relaxation and stress relief before bedtime.

How to Use Chamomile

The most popular ways to reap the calming herb's benefits include via teas, capsules, and essential oil. Other ways to use chamomile include compresses, salves, lotions, and tinctures. However you choose to start embracing it, you will reap more benefits than just the obvious.

There are many other, lesser-known uses for chamomile that just might surprise you, like the four listed below. (Before you begin, though, it's best to check with your doctor or health practitioner to learn if chamomile is safe for you to use, as allergic reactions and medication interactions can occur.)

Stomach Ailments

Ingested in capsule or tea form, chamomile can potentially calm your stomach after eating something that doesn't agree with you. A reliable digestion aid, this multifaceted herb can help treat abdominal ailments ranging from upset stomach and nausea to gastritis and colitis. Chamomile can also relieve flatulence and heartburn due to its ability to soothe the digestive tract.

Skin Issues

Many people are unaware of the fact that the uses for chamomile go well beyond treating insomnia or stress. Did you know that the same soothing properties that calm your nerves could help heal skin conditions as well?

Additionally, chamomile possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in a variety of dermal discomforts. Rashes, eczema, sunburns, insect bites, and other minor skin inflammation issues can all be treated with chamomile lotion, ointment, or essential oil combined with a carrier oil, like jojoba.

Menstrual Cramps

The antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties in chamomile make this herb a helpful remedy for painful menstrual cramps. Sipping chamomile tea throughout the day may alleviate the tension as well as digestive issues often accompanied by menstruation. You may even find it elevates your mood or the headache that PMS sometimes brings.

Headaches

Speaking of headaches, the same properties in chamomile that help alleviate stress and anxiety can also benefit headache sufferers. Drinking chamomile tea throughout the evening can soothe nervous tension, keeping you calm and allowing your headache to dissolve more efficiently. Chamomile essential oil is also useful for headache relief if used as aromatherapy or applied to your forehead and temples with a carrier oil.

What do you like to use chamomile for? What's your favorite benefit? Share your answers with us by tweeting @TomsofMaine.

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