Mansanilya: 11 Health Benefits of Chamomile, Description, and Side Effects

Chamomile is an herbal plant that is often consumed as a tea rather than as a food, so its nutritional content per 100 grams may not be as commonly reported as for fruits and vegetables. However, chamomile does contain certain nutrients and bioactive compounds. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content of dried chamomile flowers per 100 grams:

• Calories: 1-2 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0.2-0.6 grams
• Protein: 0.2-0.5 grams
• Fat: 0 grams
• Fiber: 0.2-0.6 grams
• Vitamins and minerals: Chamomile is not a significant source of vitamins or minerals but contains trace amounts of various vitamins and minerals.

Remember that chamomile’s nutritional content can vary depending on factors like the growing conditions, drying process, and part of the plant used. Chamomile is primarily consumed for its potential health benefits, attributed to its bioactive compounds like chamazulene, apigenin, and various antioxidants, rather than its macronutrient content. It is often enjoyed as a soothing and caffeine-free herbal tea known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

Chamomile is an herbal plant used for centuries for its medicinal and health benefits. It is most commonly consumed as a tea, but chamomile extracts and essential oils are also used in various forms for their potential therapeutic properties. Here are some of the medicinal and health benefits associated with chamomile:

1. Calming and Sleep Aid: Chamomile tea is well-known for its calming and soothing effects. It can help reduce stress and anxiety, making it a popular choice for promoting better sleep and managing insomnia.
2. Anti-Inflammatory: Chamomile contains compounds like chamazulene and alpha-bisabolol, which have anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used topically or consumed to reduce inflammation and soothe skin irritations.
3. Digestive Health: Chamomile tea can aid digestion by relaxing the gastrointestinal tract muscles. It is often used to relieve indigestion, bloating, gas, and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
4. Anti-Anxiety and Stress Reduction: Drinking chamomile tea may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress due to its calming effects on the nervous system. It can also be used to manage symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder.
5. Skin Health: Chamomile’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties benefit the skin. It can be used to soothe skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne, as well as minor wounds and burns.
6. Oral Health: Chamomile’s antimicrobial properties may help combat bacteria that cause oral health issues. It is sometimes used as a mouthwash or added to toothpaste to promote oral hygiene.
7. Menstrual Pain Relief: Chamomile tea may help alleviate menstrual cramps and discomfort when consumed regularly. Its muscle-relaxant properties can help ease uterine contractions.
8. Immune Support: Chamomile contains antioxidants that can support the immune system by combating free radicals and reducing oxidative stress.
9. Allergy Relief: Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, chamomile may help relieve symptoms of allergies, such as hay fever and skin rashes.
10. Antibacterial and Antifungal: Chamomile has some natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can benefit minor wound care and skin infections.
11. Hair Health: Chamomile extracts and oils are sometimes used in hair care products for their soothing and anti-inflammatory effects on the scalp. When used topically, they may also lighten hair color over time.

While chamomile is generally considered safe, some individuals may be allergic to it. If you have allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family (like ragweed, marigolds, or daisies), you should exercise caution when using chamomile. Additionally, if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have any health concerns, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using chamomile for medicinal purposes.

Chamomile can be consumed and used in various forms, including fresh, dried, as tea, juice, essential oil, and tincture. Here’s how you can cook and consume chamomile in different ways:

1. Chamomile Tea:
   • This is one of the most popular ways to consume chamomile.
   • Use dried chamomile flowers (1-2 teaspoons per cup) or a chamomile tea bag.
   • Boil water and pour it over the chamomile in a cup.
   • Let it steep for about 5-10 minutes.
   • You can sweeten it with honey or add lemon for flavor.
2. Chamomile Juice:
   • Fresh chamomile flowers can be used to make chamomile juice.
   • Harvest the chamomile flowers, rinse them, and remove any stems.
   • Blend the flowers with water, strain the liquid, and add a sweetener, such as honey or sugar, if desired.
   • Serve chilled.
3. Chamomile Tincture:
   • Chamomile tinctures are concentrated extracts of chamomile.
   • You can buy them pre-made or make your own by steeping dried chamomile flowers in alcohol (like vodka) for several weeks and straining them.
   • Tinctures can be added to water or other beverages for consumption.
4. Chamomile Oil:
   • Chamomile essential oil is highly concentrated and should not be ingested directly.
   • It’s primarily used for aromatherapy, massage, and topical applications.
   • If used for aromatherapy, diffuse a few drops in an essential oil diffuser.
   • For massage, dilute a few drops in carrier oil and apply to the skin.
   • Consult a qualified aromatherapist for proper usage instructions.
5. Fresh Chamomile:
   • Fresh chamomile flowers can be used as a garnish or ingredient in salads, desserts, and even savory dishes.
   • They add a mild, floral flavor to dishes.
6. Chamomile Infused Oil:
   • You can make chamomile-infused oil for topical applications or as a massage oil.
   • Fill a glass jar with dried chamomile flowers and cover it with a carrier oil like olive or jojoba oil.
   • Seal the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for a few weeks, shaking it occasionally.
   • Strain the oil and use it as needed.
7. Chamomile Bath:
   • To enjoy the soothing benefits of chamomile, you can add chamomile tea bags or dried chamomile flowers to your bathwater.
   • It can help relax and soothe the skin.
8. Chamomile Capsules or Tablets:
   • Chamomile supplements in the form of capsules or tablets are also available.
   • Follow the dosage instructions on the product label, and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

Remember to consult with a healthcare provider or herbalist before using chamomile for medicinal purposes, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications, to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your specific situation. Additionally, some individuals may be allergic to chamomile, so be cautious if you have a known allergy to plants in the Asteraceae family.