BY E.TORRES 1/15/2000
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile Tea Introduction
Chamomile or camomile is a common name for several daisy-like plants. These plants are best known for their ability to be made into a tea which is commonly used to help with sleep and is often served with either honey or lemon. Chrysin, a specific flavonoid found in chamomile, has been shown to be anxiolytic in rodents and is believed to be at least partially responsible for chamomile's reputation as a sleep aid.
Chamomile tea is a well-known herbal tea that has medicinal values. It is known for its fruity flavor that often reminds one of apples. Chamomile tea has the capacity to soothe a person down and act as a muscle relaxant as well as a mild sedative.
Varieties of Chamomile Tea
The two essential varieties of chamomile are the Roman and German varieties. Both contain essential oils and anti-oxidants that help the body relax and recover from physical fatigue.
Roman Chamomile |
History of Chamomile Tea
The name Chamomile comes from the Greek word meaning "ground apple." Its history dates back at least to ancient Egypt, where Chamomile tea was prescribed as a cold remedy. The Romans enjoyed it as a beverage, as well as an incense. Ironically, the name "Roman Chamomile" by which it is sometimes known, does not stem from this time. It rather comes from an arbitrary naming of the herb in the 19th Century by a botanist who happened to find some growing in the Roman Coliseum.
Chamomile Tea Health Benefits
Chamomile Tea |
How to Make Chamomile Tea
- Take a saucepan in which you would usually make tea. Pour some water in it and set to boil. Meanwhile, rinse and clean the chamomile flowers in cold running water.
- When the water boils, put in some flowers (2-3 teaspoons for every cup of water) and allow to boil. It makes no difference whether the flowers are fresh or dry.
- Stop heating when the flowers leave out their fragrance and color. Strain the liquid in a cup, to avoid any petals falling in. Add white sugar or honey according to taste. Let the tea cool down a bit and then enjoy drinking it slowly.
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.
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