Chamomile
Chamomile (Matricaria recuitota), also called German Chamomile is a traditional remedy for anxiety, stress, insomnia, headaches, and indigestion. It acts as a nerve tonic and is a useful treatment for menstrual cramps. Chamomile is an excellent skin soother that fights inflammation. When used externally or internally, it helps to reduce skin inflammation associated with eczema, and psoriasis. Organic Chamomile can be bought from Zerbos Health Food Market on Plymouth Road, Livonia, Michigan. The market is 11,250 square feet with a set of windows running above the shelves to bring in natural light. The product selection is the best in the Detroit metropolitan area.
Chamomile is an excellent herb for a First Aid Kit. When used as a poultice to a wound, the herb helps clean and heal cuts, bruises, and wounds. An herbal infusion may be used for an eye wash, cramps, wounds, and headaches. The recipe for hand and body lotion plus the herbal tea calls for ingredients that can be purchased from Zerbos Market. Following is a lotion for the hands and body:
Add 4 Tbs. of chamomile flowers to 1 cup of sunflower , safflower, or olive oil, and pour into a jar. Place container in a sunny window for 2 to 3 weeks. Strain out the herbs and heat the oil, with one tsp. of beeswax and 1 tsp. of honey in a double boiler until melted. Whip until cool and creamy. You may add lavender or rose petals for fragrance.
An herbal tea to nourish the female reproductive system during times of PMS or menopause can be made using any combination of the herbs below.
| 1 ½ cup of raspberry leaves | ½ cup ginger root |
| 1 cup chamomile flowers | ½ cup rosemary herb |
| ½ cup rose petals | ½ cup marshmallow root |
| ½ cup licorice root |
Combine all the dry ingredients in a jar and label. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 2 tsps. of the herbs and allow too steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Drink a cup once a day.
References
Cooksley, Valerie Gennari. (2011). Aromatherapy. A lifetime guide to healing with essential oils.
Freeman, Sally. (2011). Growing and gathering herbs for flavor. Health and Beauty.
I really enjoyed reading, great site, im going to add you to my favorites.