For those interested in getting involved in medicinal herbalism, chamomile makes a good first foray into the art. It is readily available in any supermarket, has a long history of use, and has application for a wide range of conditions. Additionally, it has an unoffensive apple aroma and a pleasant flavor and as a result makes a wonderful herb to use as a base when making an infusion that includes more potent herbs.
Chamomile can be used:
- to help alleviate nausea, including motion sickness
- to aid in relaxation before bed
- to help relieve cramps (stomach or menstrual)
- to ease the discomfort of arthritis
- to lessen the severity of a tension headache
- to soothe certain skin irritations (as a paste)
- to add golden highlights to the hair (as a hair rinse)
- to ease discomfort related to colic or teething
- to lessen the severity of seasonal allergy symptoms
Additionally, chamomile can be used magically for purposes related to:
- healing magic
- love spells
- luck spells
- rites that invoke a Solar deity
Precautions:
- persons with allergies to ragweed may have a reaction to chamomile
- chamomile contains natural blood thinners and may be inappropriate for those with certain conditions or those taking certain medications
This was written as a compliment to a great new feature over at Clan of the Cats called Witchy Wednesday. This new weekly feature includes sketches of one of my own favorite fictional witches, Chelsea (though after reading about her for like 9 years I feel like I know her), with a bit of comedic commentary about living a Pagan life.
Blessings
Mama Kelly
Sources:
http://www.gardensablaze.com/HerbChamomileMed.htm
http://www.altnature.com/gallery/chamomile.htm
http://www.anniesremedy.com/herb_detail13.php
http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-951-GERMAN+CHAMOMILE.aspx?activeIngredientId=951&activeIngredientName=GERMAN+CHAMOMILE&source=2
Note: This article is for informative uses only and is not meant to be taken as specific medical advice. As always, do not try to diagnose yourself, consult your physician or pharmacist before adding any supplement to your regimen, and be aware that any product is capable of producing an allergic reaction in some segment of the population.
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By Karen @ Blazing Minds on Oct 14, 2009 |
If it helps with relaxation before bed they I should give it a try, I have a terrible time relaxing before bed, I must of had about 2 hours sleep last night, I’ll pick up some Chamomile tea on the way back from work tonight and see if it helps, thanks for the advice
By Mama Kelly on Oct 14, 2009 |
Karen – there are herbs that have a stronger sedating effect than chamomile, but chamomile is certainly a safe enough first thing to try in an effort to find relief
I hope you sleep better tonight!