The Calming Effect of Chamomile

European health and beauty wisdom has long touted the mental and physical calming properties of the chamomile flower, which means "earth apple" in Greek. Chamomile is a delicate white daisy-like flower that prefers temperate climates and gentle sunlight. Sought after for it’s soothing benefits, chamomile is a versatile and gentle balm for the body and mind.

Chamomile is native originally to western Europe, India and western Asia, but it is just as comfortable in North American pastures, flower beds and roadsides. The flower heads are used for everything from tea to skin care products, bath oils and cleansers. Known for being very gentle, chamomile contains both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that have a soothing effect on the body. In a bath or lotion, chamomile can soothe and lessen the effects of eczema, reducing redness from psoriasis and rosacea. 

Chamomile also contains flavonoids -  a nutrient that plays a significant role in chamomile’s medicinal effects when consumed as a tea. Some studies indicate that chamomile tea may help lower blood sugar. Most commonly, however, chamomile is known to prevent the release of serotonin - the stress hormone. A cup of chamomile tea during the day can help relieve stress, or in the evenings will help people relax and fall asleep. Chamomile is naturally caffeine free, and is known for having a sweet flavor with an earthy undertone. Sometimes referred to as honey flower tea, you can try it with milk and honey, or blended with organic peppermint. 

The wonderful floral fragrance from the flowers seems to make worries and stresses magically disappear. An ingredient in the Firepot Tea Blenders Kit, you can steep it by itself or pair it with mint or lavender for a calming restorative break in the middle of a busy day. Or, right before bedtime, blend it with lavender and rose petals for a fragrant moment of mindfulness right before crawling into bed and drift off to peaceful sleep.