Realize the Benefits for Skin
We all know that Chamomile makes a great tea, but did you know it’s just as beneficial when used externally?
What Is Chamomile Extract?
Chamomile has been around since at least 1550 BC when Egyptians used it as a cold remedy. It was also used extensively by the Romans as a beverage and a natural way to treat headaches.
Chamomile flower extract comes from the Asteraceae family, a group of daisy-like flowers. While there are many different varieties, there are two main types used in products today: German chamomile and Roman chamomile.
Most of us recognize the benefits of this plant when used to relax the body and prepare for sleep. However, chamomile is so much more than a simple relaxant. In fact, it’s been used for hundreds of years to treat digestive issues, soothe the skin and more.
Benefits For Your Skin
Chamomile Extract is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent that can heal acne, decrease eczema, soothe dermatitis, improve skin’s natural glow, and even speed the healing of burns. It not only reduces inflammation but also cleanses and moisturizes the skin while soothing irritation. These are invaluable qualities when dealing with damaged skin.
When added to other skincare products, chamomile extracts can even increase the efficacy of creams and lotions. While it’s beneficial for nearly any skin type, chamomile is especially powerful for dry or acne-prone skin.
The two primary components of chamomile extract are apigenin and alpha-bisabolol. Alpha-bisabolol is what gives chamomile its potent anti-inflammatory properties. It also aids in cell turnover, which speeds the healing process.
Besides chamomile extract skin benefits, there is a host of other amazing ways that this natural extract helps the body. Both German and Roman chamomile is effective soothers of the mind as well as the digestive system. Roman chamomile is slightly different from the German variety in that it has antiseptic qualities. However, both forms provide great analgesic and antibacterial properties.
Thanks to its flavonoid-rich profile, the anti-inflammatory effects of chamomile can be experienced both internally and externally. As an example of its internal use, some have found great success in treating urinary stones with chamomile supplements.
While chamomile is most popular in tea form, you won’t be able to reap its full spectrum of benefits using this method. More potent forms include dried flower heads, a liquid extract, capsules for oral consumption, and topical ointments.
While chamomile is found in many standard grocery stores, its more specialized forms are often only sold in smaller health stores or online shops.
As you shop for chamomile-infused products like topical ointments or creams, pay close attention to their ingredient labels. The ingredient list should be as short as possible (and preferably organic) to ensure its efficacy and that it hasn’t been diluted with lower quality ingredients.
Chamomile extracts are considered safe for most individuals. However, it may interact with some prescription drugs like blood thinners, anti-seizure medications, and antidepressants. Also, keep in mind that chamomile is a member of the daisy family. If you’re allergic to daisies, you should avoid chamomile altogether. Outside of these possibilities, chamomile is safe for everyday use.
By learning more about chamomile, you might be surprised how versatile this little flower can be. It provides a truly natural way to treat everything from problematic skin to painful digestive tracts. As ancient as the plant is, chamomile remains as relevant for today’s ailments as it was hundreds of years ago.
