Chamomile

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is a flowering plant of the daisy family (Asteraceae). Native to Europe and Western Asia, it is common all over Greece. The herb smells slightly like an apple and grows low, which may explain its name, since chamomile is derived from the Greek “apple in the ground”.

Humble in appearance, but with very important properties, it is considered one of the most useful medicinal plants.  

Its action has been known since antiquity, as the ancient Greeks exploited its valuable and soothing properties. 

The Romans used it to treat many diseases and for its contribution to longevity.

Modern research verifies the usefulness of chamomile as a medicine in a wide range of diseases.

Chamomile contains essential oil, flavonoids, coumarins, choline, tannins and the bitter glycoside anthelmintic acid and mucilages. It also contains silicon, calcium, magnesium and potassium salts.

Benefits

The use of chamomile helps: to fight stress, insomnia and to stimulate the immune system. Chamomile has been shown to have the ability to increase the production of white blood cells, which improves the functioning of our immune system, relieving us from colds and viruses that “stick” when our immune system is low. But even if we get sick with the flu or a runny nose, inhaling a steam of chamomile extract can soothe the cold and reduce the runny nose.

It helps our digestive system. Chamomile tea can relieve swelling and discomforting gases, as well as relieve the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Moreover, chamomile anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, can treat skin problems and can relieve the pain.