Chamomile tea is one of the most well known herbal teas in existence. Used as both a medicinal tea as well as for its pleasant flavor, chamomile tea finds its way into almost every kitchen at some point or another. Chamomile has been used for its properties ever since ancient times, both for its medicinal effects and for its soothing aroma. Ancient Egyptians and Romans relished in its taste, considering it a plant fit for the gods and using it during worship rituals, but also in medicinal and recreational purposes.
There are two kinds of chamomile plants, one of them mostly spread in Europe and northern Africa, and the other, more typical for Asia. The many uses of chamomile range from incense in the worshipping of gods, to embalming, to a primal matter for the making of beer. The scent of chamomile has also been made famous either by being used as an ingredient in many perfumes and by the planting of chamomile on lawns, one of the most famous chamomile lawns existing at Buckingham Palace. The name of the chamomile plant comes from a Greek denomination that translates into "ground apple", as the chamomile smell is often associated with that of apples.
The effects attributed to chamomile are countless, and stem from the extensive use over centuries, and, while it certainly isn't the miracle cure that some think it to be, chamomile's properties are far from negligible. In fact, the consistent drinking of chamomile infusions have been associated with an increase in immunity, which means that people who consume chamomile tea have a better chance of not getting colds or infections, and, in case they do get them, have a much easier time fighting them off. Chamomile has low toxicity, and as such, many recommend its use for children in case of colic and other gastrointestinal problems. Nevertheless, chamomile does contain substances that might cause allergies, and as such, it's better to ask a doctor and get tested for allergies before ingesting the tea, especially in children and especially if there is a known allergy-prone background.
Chamomile tea is known for its mild antiseptic effects, as well as for the fact that it can help reduce fever and generally alleviate cold symptoms, like cough or chest inflammation. Other uses of chamomile infusions can be found in case of gastrointestinal upset and liver and gallbladder discomfort. One of the most widely known effects of chamomile, though, remains its soothing and relaxing effect, something that has lead many to use it as a before-sleep tea, especially in cases of insomnia, anxiety and a proneness to nightmares.
Beyond its medicinal effects, chamomile tea can be a pleasant, aromatic drink to be enjoyed with the whole family. Chamomile infusion is made with water a few degrees below boiling temperature, so as to not affect the taste and properties of the chamomile. The amount of chamomile per cup would range around one or two teaspoons of dried flowers but is really dependant on personal taste.
To learn more about the equipment needed to brew Loose Leaf Tea and how to use it, see out Tea Equipment section
Shop for Loose Tea, Teapots, and Accessories in our Loose Tea Shop
Chamomile tea is one of the most well known herbal teas in existence. Used as both a medicinal tea as well as for its pleasant flavor, chamomile tea finds its way into almost every kitchen at some point or another. Chamomile has been used for its properties ever since ancient times, both for its medicinal effects and for its soothing aroma. Ancient Egyptians and Romans relished in its taste, considering it a plant fit for the gods and using it during worship rituals, but also in medicinal and recreational purposes.
Tell a friend