Benefits of Chamomile

Hello Friends

Welcome to another week on the Wellness Corner with Cassandra. This week I wanted to talk about Chamomile and its many health benefits. According to WebMD, “chamomile has been used as a traditional medicine for years to calm anxiety and settle stomachs.”  But it doesn’t stop there. Chamomile has also been connected to helping with skin irritation, diarrhea, and hemorrhoids.  Chamomile can come in the form of supplements, teas, and oils. It is packed with antioxidants and has been around for generations as a natural form of medication and healing.

What is Chamomile?

Chamomile, according to Healthline, is “a herb that comes from daisy-like flowers of the Asteraceae plant family, dried and infused into hot water.” Chamomile teas are made from a combination of these flowers. Oftentimes you can find chamomile teas paired with other plants and herbs such as lavender, that provide additional health benefits. Honey, vanilla and other natural flavors are often added to create a smooth taste.  Chamomile can be used as an alternative to more sugary and caffeinated beverages. Chamomile can be found in several oils from various companies that sell essential oils.  Please make sure that you do your research and find brands that sell oils that have integrity. There are also chamomile supplements out on the market to take. (There is not a whole lot of research surrounding the research of the supplements at this time) If it is okay with your doctor, I think just having an old fashion cup of tea would be most beneficial when using chamomile as a sleep aid, or for relaxation and calming purposes.

How Can I incorporate Chamomile into my Life?

Chamomile is a very smooth, comforting, and inexpensive tea.  The delicious smell and rich flavor are a great treat after a long and exhausting day.  It can also be part of your evening routine.  It pairs well with lemon and sugar cookies, macaroons, and gingersnaps.  With everything going on around us in these times, it is so important to take out small moments for yourself. Jump on a virtual meeting with a family member or friend and enjoy unwinding while your body gets ready for a good night’s sleep.  Create an environment in your house that is quiet, and calm.  Sip your tea and allow the day's stress to roll off you. 

Here is a recipe to go alongside your chamomile tea.

Sugar Cookies

Cooking spray

2Cups flour

1 egg

2 teaspoon vanilla 

1 cup sugar

1 stick of unsalted butter

¼ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon baking powder

Add flour, baking powder, and salt.  Cream butter and sugar.  Next, Add your vanilla and egg.   Whisk flour into the mixture until all ingredients are equally combined. Separate the dough into two parts. Use a roller to roll the dough into two circles. Place each circular formation into its own plastic Ziploc bag.  Place into the freezer for 30 minutes. Set your oven to 325 degrees. Take the dough from the freezer, place on a non-stick surface and spread.  Grab your favorite cookie cutters and cup out cookie shapes. Add cooking spray to your baking pans and place cookies on the sheet. Bake cookies for 11-15 minutes. Remove from the oven.  (As an option, you may add sprinkles or powdered sugar to garnish.) Allow to cool and enjoy!

Self-Care with Ajaba Naturals

Friends as we start this new week.  Make time for a relaxing bath.  One of my favorite scents is the Ajaba Naturals Citrus Spa All Natural Bath Soak.  After having your chamomile tea and your delicious cookie.  Run a nice warm bath and allow the scent of the bath soak to calm and relax you. The soak has Epsom salt, vitamin E, dried flowers, orange peel, and much more! Allow your body to enjoy this luxurious bath soak. You will love the beautiful jar the soak comes in.  It would also make a perfect gift for a friend!

Have a Great Week, and I will see you Next Week on the Wellness Corner with Cassandra.