Chamomile is a plant with multiple virtues, especially when it comes to promoting sleep. If you are lucky enough to have a garden, you can easily prepare a chamomile infusion that will help you sleep better.
Choosing the Best Chamomile Variety for Your Garden
Before you can prepare your chamomile infusion, it is essential to choose the variety that best suits your garden. There are two types of chamomile commonly used for medicinal purposes: Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) and German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla). Roman chamomile is often favored for its relaxing properties, while German chamomile is known for its soothing effects on the digestive system. It’s up to you to decide what your priorities are and which strain suits you best.
Choosing the ideal location in your garden
Once you’ve selected the chamomile variety that’s right for you, it’s time to think about the ideal location in your garden. Chamomile likes sunny locations, but it can tolerate a few hours of shade per day. Make sure you choose well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Prepare the soil by weeding it and enriching it with compost before sowing the chamomile seeds. You can sow them directly in the ground or start by planting them in pots to transplant them later.
Steps to prepare your chamomile infusion
Once your chamomile is in full bloom, you can finally prepare your infusion. Opt for a beautiful sunny day to harvest your chamomile flowers. Pick them when the petals are open, gently grabbing them by their base. If you have a large garden, you may be surprised by the amount of flowers you will have. Don’t hesitate to harvest in abundance to enjoy your infusion all year round.
Once you have harvested your chamomile flowers, it is time to dry them. Spread them gently on a tray in a dry, well-ventilated place. The ideal is to let them dry away from direct sunlight, in order to preserve their beneficial properties as much as possible. Let them dry for a few days until they are nice and crisp to the touch.
Preparing chamomile infusion
Now that your chamomile flowers are perfectly dry, you can use them to prepare your infusion. To do this, boil water in a saucepan and add a handful of dried chamomile flowers. Let it steep for about 10 minutes, then strain the mixture to remove the flowers. You can sweeten your infusion with honey or add a slice of lemon for more flavor.
The benefits of chamomile infusion on sleep
Now that you know how to prepare your garden chamomile infusion, it is time to discover the many benefits of this plant on the quality of sleep. Chamomile has relaxing properties that help soothe the nerves and reduce anxiety. It thus promotes deeper and more restful sleep. Additionally, chamomile has anti-inflammatory effects that can relieve muscle and joint pain, allowing you to fall asleep more easily.
Chamomile and its other medicinal applications
Aside from its incredible sleep-promoting benefits, chamomile has long been recognized for its many other medicinal properties. Its popularity as a home remedy comes from a rich history, rooted in many cultures around the world. Here is a look at some of these applications that can complement your use of this incredible plant.
Soothing of the skin: The anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile make it beneficial for soothing skin irritations. It is often used in oil or cream form to treat skin conditions such as eczema, minor burns or insect bites.
Digestive support: As previously mentioned, German chamomile is known for its soothing effects on the digestive system. A cup of chamomile tea after meals can help relieve indigestion, bloating, and even cramps.
Strengthening the immune system: Chamomile contains antioxidants that can help strengthen the immune system. In times of stress or during the cold season, drinking chamomile infusion can help strengthen your natural defenses.
Stress reduction: Although it is widely recognized for its impact on sleep, chamomile’s ability to reduce stress should not be overlooked. Drinking a cup of chamomile tea during the day can help calm the mind and reduce feelings of anxiety.
hair care: Thanks to its lightening properties, chamomile is often used in hair products for blonde hair. It can help lighten hair naturally and give it a golden shine.
Cosmetic use of chamomile: beyond the infusion
Chamomile, in addition to its medicinal and relaxing properties, is also a popular ingredient in the field of cosmetology. Its richness in antioxidants, its soothing properties and its delicate fragrance make it a great ally for many beauty products.
Facial care rituals with chamomile
Chamomile is known to bring softness and radiance to the skin. Its floral water, obtained by distillation of flowers, is used as a tonic to soothe sensitive and irritated skin. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, it calms redness and inflammation. A simple spray of chamomile water on the face in the morning wakes up the skin and gives it a fresh complexion.
Chamomile baths for a moment of relaxation
Adding a few dried chamomile flowers to your bath is an ancient tradition. Chamomile-infused water provides a feeling of well-being, relaxes muscles and prepares the body for peaceful sleep. Additionally, chamomile is known to soften the skin and is particularly beneficial for those who suffer from dry or irritated skin.
Chamomile in hair care
In addition to its use to lighten blonde hair, chamomile is also included in various hair care products for its soothing and strengthening properties. Chamomile-based shampoos and conditioners are perfect for sensitive scalps. They clean gently, while leaving a pleasant feeling of freshness.
An ingredient of choice in makeup products
Many makeup products, including foundations and concealers, incorporate chamomile extracts into their formulation. The reason ? Its soothing properties which prevent irritation, particularly beneficial for sensitive skin. Thus, chamomile becomes an asset for those who wish to combine beauty and care.
