When I imagine patience in the form of a flower, the first one that comes to mind is chamomile. It's like a deep, renewing breath, leaving you feeling completely at ease. Your emotions calm. Chamomile, the second flower featured in the #WildFolkFlowerLibrary, is the ultimate symbol of peacefulness. With its soothing, airy fragrance and delightfully calming taste, it's no surprise that chamomile flowers have found their way into many remedies for bringing peace to the mind.
Chamomile is known for its relaxing effect of the body and mind and promotes a peaceful disposition. There are two species of Chamomile commonly use medicinally and therapeutically: Matricaria chamomilla, aka German Chamomile and Chamaemelum nobile, aka Roman Chamomile. Both provide gentle medicine, perfect for soothing both children and adults. As such, several cultures have a ritual of bathing newborn babies for the first time in chamomile water. Additionally, it's been noted that chamomile tea before bedtime helps one to fall asleep easily and rest soundly. Chamomile tea at night allows the body to sleep tight.
A sun-loving plant, chamomile dates back thousands of years to Ancient Egypt where it was considered a sacred gift from the Sun God, Ra. Hieroglyphics show that chamomile was used in skincare by Egyptian noblewomen. History goes to show that both the Egyptians and the ancient Romans used chamomile in tea, salves, creams, incenses and other beverages.
Commonly known for its soothing effects on the skin, chamomile is full of calming constituents particularly suited to sensitive skin or skin prone to inflammation. The strong anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile have shown effectiveness in relieving dry, itchy skin caused by eczema and other skin irritations. Additionally, an infusion of the flowers can be made into a hair rinse to cleanse and condition your scalp! A daily rinse adds luster to dry hair by nourishing hair follicles and soothing a dry scalp.
Chamomile is healing for both the body and soul. Its message comes with a sunny disposition. It's an herb of purification and protection and can be used to deepen sleep and meditation. It provides peace in difficult times and brings emotional balance. It makes us feel patient, safe and loved!
These are the species of chamomile that are commonly used to make flower infusions that we love and use at Wild Folk. As always, when using or eating a flower or any other plant, be sure you have correctly identified it to prevent any adverse reactions. You need to be sure of the variety and do your research to make sure that it’s not only edible but also know if there are any contraindications with that variety or what side effects there might be. If you’re unsure of your variety, don't eat it! :)