Plant Monograph: Chamomile for the ultimate beauty ritual
Chamomile certainly isn't just your grandmother's evening tea anymore!
This sweet smelling tea has a long history that goes way back to ancient Egypt where the crushed flowers were rubbed on the skin as a cosmetic.
In Spain, it was documented that women used it in their shampoo to add some shine to their braided locks.
At gatherings in Medieval times the petals were strewn about to create a pleasant aroma...just imagine... fancy dresses, gorgeous flowers, and fun!
Most of us known this plant today as Roman Chamomile but funny thing, It was actually discovered by an English Botanist growing wild in the Coliseum.
So how can a girl in the twenty first century infuse chamomile into her daily life?
Chamomile & Honey Glowing Face Mask
Chamomile has a very soothing affect on the skin while tightening pores and fighting those annoying blemishes with its antibacterial properties.
Directions: Boil 1 cup water and add 2 tablespoons of dried chamomile. Let the herbs and water brew for about 10-15 minutes then strain out the water. Add 1-2 tablespoons of honey and perhaps a hint on almond milk. Mix well and apply the soothing concoction to your face and neck for 20 minutes. Wash and glow!
Look "Refreshed" After A Long Night
So, you might have stayed out a little too late last night and you awoke the next morning with dark circles under your eyes. Here's my favorite natural beauty treatment to look fresh (even if you're super tired). Chamomile is a great remedy to reduce puffiness under the eyes while also brightening the area.
Directions: Heat 1 cup of water to boiling temperature. Soak 2 teabags into the water for about 5 minutes then remove and cool. Apply the tea bags under each eye for 5 minutes then remove the tea bags and let this soothing concoction seep into your skin. Your feel great and look completely refreshed for your busy day!
Having Annoying PMS Issues?
Haven't we all had "one of those days"? A cup of chamomile tea is great at reducing period pains. This plant is much more than a pretty flower, it can help to relax muscles in the uterus and reduce cramping by releasing glycine (which eases muscle spasms).
Directions: simply brew a cup of chamomile tea, relax, and drink.
Give Your Hair Some Extra Shine & A Summer Glow
This treatment is still being used today like it was back in Spain to provide a gorgeous shine to your locks.
Directions: Brew an entire pot of chamomile tea and bring it into your shower. Wash your hair as usual and after you have rinsed your hair once, use the chamomile tea as your final rinse. If your hair is blonde, it can instantly brighten up your hair while giving it some shine! BTW: it's also great for dandruff.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
Last, but certainly not least, Chamomile super yummy for the skin with actions like decreasing inflammation, soothing rashes, and nourishing sensitive skin.
Directions: In an 8oz glass jar add your favorite oil (jojoba, olive, castor) and pour the oil into the glass jar filling it about 3/4th of the way. Next fill the remaining 1/4th with dried chamomile flowers. Place the jar by a window to let the oil infuse with the flowers for about 3 weeks, shaking it every 3 days. Strain out the flowers and use this oil as your daily lotion!