What is chamomile tea? Flavor, uses, and recipes

Jessica Calle
Té de camomila para negocios Té de camomila para negocios

To speak of chamomile tea is to refer to one of the finest herbs that provide health benefits in addition to its aroma and flavor. Since ancient times, this noble plant has been used to help humanity with a wide range of ailments.

Chamomile has many uses, the main ones being as a beverage in infusions, also in cosmetics in creams, soaps, shampoos, perfumes, in holistic aromatherapy treatments, as a natural medicine, and more.

Since ancient times, chamomile has been used as a healing plant. It is said to have originated in Europe and northern Asia, but later spread throughout the world. Today, its use has multiplied, passing from one generation to the next.

The chamomile plant

The chamomile plant is also known scientifically as Matricaria recutita, and its flowers are used to extract its essential oils.

Chamomile infusion for business

Among the essential components that can be obtained from the plant are:

  • Valeric acid.
  • Volatile oil.
  • Flavonoids.
  • Tannins.
  • Salicylates and cyanogenic glycosides.

As for medicinal actions we have:

  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Antispasmodic.
  • Bitter.
  • Sedative.
  • Antiemetic.
  • Carminative
  • Anti-allergic.

Flower Description: They bear a strong resemblance to daisies, but are much smaller in size. They are harvested from early summer through fall. Their fragrance resembles chamomile apples. The plant's leaves are usually spike-shaped and pinnate with a mild aroma.

Chamomile and camomile

Chamomile, which comes from the daisy family and is very common in the meadows of much of the Iberian Peninsula, represents joy and is a symbol of spring.

The word chamomile comes from the Greek word kamai melon or earth apple, which refers to its aroma.

Its scientific name is Chamaemelum noble, Anthemis nobilis and its popular name is Chamomile.

What is chamomile tea good for?

Chamomile flower

Chamomile tea is used to treat many health conditions, among the many benefits of chamomile tea we can name:

  • As an anti-inflammatory: Chamomile tea is ideal for reducing symptoms associated with spasms, muscle pain, cramps, and gastrointestinal disorders, as it protects and helps repair the gastric membrane. It also reduces inflammation in cases of menstrual disorders. Topically prepared chamomile tea is used for skin inflammation, eye irritation, sunburn, eczema, and rashes.
  • As a calming effect: Drinking chamomile tea helps with stress, as it reduces stress levels as well as anxiety, because it increases glycine production, also helping to reduce depressive symptoms.

Likewise, drinking chamomile tea helps induce sleep, as it contains a component called apigenin, which acts on the brain's receptors, causing drowsiness. This provides a natural way to fall asleep and relax the mind.

To prevent some heart conditions, chamomile tea contains flavonoids, a type of antioxidant that helps reduce blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which are the main causes of heart disease.

Likewise, in this sense, chamomile tea has the potential to help reduce blood pressure and prevent arteriosclerosis.

To strengthen your immune system, chamomile tea can improve digestive infections and, in turn, intestinal flora. This process in the digestive system allows for proper organ function and, consequently, the immune system.

Also thanks to the properties of chamomile, it helps combat nasal congestion and reduces inflammatory episodes.

Chamomile tea helps maintain regular blood sugar levels. It acts on the pancreas, the organ that produces insulin, controlling blood sugar levels. Drinking the tea on an empty stomach and after meals will help moderate this condition.

In cases of skin wounds, you can use chamomile tea topically to help the skin heal faster, even in cases of skin irritation.

Furthermore, thanks to the phenolic compounds and tannins in chamomile, they reduce the effects of skin aging by promoting collagen production.

It is also possible to give chamomile to children , but the appropriate dosage for them must be taken into account.

What does chamomile taste like?

Loose chamomile tea

Chamomile is an herb with a sweet, floral flavor. Unlike other teas from the Camellia sinensis plant, such as black and green tea, chamomile tea does not contain caffeine. Because it has a very pleasant flavor, it can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Its scent is reminiscent of green apples, which can be perceived when the petals are rubbed together.

How to prepare a healthy chamomile tea

To prepare a healthy chamomile tea you need:

  • Stainless steel filter (sphere shaped).
  • Small strainer (preferably made of cloth).
  • A saucepan.
  • A cup.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons of chamomile flowers.
  • 1 cup of water.

Preparation:

Pour the cup of water into the saucepan. If you want to make a larger batch, add one more cup of water for each drink. Return the saucepan with the water to the boil.

Add the tablespoons of chamomile flowers, if you want more tea, double the tablespoons of chamomile flowers.

Let the preparation boil for approximately 5 minutes.

Then remove the preparation from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.

Then strain the liquid so that no residue remains in the infusion.

You can add sugar or some sweetener to your liking at the end.

You can also prepare chamomile tea more quickly and easily using a stainless steel filter or pre-made infusion bags.

To do this, boil the water in a saucepan or microwave, then add the filter, chamomile flowers, or tea bag, cover the preparation, and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes.

Finally, uncover and, if you prefer, sweeten to your liking and begin enjoying a healthy tea.

It can also be mixed with other ingredients to make a more delicious chamomile tea .

What happens if I drink chamomile tea with honey?

The best way to use chamomile is to make infusions using its flowers. When we make chamomile tea with honey, it helps us sleep better because honey contains a natural sugar that produces a small amount of insulin.

Thus, insulin allows for the production of melatonin, which is the hormone responsible for regulating sleep. This is why it's recommended to drink chamomile tea with honey before bed for a better night's sleep.

What happens if I drink green tea with chamomile?

Green tea is a variety of tea that comes from the Camellia sinensis plant and is made from fresh leaves from the bush or from new shoots of the plant that have not yet been oxidized or fermented. Among its benefits, green tea is an aid in weight loss.

As for chamomile tea, it has the potential to increase metabolic function, coupled with its water content, which helps to satisfy the appetite.

Combining green tea with chamomile creates one of the best natural metabolic accelerators, as both aid digestion and reduce blood sugar levels.

Chamomile Green Tea Recipe

Ingredients

To prepare a liter of tea you need:

  • 2 tablespoons of green tea.
  • A tablespoon of chamomile or 4 bags.

Preparation

Place the water in a saucepan along with the chamomile and green tea , then bring it to a boil.

Let it boil for 5 minutes, turn off the heat.

Let the infusion rest for 5 minutes.

Strain the infusion.

Serve the preparation hot, makes 4 cups.

How do you use chamomile to reduce inflammation?

We've previously discussed some of chamomile tea's uses for reducing inflammation. However, another use is the use of chamomile tea bags or sachets, soaked at a warm temperature, and placed as compresses. It's an excellent homemade remedy used to relieve eye discomfort such as styes, as well as eye fatigue, conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva), and to reduce inflammation around the ears. Chamomile tea is also recommended for weight loss .

What happens if I drink chamomile tea with cinnamon?

Cinnamon is often referred to specifically as the bark of the Cinnamon tree. When the epidermis is removed, it gives off a very distinctive flavor and aroma. Cinnamon contains numerous health benefits.

Among the benefits that cinnamon provides are:

  • As a natural relaxant, it helps soothe discomfort associated with menstruation.
  • It helps the digestive process to improve slow or heavy digestion and also reduce bloating.
  • It is a natural antioxidant with diuretic and purifying qualities.
  • Helps lower cholesterol levels.
  • It speeds up metabolism, therefore, it is an ally when it comes to helping burn body fat.
  • It helps regulate body temperature, so it's wonderful on those cold winter days.
  • It helps keep the brain active, allowing for better concentration when studying or working.

Combining chamomile tea with cinnamon tea enhances each of the benefits mentioned above, as both teas have similar properties that can work very well together.

Chamomile tea recipe with cinnamon

Chamomile tea for hospitality

Ingredients

To prepare 1 liter of tea you need:

  • A tablespoon of chamomile or 4 bags.
  • A large cinnamon stick.

Preparation

Place the water in a saucepan along with the cinnamon stick, then bring to a boil.

Let it boil for 5 minutes.

Then add the chamomile and turn off the heat.

Let the infusion rest for 5 minutes.

Strain the infusion.

Serve the preparation hot, makes 4 cups of tea.

This preparation is ideal to take after each meal and at night before going to sleep.

Regarding some contraindications, it should be noted that although chamomile tea combined with cinnamon has very good benefits, it is not recommended in cases of pregnancy or when it is suspected, because cinnamon causes an increase in body temperature and can cause uterine contraction and cause a miscarriage.

Likewise, it is not recommended during breastfeeding, as it can cause allergic hypersensitivity in the baby.

Consuming cinnamon in high doses also affects the body, causing symptoms such as cramps, drowsiness, and accelerated heart rate.

Regarding chamomile, it is contraindicated in people with allergic rhinitis, or those who are sensitive to the use of chamomile, as well as in children under 6 years of age because it can cause allergies.

If you want to enjoy the combination of chamomile tea and cinnamon, take note of all these tips to avoid possible complications or side effects.

What happens if I drink chamomile tea every day?

Chamomile is known to have multiple benefits that make it the ideal infusion for a good healthy drink.

However, although chamomile tea is safe to drink, it is recommended not to overindulge in tea, as excess can result in an allergic reaction, and it can also cause skin or eye irritation if applied directly.

Another possible contraindication is vomiting caused by drinking large amounts of chamomile tea.

It may also interfere with the use of certain medications such as anticoagulants, contraceptives and hypoglycemic agents.

In cases of pregnancy, it is unknown whether there are any adverse effects or if it affects breastfeeding, however, it is advisable not to overdo it.

At Tétique, we know that tea is one of the most popular infusions around the world. However, we also understand that many people enjoy other herbal infusions. That's why, in addition to our wide selection of high-quality teas, we also offer a variety of other herbal infusions to suit the needs and tastes of all our customers. From chamomile to Pennyroyal Mint Infusion and Organic Lemon Ginger , at Tétique, we are committed to providing delicious and healthy options for any palate.

What are the benefits of drinking chamomile tea at night?

Chamomile infusion in bulk

For many people, drinking chamomile tea at night is a very common practice, and it's good for them. Thus, chamomile tea is perhaps one of the most beneficial for health, which is why it has become a favorite on the market.

Chamomile tea is used by those who like to obtain a natural effect for the conditions they suffer, especially those related to the sensation of relaxation, tranquility, and rest. This is why it is selected as a favorite at bedtime, so that it provides a restful sleep without interruptions.

Other uses of chamomile

Chamomile goes beyond its health benefits; it can be used to prepare various cosmetic and gardening products.

In this sense, we will name some other uses that we can extract from this popular plant:

  • As a facial cleanser

Chamomile is very useful for people who suffer from acne or have excess oil production on the face.

Chamomile tea can be used to make a gentle facial cleanser to remove or reduce impurities and reduce puffiness and dark circles.

With the preparation of filtered chamomile tea, it is stored in a glass container.

Moisten a cotton ball with the cleanser and rub it all over your face.

It is recommended to use it in the morning and at night before going to bed.

  • Natural hair lightener

Chamomile tea added to your regular shampoo is a great treatment for blonde hair, achieving a natural lightening or softer highlights.

The properties of chamomile tea contribute to achieving shine and healthy hair.

By preparing half a cup of filtered chamomile tea (125 ml) and a cup of hair shampoo.

Mix the chamomile tea preparation with the shampoo and you can use it as usual.

Its effectiveness will depend on the frequency of its use.

  • As a repellent for pests and plant diseases

Chamomile tea is also an excellent repellent to keep pests and diseases away from garden plants.

With the preparation of 1 cup of filtered chamomile tea, 1 liter of water, 1 bottle and 1 spray bottle.

Add the liquids to the spray bottle and spray it on the garden plants several times a week.

At Tetique, we are recognized as the leading supplier of chamomile tea in Spain. We work with the best producers and carefully select the freshest, highest-quality chamomile flowers to create an exquisite and aromatic tea that captivates our customers. We also offer different varieties of chamomile tea to suit our customers' tastes and needs. If you're looking for premium chamomile tea for your business or to enjoy at home, don't hesitate to trust Tetique. We are committed to providing the best possible tea experience.