Amazingly anti-inflammatory, aromatically rich chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is well-known in the world of sleep, or should I say the lovely trifecta of stress, anxiety, & insomnia, but its most powerful strength lies in gut restoration (stress destroys our guts too).
More and more research is emerging about the gut-brain connection. In fact, our gut is a powerhouse of neurotransmitter production and activity. It houses more neurons than our entire spinal cord. 90-95% of all serotonin is created in the gut! So, when mood and cognitive issues arise, the problem isn’t in the brain — no wonder SSRI’s like Prozac are no more effective than placebo!
Restoring the gut should be everyone’s #1 priority. It is the first hiding place when searching for root causes to any issue. And chamomile is widely available and accessible. This amazing little flower
- halts nausea and vomiting (bad food anyone?);
- reduces muscle tension and spasms (think gut!);
- stimulates the release of digestive juices from the pancreas and liver (poor digestion = major gut-brain issues);
- helps the liver do important detoxification (poor liver detox = poor sleep & hormone balance);
- supports blood sugar balance (enough said);
- and is a strong carminative.
Carminatives ease problematic digestion; they lessen cramping, gas, and other digestive pains – and this is because of their powerful essential oils. Chamomile is rich in an essential oil containing the terpenes chamazulene and bisabolol that soothe and bring gentle healing to tissues (when used as a distilled essential oil – skin issues are soothed with topical application).
Drink before meals. Drink after meals. Drink before bed. Just drink it daily.
This month’s Wild Woman Project New Moon Circles will feature a chamomile infusion experience along with 2 other amazing carminative plants!
Note: Caution should be taken when drinking chamomile tea if one has a known ragweed allergy or is taking barbiturates (the effects may been intensified).
Reference
Romm, Aviva MD. Botanical Medicine for Women’s Health (2nd ed.). St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier.