Witch Way Now

Today, in this episode of herb talk.... Chamomile. Chamomile is a common herb that is used all over the world. From a mundane cup of hot tea to a powerful healing mixture, chamomile is a potent and versatile herb to have in your arsenal. There are two types of Chamomile, Roman Chamomile (Chameamelum nobile, Anthemis nobilis) and German Chamomile (Matricaria recutita). Both types of Chamomile can be used the same and work equally well. Ground apple (because of its apple like scent), whig plant, maythen and heermannchen are some of the folk names for chamomile. Its a masculine herb that is ruled by the Sun and the element of water (or air, depending on who you ask).

And now from my exploding herb cabinet... Chamomile

Fresh Chamomile is Daisy-like in appearance

Dry Chamomile

      Chamomile is widely known for its soothing, calming affects. Chamomile is a stress reliever and brings happiness. Teas made with this herb are often used to calm the nerves, relax the body and induce sleep. If your an insomniac like me, chamomile tea before bed may be exactly what you need to help you find some Zzzzz. You can also drink a mixture of chamomile, warm milk and honey. It can also help calm anxiety and panic. Also a muscle relaxant, chamomile can help reduce muscle cramps, spasms, and menstrual cramps. Morning sickness, restlessness during pregnancy, upset stomach and digestion are also soothed with chamomile.  There's also a wide range of topical uses for Chamomile. Cuts, scrapes, burns, blisters, rashes and eczema can be treated using Chamomile ( treat the area with a warm tea bag of add it to a salve). You can also add the herb to a warm bath.
      Chamomile isn't just for healing, this herb has a wide variety of magickal uses as well. Love, peace, money, purification, and protection are among the magickal uses of chamomile. To increase luck and attract money wash your hands in chamomile infused water. Put the dried flower in your wallet or change purse to attract money. Take a chamomile bath before performing spell work to cleanse and purify your spiritual energy. A bath will also attract love and help release feelings of loss and anger. Chamomile is very powerful herb of protection. Plant or sprinkle the herb around your property to protect your home and those that live on the property. It will remove curses and spells cast against you and prevent future harmful spells from taking hold. If you live in an apartment like myself, use water infused with chamomile to protect your home. Sprinkle or spray the windows and the entrance to your apartment to prevent anything (and anyone) negative from crossing the threshold.

Will Chamomile kill me??
Chamomile won't kill you. This herb has been used for healing dating back to the ancient Egyptians that used it to fight off fevers. People all over the world drink chamomile tea and it is used for cooking as well.   If your allergic to ragweed you may have an allergic reaction to the herb, but these reactions are pretty uncommon.  As with all things don't go overboard and if your pregnant consult your doctor before consuming chamomile tea. ***

Interesting Tidbit: Chamomile has an apple like scent and the word chamomile comes from the Greek meaning 'ground apple'. To brighten blonde hair, use a chamomile tea rinse.

Chamomile Eye Wash
I have sensitive eyes and skin, especially on my face. Skin irritation and swollen eyes are a fairly common occurance for me; especially during allergy season. The eye irritation is probably the worst. No one wants pink eye. During a pink eye attack a couple of years ago, I decided to take a more natural approach to dealing with this problem and what do you know.... Mother Nature has the best rememdy for it. The natural stuff works faster then anything else I've ever used. When I make an eye wash or a compress, I usually use a combination of fennel seed, chamomile and lavender. But using Chamomile on its own is OK too.

Start with two cups of water. Once the water has boiled add two tablespoons of dried Chamomile to the water.
Let the Chamomile steep for 10-15 minutes then strain it.
Once the liquid has cooled use it to wash the eyes 1-3 times a day.
You can also use the liquid as a compress. Dip a clean cloth into the liquid. Ring out the cloth leaving it damp and hold it over your eyes or the affected area.

Chamomile will help you track down those illusive Zzzz's and force them to do their job. Drink a hot cup of chamomile tea to calm the nerves, relieve stress and reduce anxiety (or just because it tastes good). A cup of this tea can also ease an unhappy stomach and make morning sickness a thing of the past, but talk to your doctor before making it a part of your routine. Use it for healing but keep in mind the possibility of allergic reaction. Take a bath with it to attract love and cleanse the spirit. A few dried flowers in your wallet will attract money and sprinkling it around your property will keep the curses away. There's more information out there so make sure you do some research on your own.

Bright Blessings,

~Amethyst~

***I am not a doctor and I don't play one on TV. Do your research before you consume any herbs via potions etc.

Sources: Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs by: Scott Cunningham
The Encyclopedia of Magickal Ingredients by: Lexa Rosean

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