Chamomile to soothe and relax

Colic: for babies/children over six months, make an infusion with one level tsp chamomile to one cup of water and give up to three cups daily; for breastfeeding babies under six months, the mother should drink the tea.

Eczema: make an infusion with 50g dried herb to 750 ml water. Use this hot infusion in a warm (not very hot) bath and soak for at least 20 minutes. Alternatively, cool and apply directly to the itchy area on a cotton wool pad.

Indigestion, bloating, abdominal pain and hiccups: make a teapot of German chamomile and drink up to five cups daily.

Insomnia: drink a cup of German chamomile tea before bed; if using the dried herb, put one to two heaped tsp per cup of water and cover while infusing.

Stomach spasm: make an infusion using three parts chamomile to one part fennel seeds, aniseed, mint leave or angelica root. Drink up to five cups daily.

Caution

• The fresh plant may cause dermatitis
• Don't take the essential oil internally unless prescribed by a qualified herbalist
• Don't use the oil externally during pregnancy