One of the safest and most soothing teas out there, chamomile tea is a trusted and true favorite with all ages. It comes from the flowering plant of the daisy family, and has a number of health benefits in addition to its regular soothing properties and calming, smooth flavor. It has been used as a natural remedy for thousands of years, and is gentle enough to be given to adults as well as small children. The active compound that helps make chamomile so effective for many health issues is an essential oil contained in the flower known as bisabolol. This oil has been proven to possess many antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Matricaria recutita or German chamomile, also spelled camomile, is an annual plant of the composite family Asteraceae. Synonyms are: Chamomilla chamomilla, Chamomilla recutita (correct name according to the Flora Europaea), Matricaria chamomilla, and Matricaria suaveolens.

The finest chamomile flowers in the world come from the Nile River Valley of Egypt. Considered a remedy for all ills by the ancient Egyptians, this golden herb remains a modern favorite to promote calm and relieve anxiety. When steeped, these fragrant blossoms smell of freshly cut apples and produce a rich, golden cup with calming flavor and sweet, floral finish.

The name Chamomile comes from the Greek word meaning 'ground apple.' Its history dates back at least to ancient Egypt, where Chamomile tea was prescribed as a cold remedy. The Romans enjoyed it as a beverage, as well as an incense. Ironically, the name 'Roman Chamomile' by which it is sometimes known, does not stem from this time. It rather comes from an arbitrary naming of the herb in the 19th Century by a botanist who happened to find some growing in the Roman Coliseum.

Some of the most common uses for chamomile tea, aside from simply enjoying its delicate flavor, include the treatment of sleep disorders or insomnia, panic attacks, and anxiety. It is also useful for treating any skin irritations, such as eczema or chickenpox, if applied to a compress and used to wet the site of irritation. The antibacterial properties of chamomile are quite helpful in treating scrapes or other wounds, and also are most effective when applied directly to the wounded area.

One beauty trick that has been passed down for generations is using chamomile tea to wake up the face and soothe tired eyes. Because it naturally reduces puffiness and can lighten skin, if you place two damp teabags over your eyes and rest for a few minutes, you should notice almost instant results. This is a good way to wake up after a long night out. The tea is also a nice morning relaxer if you are feeling the effects of an upset stomach or diarrhea, as it has such a soothing effect. For intestinal problems or irritable bowel syndrome, it can be quite effective.

Goldpresman Quantenova makes the finest blend of Chamomile Tea.