The herb has been approved in Germany to treat gastrointestinal disturbances as well as mouth infections and skin irritations. Few studies have tested the effects of drinking chamomile tea on humans, although its ingredients have shown anti-inflammatory and stomach calming properties in the laboratory. A few small trials in Germany have found that the extract can speed the healing of skin wounds. Chamomile produces a brilliant blue oil containing the compound azulene as well as several flavonoids. Together, these substances are thought to serve as natural digestion aids, muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatories, and infection fighters.
Chamomile is quite safe.
On rare occasions it may produce an allergic reaction in people prone to hay fever. If the herb causes any itching or discomfort, stop using it. To prepare chamomile tea, pour a cup of boiling water over one heaping tablespoon of flower heads and steep in a covered vessel for ten minutes. Since commercially prepared teas may be adulterated with other plants, it's best to use only whole flower heads, although these can vary in potency depending on growing conditions and harvest time. You may be able to find them at specialty natural food stores.