Chamomile is a type of flower that has been used by humans for thousands of years. In fact, it was one of the first herbs that people ever cultivated and used as medicine.
Can You Eat Chamomile?
Yes, you can eat chamomile. The leaves and flowers are safe to eat. You can eat them raw or cooked. Raw chamomile can be added to salads or smoothies. They can be added to recipes to enhance the flavors and colors. However, chamomile are popular when it’s dried so it can be used to make tea.
What is Chamomile?
Chamomile is an annual or perennial plant with daisy-like flowers borne in clusters of small yellow blooms that grow on top of its smooth green leaves.
There are three main varieties: German chamomile, Roman chamomile, and garden chamomile (aka English). Both German and Roman are known for their soothing effects on the stomach when taken as a tea or herbal supplement; however, only German contains apigenin which is what makes it so effective at easing indigestion or irritation from a gas or bloating associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
When used externally it can also be applied directly onto skin rashes such as eczema for relief from itching along with other treatments such as topical steroids or antibiotics.
Are There Any Risks To Eating Chamomile?
When consumed in small amounts, chamomile is generally safe for everyone. However, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important that you don’t consume chamomile as there have been cases of children experiencing allergic reactions to the plant when their mothers drank tea made with it.
Additionally, larger doses of chamomile may cause diarrhea and vomiting in some people. If you have an allergy or intolerance to ragweed pollen (which can be cross-reactive with chamomile), you should avoid eating or drinking anything containing this herb.
Benefits of Chamomile
Chamomile has been used for centuries to treat a variety of health conditions. It can be taken in tea, capsule, or liquid extract form.
It’s best known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it useful for treating skin irritations and inflammation associated with eczema and psoriasis. Studies have shown chamomile may also help treat the following:
Allergies: Research shows that taking chamomile orally may help reduce allergic reactions in people who suffer from seasonal allergies (hay fever) when combined with other herbs such as ginger and lemon balm. However, more research is needed before making recommendations on the proper dosage and duration of use for this purpose.
Inflammation: Taking chamomile orally may help reduce joint swelling caused by arthritis and other inflammatory conditions like bursitis and tendinitis when combined with other herbal remedies.
What Does Chamomile Taste Like?
In terms of flavor, chamomile may be best described as floral and sweet. It has a similar flavor profile to apples, though less sweet. The taste is sometimes described as “honeyed apple” or “apple pie.”
Though it can be used in desserts (like ice cream or cookies), chamomile is best suited for teas, salads, and soups.
What Can You Do With Chamomile?
Chamomile is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a number of different ways. In addition to being the most common use for chamomile, it’s also an effective way to relax at bedtime. But you don’t have to limit yourself to that! Here are some other ways you can incorporate chamomile into your diet:
Add it to smoothies and juices. You can also use it in tea or coffee, but keep in mind that if you’re going for flavor rather than health benefits, chamomile’s taste may overpower other ingredients (depending on how much you use).
Add it to salads and soups. The leaves are especially good this way because they retain their flavor when cooked or heated up—unlike flowers which lose their aroma after being cooked. And while they’re great tasting on their own, there are tons of ways they pair well with foods like fruits (especially apples), greens (spinach), nuts/seeds (hazelnuts), cheese (goat cheese)…the list goes on!
Use in desserts such as cakes or pies by adding them at the end so they don’t get too soft from being baked into the dish itself before serving time arrives at a dinner party later tonight.
Conclusion
Eating chamomile is certainly a unique experience that can be enjoyed by anyone. If you’re looking for an unusual snack, or even just something new to try out with your friends and family, this is the perfect opportunity. The taste may not be for everyone but it’s worth trying out at least once!
Kate has been in the food business for over 20 years. Worked as a cook at several buffets which include Old Country Buffet, Five Star Buffet, and Ichiban Buffet. Now, I’m mostly at home cooking for my family, caring for chickens and ducks, and tending the garden.
