Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) flowers are renowned for their calming and anti-inflammatory properties. Its active flavonoid apigenin binds to brain receptors to promote relaxation and sleep. Clinical and anecdotal evidence suggests chamomile tea can improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety. It also soothes the digestive tract – studies show it may help relieve diarrhea and prevent stomach ulcers.

Topically, chamomile’s bisabolol and other compounds reduce skin redness and irritation. Thus chamomile powder is used in face masks for sensitive or inflamed skin, in bath soaks for calm, or brewed as tea for colds and upset stomach.