Chamomile flowers possess a strong and distinctive aromatic odour and
taste. They are tonic, stimulating, and soothing, and are excellent
for strengthening digestion. When made into a beverage and taken
between meals, they check fermentation and flatulence, and are
especially good for children suffering from summer diarrhœa. The German
flowers are said to be less bitter and more laxative than the English
or Italian varieties.
Chamomile Infusion.
Add ½ ounce of the flowers to a pint of boiling water, allow to stand
in a covered vessel for two hours, strain and, when cool, take a
wineglassful before meals. The addition of a little liquorice root or
juice removes the bitter taste.
Chamomile Tea.
Take six heads of chamomile flowers, a little bruised ginger, add six
ounces of boiling water, allow to stand a few minutes, strain, and
drink, hot or cold, as desired. This is a good remedy for children.