Consumed for centuries as a natural remedy for several health conditions, Chamomile flowers have been dried and drunk as tea throughout the ages. The infusion makes for an excellent caffeine-free alternative to black or green tea and for its earthy, sweet taste.
Interesting to note, there are several types of chamomile flowers like Roman Chamomile, German Chamomile, Moroccan chamomile, Yellow chamomile, Wild chamomile, Egyptian chamomile.
Teas, however, are prepared only from Roman, German and Egyptian lot.
1. Egyptian Chamomile
Source: Lovingly stewarded in the lush Nile River Valley in Egypt, this variety is considered as the highest grade. Pure Egyptian chamomile tastes much more smooth than flowers from other sources. In Ancient Egypt, Chamomile was used to honor the gods, embalm the dead, and cure the ill.
Uses: Egyptian Chamomile is the queen of relaxing herbs. It may works a sleep aid; the benefits of chamomile are derived through its antispasmodic properties, might helps to relax muscular and nervous tension. It may helps those with insomnia, anxiety and comes in handy for the restless.
Taste: Simplicity in a cup, its flavor profile and a warm, earthy, floral experience is unmatched in the world of tisanes. The Egyptian Chamomile produces a gorgeous deep-yellow cup and it is caffeine-free!
2. German Chamomile
Source: It is an herb that is native to Southern and Eastern Europe. The herb smells slightly like apple, and is popular throughout the world. The name “chamomile” is Greek for “Earth Apple”. German chamomile was used to make beer in West Asia & Eastern Europe.
Uses: People have used German chamomile for diarrhea, indigestion and heartburn. Some people might use German Chamomile for irritation of the skin, mouth sores and many other conditions. Inhaling steam from German Chamomile infusion may relieve common cold symptoms.
In foods and beverages, German chamomile is used as flavoring. In manufacturing, German chamomile is used in cosmetics, soothing creams & balms, soaps, and mouthwashes.
Taste: The German chamomile flowers give off a strong, herbal and sometimes pungent scent. Thus, its use is more relevant in brewing and manufacturing purposes.
As we compare the two varieties, both being rich in therapeutic properties, it becomes clear that infusion made out of Egyptian Chamomile comes across far more relevant, beneficial, and yet appealing to olfactory senses. It is rather easy to find a wide variety of blends with Egyptian Chamomile online and on other market platforms.