How to Use Chamomile in a Compress
A compress is used to treat inflammations, rashes or other topical skin irritations. In some cases, using a compress can take the place of internal medicines. The flowering chamomile plant can be used in compresses to treat skin irritations, from swelling to rashes.Things You'll Need
- Chamomile flowers
- Cotton cloth
- Surgical tape or Clingfilm
- Elastic or cloth bandages
- Chamomile tea bags
Instructions
Use a Large Chamomile Compress
Unfold your cotton cloth on a large, flat surface.
Place the chamomile flowers in the center of the cloth. Add any other herbal remedies you might want in the compress. Garlic and onions are commonly used in compresses.
Wrap the edges of the cotton cloth around the chamomile flowers. Create a pocket with the chamomile inside.
Seal the cotton cloth around the chamomile by using surgical tape or Clingfilm.
Apply the chamomile compress to your inflamed skin, cotton-side down. Make sure that Clingfilm or surgical tape is not touching the irritated skin. This can make wounds or skin inflammations even worse.
Secure the compress by wrapping it in a bandage. Elastic or cloth bandages will work. Make sure that it's pulled tightly enough to hold the compress in place, but not so tightly that it inhibits blood circulation.
Leave the compress in place. The nourishing power of the chamomile flowers will seep through the cotton bandage, treating and healing your irritated skin.
Use a Small Chamomile Compress for an Inflamed Eye
Submerge an instant chamomile tea bag in water. Leave it there for at least 3 minutes.
Dump out the water and gently squeeze the tea bag. This will eliminate any excess water.
Refrigerate the chamomile tea bag for 15 to 30 minutes. Once it's cooled, remove it from the refrigerator.
Hold the cool tea bag against an inflamed eye for up to 5 minutes at a time
Allow your inflamed eye to breathe for 1 hour before attempting to re-apply a chamomile compress.