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Chamomile

An herbal ally that is strong enough for adults, yet gentle enough for babies. Calming the nervous system, soothing GI issues, and reducing inflammation - Chamomile is essential in any home apothecary.



There are two varieties of Chamomile that are traditionally used in herbal medicine and cosmetic products - Matricaria chamomilla (German chamomile; Hungarian chamomile) and Chamaemelum nobile (Roman chamomile). Both species look similar, but there are a few key physical differences between them! Not only do appearances differ, but the chemical makeup is a little different as well; making each variety better suited for certain ailments. Although their compounds are slightly different, they can usually be used interchangeability due to both flowers having calming and anti-inflammatory effects.


German: Annual plant. Taller in height. Yellow cone shaped center and larger white petals. The smell is strong, sweet, & herbaceous. The main components are terpenoid and apigenin. Contains 50% chamazulene essential oil (deep blue color), and has a higher flavonoid content overall.


Roman: Perennial plant. Shorter, ground cover. Small white petals & yellow center. The smell is sweet, fruity, & warm. Contains mostly angelic acid and tiglic acid esters. Only has 5% chamazulene essential oils.


For centuries - Chamomile has been used to comfort colicly / teething infants, induce deep sleep, reduce diarrhea symptoms, alleviate skin conditions, and MORE!


Believed to be a sacred herb, Chamomile has been used for thousands of years in Greece, Rome, Egypt, and China. For example: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) literature shows that Chamomile is one of the most commonly used herbal medicines to treat stomach issues, cramps, dermatitis, and minor infections. During the Middle Ages, it was a common remedy for sleeplessness, anxiety, and indigestion. Egyptians deemed it as a gift from the Divine and valued it for skincare, sickness, and as an offering to their God, Ra.


Due to the many documented studies of the healing effects of this flower, 26 countries worldwide have included this plant in pharmacopoeia! In 2000, the USDA gave Chamomile the "Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS)" status and reported that it could be used in over the counter dietary supplements - giving credence to the historic use of the herb.



Plant Family: Asteraceae /Compositae

Energetics: Cooling, Drying, Relaxing

Actions: antioxidant, antimicrobial, antinociceptive, antispasmodic, analgesic, anxiolytic, bitter tonic, carminative, inflammation modulating, nervine sedative

Taste: Bitter, aromatic & sweet

Affinities: Nervous system, Digestive system

Symbolism: "solar herb", happiness/ joy, repel nightmares, rebirth

Parts used: Flowers

Possible uses:

  • Inflamed mucous membranes

  • Mouth ulcers

  • Skin conditions (eczema)

  • Spasms (GI & muscle)

  • Tooth aches

  • Bacterial/ Fungal overgrowth

  • Gas & bloating

  • Headaches

  • Stimulate digestion, bile flow

  • Anxiety, Depression

  • Moodiness, Fussiness, and Irritability in children

  • Emotional tension, stress,

Preparations:

  • Tea (short infusion)

  • Tincture

  • Essential oil (topical / aromatherapy)

  • Poultice

  • Wound / Mouth wash

  • Bath infusion



-- Safety & precautions --


You should not use chamomile if:

  • You have past or present cancer of the breast, ovary, or uterus; or a history of endometriosis or uterine fibroids.

  • You have pollen allergies (especially to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, & daisies)

  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding.

  • You are having surgery - stop taking chamomile at least 2 weeks ahead of time.


Do not use if taking the following:

  • You are taking birth control ( it could make it less effective, use a condom)

  • Avoid using chamomile with other herbal/health supplements that can cause drowsiness.

  • Do not combine with: sleeping pill, narcotic pain medicine, muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety, depression, or seizures.

  • Ask your doctor before consuming if you are taking medications to treat: any type of infection (including HIV, malaria, or tuberculosis); asthma or allergies; cancer; diabetes; erectile dysfunction; heartburn or GERD; high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a heart condition; migraine headaches; psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other autoimmune disorders; or a psychiatric disorder.


The appropriate dose of Chamomile depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for Chamomile. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.



:: Products containing Chamomile ::




Disclaimer:

I am not a medical professional and this web site does not constitute providing medical advice or services. The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. Those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.




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Reiki Office:

2435 Kimberly Rd. Bettendorf, Iowa

email:

amberrootswellness@gmail.com

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