CHAMOMILE
Matricaria recutita
Compositae
Chamomile (or camomile) is probably one of the most well known herbs. It's use can
be traced as far back and the early Egyptians, even in nursery rhymes Chamomile is
mentioned, and today, it is the most widely used herb for relaxation in the western world.
Chamomile is really two different plants that are used in western herbalism. Roman
Chamomile (anthemus nobilis) is a perennial, low-growing plant, seldom growing taller than
9 inches with a slightly stronger fragrance than the German Chamomile (matricaria
recutita).
German Chamomile has also been called Wild Chamomile, Sweet False Chamomile, or Mayweed.
But the German Chamomile is an annual plant that is much taller, reaching a height of 2-3
feet, and is less compact. It seems to be the preferred species for medicinal uses.
Both plants have enough common qualities that their confusion is justified. Both have
daisy-like flowers, which bloom from late spring through late summer, feathery-like
foliage and an apple-like fragrance and flavor. The name Chamomile in Greek means
"ground apple". And it's the flowering tops that are harvested and used in
herbal remedies.
Throughout history, Chamomile has been (and still is) used in a variety of ways; healing
baths, teas, poultices, air fresheners, hair rinse, cosmetics, insect repellents, wine
flavoring, dyes, companion planting, pot-pourris, landscaping, and the list goes on. Many
believe that Chamomile is capable of anything.
Research has shown that Chamomile's secret lies in the volatile oil which contain
chamazulene, a-bisabolol, bisabolol oxide, chrysoplenol, jaceidin (anti-inflammatory
properties), apigenin (anti-spasmodic properties), and spiroether and chrysoplenin (both
anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties). Chamomile's list of medicinal uses
include insomnia, anxiety, menstrual cramps, loss of appetite, aches and pains associated
with the "flu", teething, vertigo, migraines, dyspepsia, diarrhea, indigestion,
ulcers, conjunctivitis, motion sickness, loss of appetite, colic, neuralgia, muscle
cramps, inflamed mucus membranes, gastritis, etc.
A hot cup of tea, a bath, steam inhalation, etc., with Chamomile relaxes the whole body
and mind which is extremely beneficial in any of the fore-mentioned ailments. Chamomile
tea along with a Chamomile bath can calm an anxious child or a teething infant. Chamomile
can be used internally or externally mixed with lotions, ointments, inhalations, vapor
baths, etc.
Chamomile is a mild anti-microbial, which helps the body resist or help destroy
micro-organisms and as an anti-catarrhal, seems to help the body remove excess buildup of
mucus in the sinus area, due to colds, hayfever, etc. and by doing that may flush out
infectious organisms in the mucus.
There is, however, an unfavorable characteristic of Chamomile. People who have
sensitivities or allergies to members of the Compositae family, (ragweed, chrysanthemums,
etc.) may experience contact dermatitis or other allergic reactions using Chamomile and
should be cautious when using this herb.
Research on Chamomile seems to prove what ancient and modern Herbalists have known all
along and new uses of Chamomile are being studied. Some studies are showing promise in
using Chamomile in the treatment of cancer and Poliovirus and the anti-fungal properties
of Chamomile are also being researched.
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The information provided is
for educational purposes only and should not be used to prescribe, diagnose, treat or cure
any illnesses or diseases or as a substitute for professional healthcare. If you have a
serious health problem, we strongly recommend that you consult a competent healthcare
provider.
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