Chamomile (Chamomilla recutita or Matricaria recutita) is a sweetly aromatic plant that is native to Europe, growing to around 2 feet tall with numerous little flower heads with white petals and yellow centers. Coming to full bloom in summer the flowers themselves are harvested and dried to be used in herbal medicine.
Chamomile is one of the safest, most popular natural botanicals available. This is because the flowers, which grow in locations around the world, have a myriad of internal and external uses. Preparations of this botanical flower are commonly used for many ailments, namely hay fever, inflammation, gastrointestinal disorders, ulcers, muscle spasms, menstrual disorders, insomnia, wounds, rheumatic pain, and hemorrhoids. Chamomile is also used in the aroma therapy world as flower essence and essential oils.
The most popular way to use chamomile is as a tea. Used in many tea preparations to induce relaxation and calming, it is good to have a cup before bed to ensure restful sleep.
There are 2 types of tea, German and Roman Chamomile. The most common tea that is available to us as a tea is German Chamomile due to its sweet delicate flavor. Alternatively, Roman Chamomile is a bit more bitter and can induce allergic reactions for some people. For the best flavor steep your tea in very hot (not boiling) water for 5-6 minutes.
In addition to being calming and relaxing, there are many other benefits for your health. Read on to learn more about this delicious and health promoting herb.
Chumazulene, an aromatic chemical compound with the molecular formula C14H16 is found in a variety of plants including in chamomile, wormwood and yarrow. This compound inhibits free radical reactions that activate giant cholesterol filled immune cells called macrophages which form atherosclerotic plaques, in turn activating the number of macrophages available to fight infection. (1)
Studies have found that chamazuline has marked antiallergenic properties that are released when chamomile is placed in hot water. It prevents the formation of inflammatory leukotrienes inhibiting the toxic free radicals which can trigger an allergic response. (2)
The same histamine blocking action by chamazuline also stops stomach irritation and has been used traditionally as a stomach soothing remedy. (3)
This is chamomiles crowning glory. Interestingly, it has been used for centuries as a anti anxiety and stress remedy. Herbalists especially recommend it to promote restful sleep in children. ‘In a open-label phase of a two-phase randomized controlled trial of chamomile versus placebo for relapse-prevention of recurrent general anxiety disorder Chamomile extract produced a clinically meaningful reduction in general anxiety disorder symptoms over 8 weeks, with a response rate comparable to those observed during conventional anxiolytic drug therapy and a favorable adverse event profile.‘(4)
Chamomile flower extract added to skin creams are helpful for managing eczema. Infectious organisms are engulfed and eliminated by increased immune cells produced by the extract, but these cells do not stimulate other immune cells that might aggravate the condition. (5)
A chemical agent found in Chamomile is apigenin, which prevents the production of proteins that allow cancer cells to anchor to new sites. This also decreases inflammatory reactions preventing new tumors from gaining their own blood supplies. (6)
Chamomile not only soothes frazzled emotions it can also soothe inflammation throughout the digestive tract because of it’s anti-inflammatory and antihistamine actions. It also contains a substance that fights the Helicobacter pylori bacteria which is associated most frequently with cases of peptic ulcers.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be a challenging condition. Additionally, chamomile can help with the spasms that accompany IBS and menstrual cramping with its antispasmodic properties. Naturopathic doctors will typically suggest a tea made with chamomile and ginger to help to relieve the symptoms. (8)
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) symptoms can be debilitating. To help alleviate your discomfort try chamomile which contains a chemical called spiroether, a very strong antispasmodic agent. It assists the body by relaxing aching tense muscles and alleviating menstrual pain. (9)
Chamomile is a beautiful well rounded herb that is delicious and beneficial to the body. The effects are cumulative so always use consistently for at least 3-4 weeks to decide for yourself if it is effective to help you with your condition. It can be used in creams and compresses externally for relief of skin irritations or in tinctures and tea for basic ingestion. Choose German Chamomile over Roman Chamomile to avoid possible allergic reactions. Make sure your teas are made with the flower heads only as the potent medicinal qualities are in the flowers.
Benefits of Chamomile
For a FREE printable of Chamomile’s benefits GO HERE
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The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to bolstering and strengthening the body and as a natural, chemical free way to treat disease. Always keep in mind that herbs can trigger side effects and interact with supplements, medications or other herbs,. Herbs should be taken with care, under the supervision of a qualified herbalist or doctor well versed in the field of botanical medicine.
I am not a doctor and do not claim to be. I am a seeker of pure, healthful living. Always talk with your doctor or qualified health care professional before taking any herbal remedies to ensure safety, especially if you are already on medications. The information on this website has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. None of these statements are intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Always consult with your medical practitioner or other qualified healthcare provider.
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