German Chamomile

 

Biological Name: Matricaria chamomilla

Family: Compositae

Other Names:  Camomile, matricaria, anthemis, ground apple, Roman camomile, garden camomile, low camomile, whig plant, German camomile, wild camomile

Parts Used: Flowers

Active Compounds:  The flowers of chamomile provide 1-2% volatile oils containing alpha-bisabolol, alpha-bisabolol oxides A & B, and matricin (usually converted to chamazulene).

Other active constituents include the bioflavonoids apigenin, luteolin, and quercetin.

These active ingredients contribute to chamomile's anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and smooth muscle-relaxing effects, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract.

History:

Chamomile has been used for centuries as a medicinal plant, mostly for gastrointestinal complaints. This practice continues today.

Chamomile was supposedly dedicated to the sun by the Egyptians because of its curative value in the treatment of ague. It is used in various parts of the world as a table tea. It was used to regulate monthly periods. It is splendid for kidneys, spleen, colds, bronchitis, bladder troubles, to expel worms, for argue, dropsy, and jaundice. The tea was believed to make an excellent wash for sore and weak eyes and also for other open sores and wounds.

Chamomile was used as a poultice for pains and swellings. Used for hysteria and nervous diseases, prevention of gangrene, for breaking up typhoid and in combination with bittersweet for bruises, sprains, calluses and corns.

Traditional Applications in Herbal Medicine:

Properties of Chamomile:

• Anti-inflammatory
• Antiseptic
• Antispasmodic
• Carminative

Chamomile is useful in the treatment of:

• Blocked tear duct
• Canker sores (mouth ulcers)
• Colic
• Diarrhea
• Eczema
• Gingivitis (periodontal disease)
• Indigestion and heartburn
• Insomnia
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Peptic ulcer
• Skin irritations

Dosage: Chamomile is often taken as a tea that can be drunk three to four times daily between meals. Common alternatives are to use tablets, capsules, or tinctures. Many people take 2-3 grams of the capsules or tablets or 4-6 ml of the tincture three times per day between meals.

Home preparation: Approximately 1/2 ounce of flowers to a pint of water. Boil water separately and pour over the plant material and steep for 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the desired effect. Drink hot or warm, 1 to 2 cups or more per day.

Bath additive: Use 1 pound flowers with 5 quart cold water. Bring to a boil, then steep covered for 10 minutes. Strain and add to bath water. Used as a hair wash it will brighten the hair.

Rubbing Oil: Steep 1 oz fresh or dried flowers in olive oil for 24 hours or more. Strain before using.

FDA lists chamomile as generally regarded as safe. Consult a professional before using any herb.