Chamomile: Medicinal Uses, Interactions, Dosage

chamomile

Alternative Names:

Matricaria recutita, Pinheads, Scented Mayweed, Sweet False Chamomile.

Herb Description

Chamomile is one of the oldest garden herbs, with wispy 2-3 pinnate leaves and terminal stalks supporting individual flower heads. For medicinal use, German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is by far the most famous, but Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is also used. These erect annuals belong to the Asteraceae family of sunflowers. Flower heads are the primary parts of plants used in herbal medicine. It is commonly found throughout Europe and temperate parts of Asia. It is widely introduced in the temperate zones of North America and Australia. It typically matures near roadsides, around landfills, and in cultivated areas as a weed.

The ancient Egyptians considered it a universal remedy and even today it is still used to fight illnesses, promote calm and reduce anxiety at bedtime. As an anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and anxiolytic it has a long history of use. Chamomile is naturally caffeine free and can be used as an herbal tea. It stimulates wound healing, resists certain bacteria on the skin, and has a mild calming effect.

Uses and Benefits

Traditionally, chamomile is used for inflammation of the skin, colic or dyspepsia, and anxiety. Both Roman and German chamomile have been used medicinally for hundreds of years and have been adopted as anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and calming agents.

Topically, it is used to cure inflammatory disorders of the skin and mucous membranes, or orally for digestive problems, minor colic and anxiety or nervousness. It is widely used as a beverage, food additive, and flavoring agent, and in cosmetic, bath, and hair products.

In present-day Europe, chamomile supplements, including tinctures, extracts, teas, and ointments, are widely used as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and sedative agents. The extracts are taken to soothe irritation and pain, heal wounds and ulcers, and help prevent and cure cystitis and dental conditions.

Chamomile is used to treat various disorders including:

• bruises
• Waste.
• Skin irritation.
• bread stamp.
• Acne.
• arthritis.
• Burns.
• Skin ulcer.
• wounds.
• digestive disorders.
• Menstrual cramps.
• Premenstrual syndrome.
• Headache.

Side effects

Chamomile is generally considered a safe and gentle herb, and is widely available in food, beverages, and cosmetics. Large doses have been reported to cause mild gastroparesis and emesis.

Symptoms of an occasional allergic reaction may occur, such as itching, rash, swelling, dizziness, breathing problems, which (rarely) can cause angioedema and anaphylaxis. If the patient feels any side effects, please contact the doctor immediately.

Safety during lactation or pregnancy has not been considered. People with a history of allergies to Asteracea or ragweed or plants such as sunflowers, daisies, and chrysanthemums should not use chamomile supplements.

A tea made from Roman chamomile in high concentration has been reported to cause nausea, this reaction is produced by a chemical found in Roman chamomile called antemic acid.

Dose

• Liquid Extract (1:1):

45% alcohol, 1 to 4 milliliters should be used three times a day.

• dry flower:

2 to 4 grams should be used or by infusion three times a day.

• Tincture (1:5):

45% alcohol, 3 to 10 milliliters should be used three times a day.

• Externally:

It should be used from 3 to 10% of the drug in infusions or semisolid preparations three times a day.

Drug interactions

Due to its calming actions, chamomile might increase the blood-thinning effect of Coumadin and similar medications. It is recommended not to use this medication at the same time with alcohol and anti-anxiety medications such as Xanax, Ativan, and Valium.