Chamomile

Chamomile

Matricaria chamomilla

Historical Background

Dried chamomile flower is an age-old herbal remedy known in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Chamomile's popularity grew throughout the Middle Ages, when people turned to it for numerous wellness needs including digestive support, respiratory comfort, nervous system calm, skin health, and overall vitality. As a popular traditional remedy, it may be thought of as the European counterpart of ginseng.

Extensive research over the past 20 years has identified chamomile's specific anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-allergenic, and calming properties, validating its long-held reputation. Nowadays, chamomile is included in wellness preparations in 26 countries worldwide.

Rob McCaleb, President of the Herb Research Foundation in Boulder, Colorado, estimates that over one million cups of chamomile tea are consumed worldwide each day, making it probably the most widely consumed herbal tea.

Active Constituents

The plant's wellness-supporting properties come from its daisy-like flowers, which contain:

Volatile Oils: Including bisabolol, bisabolol oxides A and B, and matricin, which contribute to its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

Flavonoids: Particularly a compound called apigenin, which supports relaxation and calm.

Other Therapeutic Compounds: Various constituents that work synergistically to provide chamomile's traditional benefits.

Properties

Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-allergenic, antispasmodic, calming, digestive support, mild sedative, antiseptic, carminative, skin-soothing.

Traditional Uses

Chamomile may be used internally or externally and has been traditionally employed to support:

Relaxation and Sleep: Chamomile has been used for centuries as a mild, relaxing sleep aid. Its calming and muscle-relaxing effects may help those who experience occasional sleeplessness to fall asleep more easily. It helps promote general relaxation and ease daily stress.

Digestive Comfort: Chamomile's anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic actions help relax the smooth muscles lining the stomach and intestine. The herb may help support comfortable digestion, ease occasional heartburn and gas, and support healthy digestive function. It has been traditionally used for various digestive concerns and to support overall gastrointestinal wellness.

Women's Wellness: Chamomile's ability to support smooth muscle relaxation helps ease the discomfort of occasional menstrual cramping. It may also help support comfort during morning wellness needs.

Skin Health: Used as a lotion or added in oil form to a cool bath, chamomile may ease skin discomfort and redness, supporting healthy skin. It may also support natural healing processes. The herb has been traditionally used for various skin concerns including minor irritations and redness.

Respiratory Support: As a steam inhalation or tea, chamomile supports respiratory comfort and seasonal wellness.

Eye Comfort: Cooled chamomile tea can be used in a compress to help soothe tired eyes and support eye comfort.

Oral Health: A chamomile mouth rinse may help support healthy gums and oral comfort.

Joint Comfort: The herb's anti-inflammatory properties have been traditionally used to support joint comfort and ease.

Allergy Support: Chamomile may help support the body's natural response to seasonal changes, functioning similarly to natural antihistamine support.

How to Use

As a Tea: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers in hot water for 5-10 minutes. May be consumed up to 3-4 times daily. This is the most popular and traditional preparation method.

As a Compress: Strong chamomile tea can be applied topically to support skin comfort and health.

As a Steam Inhalation: Use for respiratory comfort support.

As a Mouth Rinse: Cooled tea can support oral health and comfort.

Available Forms: Dried flowers, Powder, capsules.

Key Traditional Applications

Chamomile has been traditionally used to support:

  • Restful sleep and relaxation
  • Stress relief and calm
  • Comfortable digestion
  • Relief from occasional gas and heartburn
  • Women's monthly comfort
  • Healthy, comfortable skin
  • Minor skin irritations and redness
  • Eye comfort
  • Respiratory wellness
  • Oral health
  • Joint comfort
  • Seasonal wellness
  • Overall relaxation and wellbeing

Important Notes

Chamomile is generally considered very safe and gentle, even for children when used appropriately. However, those with allergies to plants in the daisy family should use caution. As with all herbs, consult with a healthcare practitioner if pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products.