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Chamomille

Botanical Name

Matricaria chamomilla

Common Name

Chamomile, camomile, German chamomile, Hungarian chamomile, manzanilla, scented mayweed, sweet false chamomile, true chamomile, wild chamomile

Family

Asteraceae

Parts Used

Flower head

Native To

Southern and eastern Europe

Harvesting Guidelines

Chamomile flowers are harvested during the spring and summer months over a period of two months. The flowers consist of a central yellow disc and white ray florets, forming a composite head. The flowering process starts with the outer florets and gradually progresses toward the center. The ideal time to harvest chamomile is when the flowers have bloomed halfway up the head. Picking the flowers too early leads to immature flowers, while waiting too long causes over-mature flowers that fall apart during drying, which can degrade the quality and appearance of the dried flowers.

Chamomile, specifically German chamomile, is a widely-used herb recognized for its therapeutic benefits and pleasant aroma. This gentle herb, belonging to the Asteraceae family, is particularly noted for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. The name "chamomile" comes from the Greek word khamaimēlon, meaning "ground apple," due to its distinctive apple-like scent. Its therapeutic history dates back to ancient civilizations, and it continues to be a common remedy for various ailments today.

Traditional and Modern Uses

Chamomile has long been used as a remedy for digestive discomfort, including bloating, indigestion, and spasms. It is also known for its calming properties, which have made it popular for promoting relaxation and better sleep. Chamomile has mild sedative effects, and it is commonly consumed in tea form before bed to help with insomnia or anxiety.

In addition to its use in sleep and digestive health, chamomile is highly regarded for its topical applications. It has been traditionally used to treat minor skin irritations such as sunburn, rashes, and superficial wounds due to its anti-inflammatory and vulnerary actions. Furthermore, chamomile is beneficial in mouth care, commonly used as a mouthwash to soothe sore throats and minor oral inflammations.

Chamomile has also been historically used as a "mother herb" in various European cultures due to its role in childbirth and postnatal care. It was recommended to ease menstrual cramps, promote uterine health, and assist in recovery after childbirth.

Scientific Studies and Findings

Chamomile's effectiveness as a remedy for digestive issues is supported by several studies. A clinical trial published in Phytomedicine (2010) found that chamomile extracts were effective in reducing symptoms of indigestion and gastrointestinal discomfort. The study highlighted chamomile's antispasmodic and carminative effects, making it an excellent choice for treating abdominal cramps and bloating. Additionally, chamomile is known for its anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties, supported by studies showing that it can reduce symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder and improve sleep quality (Amsterdam et al., 2009).

Research has also confirmed chamomile's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. A study in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2013) reported that chamomile extracts demonstrated significant reductions in inflammation and oxidative stress, which could explain its use for treating conditions like eczema, ulcers, and other inflammatory conditions.

Chamomile essential oil, known for its soothing properties, is also widely used in aromatherapy. Studies indicate that inhaling chamomile essential oil may have beneficial effects on stress levels, with some clinical evidence suggesting that it can help reduce cortisol levels and promote relaxation.

Historical Uses and Folklore

Chamomile’s use as a remedy dates back to at least the 1st century CE, when the Greek physician Dioscorides mentioned it in his famous work De Materia Medica. Chamomile was often used in antiquity to treat a variety of ailments, from digestive issues to skin problems. Its association with healing is also seen in folk traditions, where it was considered a panacea, or universal cure, for various ailments.

In medieval Europe, chamomile was referred to as "mother herb" due to its use in promoting uterine health and during childbirth. It was also known as the "maiden flower" because of its role in menstrual health and its association with fertility. Its calming effects have made it a staple in remedies for nervousness and insomnia.

Chamomile and Modern Herbalism

Chamomile remains a cornerstone in modern herbalism. Its uses span digestive health, emotional wellbeing, and skin care. While chamomile is best known for promoting relaxation and easing digestive issues, it is also a potent anti-inflammatory and mild analgesic. Chamomile is often used in combination with other herbs, such as skullcap and wild lettuce, to enhance its calming effects and improve sleep quality.

Chamomile is frequently included in teas for its mild sedative properties, and it is also used in creams, lotions, and ointments for its anti-inflammatory and soothing effects. A popular herbal tea blend includes chamomile with fennel and tulsi (holy basil), which enhances its digestive and calming properties.

Adult Dose (4)

Tincture: 1-4 mL (1:5, 40%) 3x/day.
Tea: 1 cup (2-3 teaspoons dried herb in 8 fl oz boiling water) 3-4x/day.
Compress: 3-10 g dried flowers in 100 mL water made into an infusion and applied to the skin with a soaked dressing.
Mouthwash: 1-5 g in 100 mL water made into an infusion; rinse and gargle several times per day (European Medicines Agency, 2015).
Bath additive: 15-30 mL fluid extract (1:2, 70%) per 5 L warm water for partial baths (e.g., a sitz bath or foot bath) several times per day.

Safety

Chamomile is considered a safe herb for most individuals, with few reported side effects when used within the recommended dosages. It is suitable for children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers. However, there are important precautions to note:

Allergic reactions: Chamomile can cause allergic reactions, especially in people sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family (e.g., ragweed, daisies). Symptoms may include skin rashes, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
Interaction with blood thinners: Chamomile may increase the effects of anticoagulant medications, increasing the risk of bleeding.
Iron absorption: Chamomile may reduce the absorption of iron, so it is advised to avoid taking it simultaneously with iron supplements or meals rich in iron, especially for individuals with anemia.
Anaphylaxis: Although rare, chamomile enemas have been linked to anaphylaxis-related fatalities. A documented case involved a woman in labor who went into allergic shock, and her newborn died of asphyxia the following day (European Medicines Agency, 2015).

Actions

Anti-inflammatory,Antispasmodic,Anxiolytic,Bitter,Carminative,Nervine,Sedative,Vulnerary

Energy

Cooling,drying

References:

Marzell, H. (2002). Geschichte und Volkskunde der Deutschen Heilpflanzen [History and folklore of German medicinal plants] (2nd ed.). St. Goar, Germany: Reichl Verlag.
Dioscorides. (2000). De Materia Medica (T.A. Osbaldeston & R.P.A. Wood, Trans.). Johannesburg, South Africa: Ibidis Press. (Original work published 70 CE)
HerbRally. (n.d.). Chamomile. Retrieved from https://www.herbrally.com/monographs/chamomile
Hoffmann, D. (2003). Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press.
European Medicines Agency. (2015). European Union Herbal Monograph on Matricaria recutita L., Flos. Retrieved from https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/herbal-monograph/final-european-union-herbal-monograph-matricaria-recutita-l-flos_en.pdf
Amsterdam, J. D., Li, Y., Soeller, I., & Rockwell, K. (2009). Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 29(4), 379-385.
Isenmann, E., & Ackermann, L. (2013). Chamomile: Traditional and modern uses. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 13, 1-11.

Information offered on Achula and on this page is for educational purposes only. Achula makes neither medical claim, nor intends to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Women who are pregnant or nursing, and persons with known medical conditions, should consult their licensed healthcare provider before taking any herbal product. Links to external sites are for informational purposes only. Achula neither endorses them nor is in any way responsible for their content. Readers must do their own research concerning the safety and usage of any herbs or supplements.

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