Database Entry: Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla / Chamaemelum nobile)

Scientific Name:

Matricaria chamomilla (German Chamomile), Chamaemelum nobile (Roman Chamomile)

 

Common Names:

Chamomile, German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile, Wild Chamomile, Manzanilla (Spanish)

 

Family:

Asteraceae (daisy family)

 

Parts Used:

Flowers, Leaves, Stems

 

Overview:

Chamomile is a beloved herb known for its calming and soothing properties. It has been used for centuries across cultures, particularly in Western herbalism, to promote relaxation, relieve digestive discomfort, and improve skin conditions. Chamomile is typically found in two main varieties: German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) and Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), each with slightly differing properties but both widely valued for their health benefits.

 

Botanical Description:

Chamomile plants are small, aromatic herbaceous perennials that grow between 15 to 30 cm in height. German Chamomile, the more commonly used variety, has bright white flowers with a yellow center resembling daisies. Roman Chamomile is a low-growing perennial, often used in landscaping due to its pleasant fragrance and flower heads.

 

Active Compounds:

Chamomile contains a range of active compounds, the most important of which include:

• Flavonoids: Apigenin, luteolin, quercetin, and others that possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-anxiety properties.

• Terpenoids: Such as bisabolol and chamazulene, which are particularly valued for their anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and soothing effects.

• Essential Oils: Chamomile’s essential oil, rich in alpha-bisabolol, has demonstrated antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties.

 

Traditional Uses and Benefits:

Chamomile has been cherished for centuries for its therapeutic effects, especially in calming the nerves, promoting sleep, and relieving digestive ailments. Below are some of its key traditional uses:

       1.  Calming and Anxiety Relief:

Chamomile is widely known for its ability to calm the mind and reduce anxiety. Apigenin, a flavonoid found in chamomile, binds to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain, producing mild sedative effects that help ease stress and anxiety. Drinking chamomile tea before bed is a common remedy for insomnia, offering a natural alternative to sleep medications.

       2.  Digestive Health:

Chamomile has been traditionally used to alleviate various digestive issues, including indigestion, bloating, gas, and stomach cramps. It is thought to relax the muscles of the digestive tract, easing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and promoting smooth digestion. The anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile also help soothe inflamed tissues in the digestive system.

       3.  Skin Health:

Chamomile’s soothing properties extend to skincare. The plant’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial actions make it a popular remedy for skin irritation, rashes, eczema, and wounds. Chamomile extracts are used in creams, ointments, and lotions for their ability to reduce redness and calm skin inflammation. Chamomile is often used to treat conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema.

       4.  Anti-Inflammatory Effects:

Chamomile has a long history as an anti-inflammatory herb. Both chamazulene and bisabolol have potent anti-inflammatory actions, making chamomile effective in treating conditions such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and muscle pain. Chamomile teas or compresses are commonly used to soothe inflammatory conditions.

       5.  Immune Support:

Chamomile has mild antimicrobial properties, which can help strengthen the immune system. It is often used to support recovery from common colds, flu, and upper respiratory infections. The herb may help to reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract, ease sore throats, and alleviate congestion.

       6.  Menstrual Health:

Chamomile has been used to relieve menstrual cramps and support menstrual health. It works by relaxing the muscles of the uterus, easing painful cramps, and reducing excessive menstrual bleeding. Its mild sedative effects may also help alleviate mood swings and irritability associated with PMS.

       7.  Eye Health:

Chamomile tea and compresses can be used as a natural remedy for eye strain, conjunctivitis, or other mild eye infections. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of chamomile can reduce redness, swelling, and irritation in the eyes. Chamomile is also commonly used in eyewash formulations to treat eye discomfort.

 

Modern Applications and Research:

Chamomile’s medicinal properties have been validated by numerous scientific studies. Below are some modern uses and research findings:

• Anxiety and Sleep Disorders: A clinical trial published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology found that chamomile extract helped reduce symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The calming effects of chamomile are thought to be connected to its ability to interact with GABA receptors, providing a mild sedative effect without the side effects of prescription medications.

• Digestive Disorders: Research has shown that chamomile can be beneficial in treating conditions like IBS and acid reflux. A 2016 study in the journal Molecules demonstrated chamomile’s potential to reduce intestinal inflammation and soothe stomach ulcers.

• Skin Conditions: Chamomile’s topical use has been studied for its ability to treat eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions. A 2012 study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology indicated that chamomile oil could significantly reduce the severity of atopic dermatitis and promote skin healing.

 

Dosage and Preparation:

Chamomile is typically consumed in the following forms:

• Chamomile Tea: The most common and accessible method of using chamomile, where dried chamomile flowers are steeped in hot water. One to two teaspoons of dried flowers are recommended per cup of hot water.

• Chamomile Extracts and Tinctures: Liquid extracts or tinctures are available in various concentrations. Standard dosages are around 1 to 4 ml of the tincture taken one to three times daily.

• Topical Chamomile: Chamomile creams, ointments, or oils can be applied to the skin for conditions like eczema, acne, or general irritation.

• Chamomile Essential Oil: For topical use, chamomile essential oil is diluted in a carrier oil and applied to the skin to soothe inflammation. Essential oils can also be inhaled to promote relaxation.

 

Side Effects and Precautions:

Chamomile is generally considered safe for most people when used appropriately. However, there are some precautions to consider:

• Allergic Reactions: Chamomile is a member of the daisy family, and individuals with allergies to ragweed, daisies, marigolds, or chrysanthemums may be more prone to allergic reactions. Symptoms may include skin rashes, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Chamomile is generally considered safe in moderate amounts during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but high doses should be avoided. Pregnant women should consult a healthcare provider before using chamomile, as it may have mild uterine-relaxing properties.

• Drug Interactions: Chamomile may interact with certain medications, especially blood thinners (due to its mild anticoagulant effects). It may also interact with sedatives, increasing their effects. Individuals on medications such as warfarin, benzodiazepines, or other sedatives should consult their healthcare provider before using chamomile.

 

Sustainability and Sourcing:

Chamomile is grown in many parts of the world, including Europe, North America, and Asia. It is typically cultivated using organic farming methods, as chamomile is sensitive to pesticides. When purchasing chamomile, it’s essential to seek out products that are certified organic and sustainably sourced to ensure the herb’s quality and environmental impact. Look for certifications like USDA Organic or Fair Trade when selecting chamomile products.

 

Chamomile in Your Herbal Routine:

Chamomile is versatile, making it an excellent herb to incorporate into daily life. Whether in tea form, as an essential oil for relaxation, or as a topical remedy for skin health, chamomile offers a wide range of applications. It’s also ideal for blending with other herbs like lavender and lemon balm to enhance its calming effects or to create a gentle, soothing tea blend.

 

Sources:

• Li, Y., Wang, Y., & Wang, X. (2019). “The Effect of Chamomile Tea on Anxiety: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.” Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 39(6), 602-608.

• Srivastava, J. K., Shankar, E., & Gupta, S. (2010). “Chamomile: A Herbal Medicine of the Past with Bright Future.” Molecules, 15(5), 2944-2961.

• Hosseinzadeh, H., & Younesi, H. M. (2002). “Chamazulene: A Chemotaxonomic Marker in Chamomile.” Phytotherapy Research, 16(7), 603-606.

• Orta, H. B., & Allgood, J. M. (2012). “The Effectiveness of Chamomile in the Treatment of Skin Disorders.” Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 11(7), 826-830.