General Description
Chamomile is an annual herb native to Europe and western Asia and
naturalized in North America. A member of the daisy family (Asteraceae),
chamomile has a round, branched stem, which grows to approximately
half a meter in height, and pale green, feathery leaves. The flowers
very much resemble daisies, with deep yellow central disks surrounded
by white rays. The flower heads, harvested when the flowers are
mature and expanded, are dried and used for medicinal purposes.
Health Applications
- Digestive support
- Stress/tension
- Inflammation
- Skin irritations (topical)
- Immune system support
History and Traditional Use
Over several centuries, chamomile has gained a reputation in Europe
almost as a panacea, but it was primarily used as a digestive
aid, sedative, and tonic.1 It has also been used as
an antiinflammatory for afflictions of the skin and mucous membranes,
an antispasmodic for menstrual cramps, and an antiinfective for
various minor illnesses.2
Chemical Composition
Chamomile contains volatile oils, flavonoids (including apigenin),
coumarins, and mucilages.3
Contemporary Uses
Germany's Commission E lists chamomile as an approved herb for
internal use in treatment of inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal
tract and for external use in treatment of inflammations of the
skin and mucous membranes as well as bacterial skin diseases.4
Studies indicate that compounds in chamomile have antioxidant,
antiinflammatory, and sedative effects.5-7 Other studies
indicate that topical applications of chamomile may be useful
in treatment of minor wounds and skin conditions.8-10
Dosage/Toxicity
Chamomile is most often consumed as a tea, which can be made by
pouring a cup of boiling water over a heaping tablespoon of the
herb and allowing it to steep for five to ten minutes. For gastrointestinal
complaints a typical dosage recommendation is three or four cups
per day between meals.4 Liquid extracts and capsules
normally have dosage recommendations printed on the label. Chamomile
has no known toxicity or negative side effects; however, it may
cause allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those
with hayfever.11,12 |
