Main Actions:
- Relaxant
- Carminative
- Antispasmodic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti-allergic
- Bitter
- Vulnerary
- Antimicrobial
- Sedative
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
Scientific interest in Matricaria arises from two perspectives. One is its long history of use as a medicine – it has been an official medicine in a number of pharmacopeia worldwide (internally as an aromatic bitter and externally as a poultice for inflammation)
Externally it is used for treatment of inflammation and irritations of the skin and mucosa: skin cracks, bruises, frostbite, dermatitis and insect bites, and irritation and infections of the mouth, gums, and haemorrhoids.1 Internally for relief of GI-discomfort: dyspepsia, epigastric bloating, impaired digestion, and flatulence; sedation: treatment of restlessness, mild insomnia due to nervous disorders and tension relief. Effectiveness of chamomile may differ from country to country depending on the weather and soil content of the place it grows. For instance chamomile that grow in Germany, known as “German chamomile” is known for its efficacy in treatment of GI-discomfort, however, the chamomile that is cultivated in the United States is not used for treatment of GI- symptoms due to its weak effects.4 Chamomile extract is an effective sedative and helps relax tense muscles associated with nerve disorders. 2 It is also a very powerful anti-inflammatory agent. A moderately new clinical study has shown that chamomile and other plants of the asteraceae family that have apigenin and flavonoid extracts have significantly suppressed a procarcinogen inducible Cox-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase in mouse macrophages. The study concluded that consumption of such plants might be effective in the prevention of carcinogenesis and inflammation.
Dosage:
3-10ml per day in small amount water/juice
Safety Concerns:
Drinking chamomile with a meal may decrease iron absorption to 47%
Avoid use of herbal tinctures when pregnant.
Adverse reactions:
Chamomile is considered a safe herb however there have been a few reported cases of allergic reactions with both external and internal use of the herb, including anaphylaxis however allergic reactions are extremely rare.
Drug Interactions:
Take chamomile tincture 2 hrs away from drugs as it may inhibit P450 cytochrome enzymes which in turn could effect the metabolism of drugs using these for elimination.
Avoid if on Warfarin.
*Our naturopath will consult with you to ensure this is right for you.
*Australia Post & Sendle may be a little slower due to covid delays