Chamomile

Botanical name: Chamomilla recutita; Matricaria recutita

Other common names: German chamomile; true chamomile

Part used: Flowers

Constituents: volatile oil; flavonoids; coumarins; mucilaginous polysaccharides; a bitter principle (matricin)

Actions: sedative, carminative, antispasmodic, analgesic, antiinflammatory and antiseptic

Uses: Though its sedative action is mild chamomile is often used to help alleviate insomnia. The gentle action of chamomile means it can be helpful for fretful children as well as sleeplessness in adults. It has often been used for babies and children with colic and teething problems.

Chamomile decreases spasms of smooth and skeletal muscles, It can be used alongside other herbs for the relief of stomach cramps, bloating and indigestion.

The volatile oil is significantly antiinflammatory and chamomile is useful as a wash in cases of sunburn, or for cuts and scrapes. Research has demonstrated an immune stimulating action which may also help in the treatment of wounds with chamomile.

Preparations: tea, tincture

Research:

The protective effects of chamomile tea on diabetic complications, abstract

Chamomile may improve some of the symptoms of ADHD, abstract

Chamomile promotes faster wound healing than corticosteroids, abstract

Safety: Chamomile is considered non-toxic. However, some people may be allergic to chamomile.