What is Chamomile?
Other names: Matricaria recutita, German chamomile, true chamomile, Hungarian chamomile
Chamomile is a flowering plant in the daisy family. It is native to Europe and Asia. The flowers are used medicinally.
Chamomile comes in capsule, liquid, and tea form.
Why Do People Use Chamomile?
Chamomile has a long history of use in Europe for digestive ailments. The active constiuents of chamomile have anti-inflammatory properties, and ease spasm and discomfort in the digestive tract.
- Indigestion
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Canker sores
- Colic
- Conjunctivitis, eye irritations
- Crohn's disease
- Diarrhea
- Eczema
- Gingivitis
- Hemorrhoids
- Menstrual disorders
- Migraine
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Peptic ulcer
- Skin irritations
- Ulcerative colitis
- Minor wounds
Safety
Chamomile is part of the Asteraceae plant family, which includes ragweed and chrysanthemum, so people with allergies may react when they use chamomile either internally or topically. Call your doctor if you experience vomiting, skin irritation, allergic reactions (chest tightness, wheezing, hives, rash, itching) after chamomile use.
Chamomile should not be taken during pregnancy or breast-feeding.
Chamomile contains coumarin, a naturally-occurring compound with anticoagulant or blood-thinning effects. It should not be combined with warfarin or other medications or supplements that have the same effect or be used by people with bleeding disorders. It shouldn't be used two weeks before or after surgery.
