Chamomile
Matricaria recutita - Chamomile, German chamomile
Chamomile with its delicate, daisy-like flowers and gentle apple like aroma, has been cherished for centuries for its medicinal properties. Chamomile belongs to the Asteraceae family, commonly known as the daisy or aster family. This large family encompasses over 23,000 species, including many well-known flowering plants such as sunflowers, daisies, and asters. Within this family, chamomile stands out for its unique therapeutic qualities.
Medicinal Actions of Chamomile
Chamomile offers a variety of medicinal benefits. It acts as a mild sedative for the nervous system and has anti-spasmodic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and anti-emetic properties. Additionally, it is a carminative, which helps relieve gas, and has anti-microbial and vulnerary properties that promote wound healing. Chamomile also helps prevent ulcers and has anti-allergic effects. These versatile properties make chamomile a valuable herb in natural medicine.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile is a well documented herb that is considered one of the oldest, and most widely used medicinal herbs in the world. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH) over one million cups of chamomile tea are consumed every day. Chamomile is valued for its versatility and gentle effectiveness, even for children. Often consumed as a soothing tea to the nervous system that promotes relaxation and sleep. Chamomile tea is commonly recommended for children experiencing stress, anxiety, or trouble sleeping.
Chamomile is particularly effective for addressing gastrointestinal issues linked to nervous irritability, such as IBS and colitis. Its gentle yet potent properties make it safe for use in children. Chamomile's powerful anti-inflammatory effects render it beneficial for a wide range of conditions. When applied topically, it aids in wound healing and serves as a mild anesthetic, making it helpful for relieving rheumatic and muscular pains, as well as neuralgia.
Warnings
Ragweed allergy - persons sensitive to ragweed may have allergic reactions to chamomile as well as chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies or other members of the Aster family of plants.
While considered safe after the first trimester of pregnancy, excessive consumption of large doses could cause uterine contractions and vomiting. Chamomile is a smooth muscle relaxant and therefore may contribute to miscarriage in pregnant women, especially before 12 weeks.
The Natural coumarin (koo·mr·uhn) and in chamomile may enhance the action of blood thinners.
Chamomile, known as a child’s remedy, not for lack of potency but because it is so well tolerated, may be the most popular herbs for infants and children worldwide. Here at Hope Blooms Botanicals, we have written a Chamomile unit study for children and families to learn together about the wonderful history, botany, properties, uses and more concerning Chamomile. You can check out this unit below!
Until next time - blessings and wholeness to you and yours, JeriAnne
