Chamomile

Species name: Anthemis nobilis, known as Roman chamomile; and Matricaria recutita, known as German chamomile.

Also known as: German chamomile, true chamomile, Hungarian chamomile.

Chamomile is a flowering plant in the daisy family whose flowers are used medicinally as an herb. It is native to Europe and Asia but is commonly used around the world.

One of its most common forms is as a tea which you may remember from the story of Peter Rabbit when he got a tummy ache after eating in Mr. McGregor’s garden.  So where does this herb come from and what else can it be used for?

What is Chamomile: Just what is chamomile? Both Roman and German chamomile plants are fairly short. Roman reaches a height of 8-12 inches (20-30 cm.) and German 6-24 inches (15-60 cm.). The flowers of both are comprised of white petals arrayed around a yellow disk.

Roman chamomile is a perennial, while German chamomile is an annual. The former prefers cool weather, while the latter grows well almost anywhere. Chamomile is planted both as an herb among other herbs, and as a lawn plant, for which it requires a fair amount of maintenance. Chamomile is valued for the sweet scent that is released when it is trod upon.

Home Remedies using Chamomile:

Benefits of Chamomile:

There are many great benefits to chamomile with human use. It can be used as a mild, relaxing sleep aid, treatment for fevers, colds, stomach ailments, and as an anti-inflammatory.

Some common uses for chamomile medicinally include as an antipeptic, antispasmodic, antipyretic, antibacterial, antifungal, and for treating antiallergenic activity. This herb is basically easy to take as it can also be used in a soothing, tea form. There are few, if any, side effects to taking chamomile.

Uses of Chamomile:

  • 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
  • Chamomile comes in capsule, liquid, and tea form

Side Effects of Chamomile:

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.

Could cause vomiting, skin irritation, allergic reactions (chest tightness, wheezing, hives, rash, itching).