Chamomile
Botanical Name:
Matricaria Recutita
Other Names:
Common uses of
Chamomile
Allergies, Anxiety, Anxiety / Stress, Blood sugar regulation, Breastfeeding, Childbirth, Cold and flu, Colic, Dermatitis, Diabetes, Digestion, Digestive complaints, Eczema, Fever, For Children, Gastrointestinal disorders, Harm reduction from cannabis, Harm reduction opiates/alcohol, Headache, Heart palpitations, Indigestion, Infections, Inflammation, Miscarriage, Nausea, Nervous system, Nicotine and drug withdrawal, Pain, Relaxation, Restlessness, Stress, Sugar metabolism, Tension, Trauma (Emotional), Upset stomach,
Actions of
Chamomile
Anodyne, Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial, Antispasmodic, Anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), Bitter Tonic, Carminative, Nervine, Vulnerary,
Preparation
About
Chamomile
Chamomile one of the most widely known and popular herbal teas. It is an excellent digestive and relaxing remedy, and is also an effective antispasmodic. Chamomile has a powerful effect on the nervous system, helping alleviate psychological anxiety and physiological symptoms of stress.
Chamomile can be used to ease digestive problems, to treat colds and allergies, and also relaxes the peripheral nerves and muscles. It is famous as a remedy (as a tea as well as a homeopathic) for anxious or irritated babies, teething pain and colic. For hay fever and sinus congestion, it can be used as a facial steam.
Chamomile is even said to be medicinal to other plants – try placing a chamomile plant next to a sick plant or use chamomile tea to water your sick plants.
2-3 tsp/cup, steep covered 10 mins (1/2 tsp for children/babies). Drink freely.
Cautions
Avoid if allergic to Asteraceae/Compositae plants chrysanthemums, daisies, marigolds, ragweed.
Sources
David Hoffman (2003), Medical Herbalism, pp. 565, Mathew Wood (2008) The Earthwise Herbal pp. 177.