Chamomile
Chamomile
Chamomile, commonly known as German Chamomile is also referred to as “star among medicinal species”. It is widely grown in India and is best known for its flowers that produce essential oil used in aromatherapy. Commercially, Chamomile oil is used in perfumes, cosmetics, and food industry.
Chamomile tea is rich in antioxidants that improve the brain functions by preventing brain cell damage. Drinking Chamomile tea before going to bed promotes restful sleep and helps in insomnia. It is effective in the common cold due to its antibacterial property. It provides a soothing effect and relieves irritation of the mucous membrane of the nose.
Chamomile is beneficial for the skin. Applying Chamomile topically helps to reduce symptoms of eczema due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Chamomile cream is also used to soothe and heal wounds due to the presence of antioxidants. Inhaling steam containing Chamomile extract is one of the most effective home remedies for managing common cold and sore throat.
Generally, Chamomile is considered safe for internal and external use but it is advisable to avoid its excessive consumption as it might cause drowsiness and vomiting[1-3][22].
Chamomile tea is rich in antioxidants that improve the brain functions by preventing brain cell damage. Drinking Chamomile tea before going to bed promotes restful sleep and helps in insomnia. It is effective in the common cold due to its antibacterial property. It provides a soothing effect and relieves irritation of the mucous membrane of the nose.
Chamomile is beneficial for the skin. Applying Chamomile topically helps to reduce symptoms of eczema due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Chamomile cream is also used to soothe and heal wounds due to the presence of antioxidants. Inhaling steam containing Chamomile extract is one of the most effective home remedies for managing common cold and sore throat.
Generally, Chamomile is considered safe for internal and external use but it is advisable to avoid its excessive consumption as it might cause drowsiness and vomiting[1-3][22].
What are the synonyms of Chamomile?
Matricaria chamomilla, Chamomilla, German Chamomile, Wild Chamomile, Roghan babunah, Gul-babunah.
What is the source of Chamomile?
Plant Based
Benefits of Chamomile
Modern Science View
Chamomile might help manage diarrhea due to its antidiarrheal and antispasmodic properties. It helps in relaxing the smooth muscles of the intestine and reduces the symptoms like stomach pain and cramps associated with diarrhea[5].
Tips for using Chamomile in Diarrhea
a. Take ½ - 1 cup of pineapple and 1 banana.
b. Take 10-15gm (or as per your requirement) of Chamomile powder.
c. Mix them and add 1 cup of coconut milk to it.
d. Blend them properly to make a delicious smoothie.
e. Enjoy it to get rid of the symptoms of stomach and intestinal disorders.
Tips for using Chamomile in Diarrhea
a. Take ½ - 1 cup of pineapple and 1 banana.
b. Take 10-15gm (or as per your requirement) of Chamomile powder.
c. Mix them and add 1 cup of coconut milk to it.
d. Blend them properly to make a delicious smoothie.
e. Enjoy it to get rid of the symptoms of stomach and intestinal disorders.
Modern Science View
Chamomile tea is found to be effective in relieving the symptoms of Common cold-like Sore throat, Cough, Congestion, etc. It has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties which help to relax the respiratory passages and ease breathing. It improves the immune system and fights against infections due to its antimicrobial properties. It also provides a soothing effect and relieves irritation of the mucous membranes in the nose. Inhaling steam containing Chamomile extract also helps in reducing the symptoms of the common cold[6][7].
Modern Science View
Chamomile decoction might help in reducing anxiety due to its anxiolytic properties. It contains constituent named apigenin that suppresses the activity of a chemical messenger (GABA) in the brain that induces anxiety. This helps to calm down the central nervous system and decreases the symptoms of anxiety[6][8].
Modern Science View
Chamomile tea might help manage insomnia due to its sedative properties. It contains certain constituents (apigenin) which provides a relaxing and calming effect on the brain and induces sleep[6].
Tips for using Chamomile in Insomnia
a. Take a few dried flowers of Chamomile in a bowl or kettle.
Pour boiling water over it.
b. Keep it for 5 minutes.
c. Strain the water in a cup using a strainer.
d. You can add honey and mint for adding taste and flavor to it.
Drink this Chamomile Tea once or twice a day to get quick and sound sleep.
Tips for using Chamomile in Insomnia
a. Take a few dried flowers of Chamomile in a bowl or kettle.
Pour boiling water over it.
b. Keep it for 5 minutes.
c. Strain the water in a cup using a strainer.
d. You can add honey and mint for adding taste and flavor to it.
Drink this Chamomile Tea once or twice a day to get quick and sound sleep.
Modern Science View
Chamomile tea might help manage infantile colic due to its antispasmodic property. It inhibits smooth muscle contraction in the baby’s stomach. This relieves muscle spasms and provides relief from the pain associated with colic[6][9].
Modern Science View
Chamomile tea is found to be effective in managing gastrointestinal problems like gas due to its carminative property. It helps in the expulsion of gas from the stomach and reduces flatulence. It also soothes the stomach and provides relaxation to the intestinal muscles[6][10][15].
Modern Science View
Chamomile tea might help reduce menstrual cramps due to its antispasmodic property. It relieves the spasms of involuntary muscles. It inhibits the production of mediators that are involved in pain as well as inflammation and reduces the pain associated with menstrual cramps due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties[6][11].
Modern Science View
Chamomile might be useful in the management of Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) due to its stimulant property. It improves the transmission of messages between the brain and the body that makes a person feel more energetic and confident. It controls impulses and manages the symptoms of Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)[12].
Modern Science View
Chamomile might help in managing the symptoms of travel (or motion) sickness such as nausea and vomiting due to the presence of certain constituents. These constituents have an antiemetic property that prevents vomiting and nausea during traveling[6][13].
Modern Science View
Chamomile helps manage the symptoms of Fibromyalgia due to the presence of certain constituents which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. They inhibit the mediators of pain and inflammation and manages the symptoms associated with Fibromyalgia such as muscle pain and stiffness[14].
How effective is Chamomile?
Likely effective
Anxiety, Colicky pain, Diarrhea
Insufficient evidence
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Common cold, Fibromyalgia, Flatulence (gas formation), Insomnia, Menstrual pain, Motion sickness
Precautions when using Chamomile
Advice from Experts
Important
Modern Science View
Chamomile might interact with anesthesia or other medicines used during surgery. So it is advisable to avoid Chamomile 2 weeks before surgery[4].
Allergy
Modern Science View
Chamomile, when taken by mouth, might cause certain allergic reactions like throat swelling and shortness of breath. So, it is advisable to consult a physician before using Chamomile for internal use[9].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Since enough scientific evidence is not available for the use of Chamomile during breastfeeding. So, it is recommended to avoid or consult a physician before taking Chamomile during breastfeeding[4][9].
Minor Medicine Interaction
Modern Science View
It is advisable to avoid the use of Chamomile along with estrogen and birth control pills as it might decrease the effectiveness of these pills[4].
Moderate Medicine Interaction
Modern Science View
Chamomile might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs. So it is advisable to avoid or consult a physician before using it with anticoagulants[4][9].
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Chamomile contains certain constituents that might alter blood sugar levels. So it is advisable to consult a physician while taking Chamomile along with antidiabetic medications[4][9].
Patients with heart disease
Modern Science View
Chamomile contains certain constituents that might alter blood pressure levels. So it is advisable to consult a physician while taking Chamomile along with antihypertensive medications[4][9].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Chamomile should be avoided during pregnancy as it might act as a uterine stimulant and lead to miscarriage[4][9].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
1. Drowsiness
2. Sedation[4][9].
2. Sedation[4][9].
How to use Chamomile
1. Chamomile Tea
a. Take a few dried flowers of Chamomile in a bowl or kettle.
Pour boiling water over it.
b. Keep it for 5 minutes.
c. Strain the water in a cup using a strainer.
d. You can add honey and mint for adding taste and flavor to it.
e. Drink this Chamomile Tea once or twice a day to get rid of the symptoms of digestive problems, respiratory problems, and menstrual cramps.
2. Chamomile Smoothie
a. Take ½ - 1 cup of pineapple and 1 banana.
b. Take 10-15gm (or as per your requirement) of Chamomile powder.
c. Mix them and add 1 cup of coconut milk to it.
d. Blend them properly to make a delicious smoothie.
e. Enjoy it to get rid of the symptoms of stomach and intestinal disorders.
a. Take a few dried flowers of Chamomile in a bowl or kettle.
Pour boiling water over it.
b. Keep it for 5 minutes.
c. Strain the water in a cup using a strainer.
d. You can add honey and mint for adding taste and flavor to it.
e. Drink this Chamomile Tea once or twice a day to get rid of the symptoms of digestive problems, respiratory problems, and menstrual cramps.
2. Chamomile Smoothie
a. Take ½ - 1 cup of pineapple and 1 banana.
b. Take 10-15gm (or as per your requirement) of Chamomile powder.
c. Mix them and add 1 cup of coconut milk to it.
d. Blend them properly to make a delicious smoothie.
e. Enjoy it to get rid of the symptoms of stomach and intestinal disorders.
Frequently asked questions
Ayurvedic View
Tips to make Chamomile tea
a. Take a few dried flowers of Chamomile in a bowl or kettle.
b. Pour boiling water over it.
c. Keep it for 5 minutes.
d. Strain the water in a cup using a strainer.
e. You can add honey and mint for taste and flavor to it.
f. Serve the delicious tea to get rid of all digestive problems, respiratory problems, and menstrual cramps.
a. Take a few dried flowers of Chamomile in a bowl or kettle.
b. Pour boiling water over it.
c. Keep it for 5 minutes.
d. Strain the water in a cup using a strainer.
e. You can add honey and mint for taste and flavor to it.
f. Serve the delicious tea to get rid of all digestive problems, respiratory problems, and menstrual cramps.
Ayurvedic View
Tips for making Chamomile anti-acne mask
a. Pour hot water over dry Chamomile flowers and let it boil for 20 minutes.
b. After that, strain the liquid and add honey and lemon juice to it.
c. Mix well to make a suitable paste.
d. Apply this paste on a clean face and leave it for 15-20 minutes.
e. Wash it off with normal water.
f. Repeat once a week to get rid of pimples or acne.
a. Pour hot water over dry Chamomile flowers and let it boil for 20 minutes.
b. After that, strain the liquid and add honey and lemon juice to it.
c. Mix well to make a suitable paste.
d. Apply this paste on a clean face and leave it for 15-20 minutes.
e. Wash it off with normal water.
f. Repeat once a week to get rid of pimples or acne.
Modern Science View
Yes, you can drink Chamomile tea regularly. Regular use of Chamomile tea might help maintain blood pressure levels, reduces stress, anxiety, sleep and provides relaxation to the blood vessels[6].
References
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- WebMD.German Chamomile: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
- Mehmood MH, Munir S, Khalid UA, et.al.Antidiarrhoeal, antisecretory and antispasmodic activities of Matricaria chamomilla are mediated predominantly through K+-channels activation.BMC Complement Altern Med.2015;15(75):1-9.
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- Hofmann SG.Psychobiological Approaches for Anxiety Disorders: Treatment Combination Strategies.John Wiley & Sons.2012.
- Ulbrich CE. Natural Standard Herb & Supplement Guide- An Evidence-Based Reference. 2010
- Das M.Chamomile: Medicinal, Biochemical, and Agricultural Aspects.CRC Press.2014.
- Mirabi P, Alamolhoda SH, Esmaeilzadeh S, et.al.Effect of Medicinal Herbs on Primary Dysmenorrhoea- a Systematic Review.Iran J Pharm Res.2014;13(3):757-767.
- Niederhofer H.Observational study: Matricaria chamomilla may improve some symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.Phytomedicine : International journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology.2009;16(4):284-286.
- Sanaati F, Najafi S, Kashaninia Z, et.al.Effect of Ginger and Chamomile on Nausea and Vomiting Caused by Chemotherapy in Iranian Women with Breast Cancer.Asian Pac J Cancer Prev.2016;17(8):4125-4129.
- Mahjoub F, Salari R, Noras MR, et.al.Are Traditional Remedies Useful in the Management of Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome? A Review Study.Journal of evidence based complementary and alternative medicine.2017;22(4):1011-1016.
- Singh O, Khanam Z, Misra N, et.al.Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.): An overview.Pharmacogn Rev.2011;5(9):82-85.
- Khare CP.Indian Herbal Remedies: Rational Western Therapy, Ayurvedic and Other Traditional Usage, Botany.Springer Science & Business Media.2011.
- Sayyar Z, Yazdinezhad A, Hassan M, et.al.Protective Effect of Matricaria chamomilla Ethanolic Extract on Hippocampal Neuron Damage in Rats Exposed to Formaldehyde.Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity.2018.
- Antol MN.Healing Teas: A Practical Guide to the Medicinal Teas of the World -- from Chamomile to Garlic, from Essiac to Kombucha.Penguin.1995.
- Bahmani M, Saki K, Golshahi H, et.al.Ethnobotanical and therapeutic uses of chamomille.J Chem Pharm Res.2015;7(1):640-645.
- Cemek M, Kaga S, Simsek N, et.al.Antihyperglycemic and antioxidative potential of Matricaria chamomilla L. in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.J Nat med.2008;62(3):284-293.
- Ferreira EB, Ciol MA, Vasques CI, et.al.Gel of Chamomile vs. urea cream to prevent acute radiation dermatitis in patients with head and neck cancer: a randomized controlled trial.Journal of advanced nursing.2016;72(8).
- Silva Gomes VT, Silva Gomes RN, Gomes MS, et al.Effects of Matricaria Recutita (L.) in the Treatment of Oral Mucositis.The Scientific World Journal.2018.
- Watson RR.Foods and Dietary Supplements in the Prevention and Treatment of Disease in Older Adults.ACademic press.2015.
- Ravindran PN.The Encyclopedia of Herbs and Spices.CABI.2017.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.