Chamomile, German

Christopher Hobbs:

“Chamomile tea is commonly used in many parts of Europe, South America, and Mexico for children with colic and other digestive disturbances, fever, insomnia, and the restlessness and irritability commonly associated with teething. Women have long used chamomile for PMS and menstrual cramps. It has also been recommended as a nervine, for muscle cramps, aches and pains of flu, intestinal cramps and irritation, headaches, motion sickness, and to soothe indigestion and flatulent colic. Steam from the herb can be inhaled for respiratory tract irritation. Externally, chamomile tea is used as an eyewash for conjunctivitis and is included in commercial and homemade creams for skin inflammation, burns, and bites. Chamomile creams and ointments are applied to the skin to help soothe and heal burns and other skin irritations, wounds, diaper rash, and sore nipples. The homeopathic tablets are given to babies for teething and fussiness.

Chamomile, German has a taste of AROMATIC and a temperature of WARM.”

Historical Uses

Historically, German chamomile was commonly used as a remedy for digestive issues, anxiety, skin conditions, and as a mild sedative. Ancient Egyptians and Romans revered chamomile for its calming effects and treated various ailments, especially fevers, and skin issues.

Modern Clinical Uses by Herbalists and Naturopaths

Today, herbalists and naturopaths continue to use German chamomile to address:

• Digestive issues: Relieves symptoms like bloating, gas, and indigestion.
• Anxiety and sleep: Calms the nervous system and promotes restful sleep.
• Skin health: Applied in creams or oils for skin inflammations, rashes, and eczema.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces pain from minor wounds, burns, and muscle pain.

Chemistry and Pharmacology

Chamomile contains over 120 bioactive compounds. The most notable include:

• Apigenin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and mild sedative properties.
• Bisabolol: A terpene alcohol known for its anti-inflammatory and skin-healing effects.
• Chamazulene: An anti-inflammatory compound that gives chamomile oil its characteristic blue color.
• Flavonoids and coumarins: Contribute to chamomile’s anti-inflammatory and calming effects.

Summary of Clinical Trials

Studies have supported chamomile’s effectiveness in reducing anxiety, promoting sleep, and aiding digestion. For example:

• A trial on generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) showed chamomile extract had moderate effects in reducing anxiety symptoms.
• Another trial demonstrated improvements in sleep quality and reduced nighttime awakenings.
• Studies on gastrointestinal health confirmed its effectiveness in alleviating symptoms like bloating and discomfort.

In summary, German chamomile remains a versatile herb with wide-ranging therapeutic applications, substantiated by both traditional use and clinical research.

Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs.