Chamomile

Chamomile has a long-standing traditional use across cultures and is especially favored for children and sensitive populations due to its gentle nature. Often consumed as a tea, tincture, or used in salves and creams. Topically, we incorporate chamomile oil extract into our therapeutic salves and skin preparations to enhance healing, reduce inflammation, and soothe irritation.

Other names:	German Chamomile (Matricaria recutita), Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), English Chamomile, Wild Chamomile, Manzanilla, Ground Apple, Whig Plant
Characteristics:	Chamomile refers to two distinct species: German Chamomile (annual) and Roman Chamomile (perennial), both used medicinally for similar purposes. Chamomile has a sweet, apple-like scent and has been traditionally used for its calming, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties both internally and topically.
Therapeutic use:	Soothes anxiety and nervous tension Eases digestive discomfort (e.g., indigestion, gas, bloating) Reduces menstrual pain and muscle spasms Supports wound healing and treats minor infections Relieves skin irritation, eczema, and rashes
Evidence/studies:	Several clinical studies show effectiveness in reducing generalized anxiety disorder symptoms (apigenin binds to benzodiazepine receptors). Demonstrated efficacy in functional dyspepsia and infant colic. Topical studies support its use for dermatitis and wound healing.
Parts used:	Dried flower heads
Constituents:	Volatile oils: chamazulene, alpha-bisabolol, bisabolol oxides Flavonoids: apigenin, luteolin, quercetin Coumarins: herniarin, umbelliferone
Actions:	Anti-inflammatory Antispasmodic Carminative Mild sedative Antiseptic Vulnerary (promotes wound healing) Antioxidant
Indications:	Anxiety and insomnia Gastrointestinal disturbances (IBS, colic, nausea) To prevent stomach ulcers (not indicated if ulcers are already present) Menstrual cramps Dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis Minor wounds and burns Teething discomfort in infants (German chamomile, not Russian or Roman)
Contraindications:	Known allergy to plants in the Asteraceae family (ragweed, daisies, chrysanthemums) Caution with strong anticoagulants due to potential blood-thinning effects (theoretical)
Adverse effects:	Rare allergic reactions, especially in sensitive individuals: It may affect those who have allergies to asters, daisies, chrysanthemums, or ragweed. Contact dermatitis from topical use in those allergic to related plants.
Toxicity:	Considered non-toxic and safe for general use High doses may cause vomiting or drowsiness
Additional info:	Chamomile has a long-standing traditional use across cultures and is especially favored for children and sensitive populations due to its gentle nature. Often consumed as a tea, tincture, or used in salves and creams. Topically, we incorporate chamomile oil extract into our therapeutic salves and skin preparations to enhance healing, reduce inflammation, and soothe irritation.
Daily Therapeutic Dose:	Tea: 1–2 grams of dried flowers in 150 mL boiling water, steeped for 10–15 minutes, up to 3–4 times daily Tincture: 3–6 mL (1:5 in 45% alcohol) up to 3 times daily Topical: Creams/salves containing 2–10% chamomile extract as needed

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