Author: Steve Mathew
Alternative Names:
Matricaria recutita , Pinheads, Scented mayweed, Sweet false chamomile.
Herb Description
Chamomile is one of the oldest garden herbs, with wispy 2 to 3 pinnate leaves and terminal peduncles supporting single flower heads. For medicinal use, German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is by far the most famous, but Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is also used .These erect annual plants belong to the sunflower family Asteraceae . The flower heads are the primary plant parts used in herbal medicine. It is commonly found all over Europe and temperate parts of Asia. It is widely introduced in temperate North America and Australia . It generally matures near road sides, around landfills and in cultivated areas as a weed .
The ancient Egyptians regarded it an universal remedy & even today it is carry on to be used to fight illness, promote calm and ebb anxiety at bedtime. As an anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and anxiolytic it has a long history of use. Chamomile is naturally caffeine-free and can be used as a herbal tea. It boosts wound healing, resists certain bacteria on the skin, and has a mild tranquilizing effect.
Uses and Benefits
Traditionally chamomile used for skin inflammation, colic or dyspepsia, and anxiety . Both Roman & German chamomile have been employed medicinally for hundreds of years & adopted as an anti inflammatory, antispasmodic, and calming agent.
Topically, it is used to cure inflammatory skin and mucous membrane disorders, or orally for minor colicky digestive problems and anxiety or nervousness. It is widely used as a beverage, food additive, and flavoring agent, and in cosmetic, bath, and hair products.
In current Europe, chamomile supplements, including tinctures ,extracts, teas, and salves, are extensively used as antibacterial, anti inflammatory, antispasmodic, and sedative agents. Extracts are taken to lull irritation & pain , heal wounds & ulcers, and aid prevention as well as cure cystitis and dental afflictions .
Chamomile is used to treat various disorders include:
- Bruises.
- Scrapes.
- Skin irritations.
- Joint pain.
- Acne.
- Arthritis.
- Burns.
- Skin ulcer.
- Wounds.
- Digestive disorders.
- Menstrual cramps.
- PMS.
- Headache.
Side Effects
Chamomile is generally considered as a mild and safe herb, and it is extensively available in foods, beverages, and cosmetics. Large doses has reportedly cause mild gastroparesis and emesis.
Symptoms of an occasional allergic reaction such as itching, rash , swelling, dizziness, breathing problem may occur, which may (rarely) cause angioedema and anaphylaxis. If patient feel any side effects, contact to doctor promptly.
Safety during breast feeding or pregnancy has not been accounted. Individuals with a history of allergies to Asteracea or ragweed r plants such as sunflowers, daisies, chrysantheArticle Source: http://www.articlesbase.com
About the Author
Steve Mathew is a writer, who writes many great articles on conditions, diseases and various other ailments. For more information on Black Chamomile, visit http://www.online-health-care.com.
