Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)

Chamomile is a member of the daisy family native to Europe and western Asia. Chamomile can promote relaxation and it is a reliable remedy for skin irritation.

ROLE FOR ANTI-AGING:

Chamomile improves tissue regeneration, reduces inflammation, and stimulates the immune-boosting activity of white blood cells, thanks to the action of chemical flavonoids. Both varieties are effective as mild sedatives, although German chamomile appears to have more anti-inflammatory action. In addition to its anti-inflammatory action chamomile also has antispasmodic properties, therefore it may be useful in the treatment of diverticular disorders and inflammatory bowel conditions such as Crohn’s disease. As it relaxes smooth muscle, chamomile may also help to reduce menstrual cramps. The compounds responsible for chamomile’s sleep-promoting properties are still being determined, although a recent study done on apigenin, a flavonoid derived from German chamomile, found clear antianxiety and mild sedative effects.

Chamomile is available as a dried whole herb (to be used as a tea or bath infusion) and in packaged teas, tables, capsules, concentrated drops, tinctures, and extracts. Follow dosage directions on labels

Both oral and topical chamomile products are considered very non-toxic and are gentle enough for use in children, or during pregnancy and lactation. An extremely remote concern is that people with an allergy to some other herb in the daisy family would also be allergic to chamomile. The herb has been reported as being a potential trigger of severe anaphylaxis, for this reason people with allergies to plants of the Asteraceae family (ragweed, aster and chrysanthemums) should avoid using chamomile. The herb may also increase the risk of bleeding or potentiate the effects of warfarin therapy. Chamomile-based skin creams should not come in to contact with the eyes.