Herbal Monograph: Matricaria chamomilla

Family

Asteraceae

Actions

Carminative, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, vulnerary (McKay & Blumberg, 2006)

Energetics

Cooling, slightly drying (Holmes, 1997)

Chemical Constituents

• Essential oil (α-bisabolol, chamazulene, farnesene)
• Flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin, quercetin)
• Coumarins (herniarin, umbelliferone)
• Sesquiterpenes (matricin, which converts to chamazulene)
• Polysaccharides
• Phenolic compounds

The essential oil components, particularly α-bisabolol and chamazulene, along with the flavonoid apigenin, are considered primary active compounds responsible for many of German chamomile‘s biological activities (Srivastava et al., 2010).

Part of Plant Used

Flower heads

Uses

• Supports digestive health
• Promotes relaxation and sleep
• Supports healthy inflammatory response
• Promotes skin health
• Supports menstrual wellness
• Promotes oral health

A comprehensive review by Miraj & Alesaeidi (2016) highlighted German chamomile’s potential in supporting various aspects of health, particularly in digestive and nervous system wellness.

Contraindications

• Known allergy to plants in the Asteraceae family
• Pregnancy (in large medicinal doses)

Side Effects

• Rare allergic reactions
• Potential for mild sedation at high doses

While generally well-tolerated, these side effects have been noted in some individuals (Srivastava et al., 2010).

Interactions with Other Drugs

• May interact with sedative preparations
• May interact with blood-thinning preparations
• Theoretical interaction with hormone therapies

Caution is advised when combining German chamomile with these types of preparations due to potential interactions (Chevallier, 2016).

Dosage

• Tea: 1-4 grams of dried flower heads per cup of boiling water, steeped for 5-10 minutes, up to 3-4 times daily
• Fluid extract (1:1): 1-4 mL, three times daily
• Dry extract (4:1): 300-400 mg, three times daily

Clinical studies have used a wide range of doses, typically 220-1500 mg of chamomile extract daily for various applications (Amsterdam et al., 2009).

Mode of Administration

Oral consumption as tea, capsules, or liquid extract. Topical application in creams, ointments, or as a wash.

Duration of Administration

Can be used long-term when consumed in food amounts. For therapeutic use, consult with a qualified herbalist.

Risks

• Potential for allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family
• Theoretical risk of increased bleeding at high doses
• May cause drowsiness in some individuals

A review by Srivastava et al. (2010) emphasized the importance of considering individual sensitivities when using German chamomile, particularly for those with plant allergies.

Recipes

1. Calming Chamomile Tea

• 1-2 teaspoons dried chamomile flowers
• 1 cup boiling water
• Honey to taste (optional)
  Steep for 5-10 minutes, strain, and enjoy.

1. Chamomile Sleep Tincture

• 1 part chamomile tincture
• 1 part lemon balm tincture
• 1 part passionflower tincture
  Mix equal parts of tinctures. Take 2-3 mL before bedtime.

1. Soothing Skin Compress

• 2 tablespoons dried chamomile flowers
• 1 cup hot water
  Steep for 10 minutes, strain. Soak a clean cloth in the liquid and apply to affected skin areas.

Remember to always consult with a qualified herbalist before incorporating new herbs into your wellness routine, especially if you have existing health concerns or are taking other preparations. if you have existing health concerns or are taking other preparations.

Return to: A Wise Woman’s Guide to Reducing Inflammation with Herbs, Foods, and Lifestyle

References

Amsterdam, J. D., Li, Y., Soeller, I., Rockwell, K., Mao, J. J., & Shults, J. (2009). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of oral Matricaria recutita (chamomile) extract therapy for generalized anxiety disorder. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 29(4), 378-382. https://doi.org/10.1097/JCP.0b013e3181ac935c

Chevallier, A. (2016). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine: 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments. DK Publishing.

Holmes, P. (1997). The energetics of Western herbs: Treatment strategies integrating Western and Oriental herbal medicine (3rd ed.). Snow Lotus Press.

McKay, D. L., & Blumberg, J. B. (2006). A review of the bioactivity and potential health benefits of chamomile tea (Matricaria recutita L.). Phytotherapy Research, 20(7), 519-530. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.1900

Miraj, S., & Alesaeidi, S. (2016). A systematic review study of therapeutic effects of Matricaria recuitta chamomile. Electronic Physician, 8(9), 3024-3031. https://doi.org/10.19082/3024

Srivastava, J. K., Shankar, E., & Gupta, S. (2010). Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with bright future. Molecular Medicine Reports, 3(6), 895-901. https://doi.org/10.3892/mmr.2010.377