Chamomilla – Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Composition And More

What is Chamomilla?

Chamomilla, also known as chamomile, is a plant from the Asteraceae family, which also includes daisies and sunflowers. The plant features small white petals surrounding a yellow center, with a thin stem that can grow up to 3 feet tall. There are two main types of chamomile used today: German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile).

Chamomilla has a long history as a traditional medicine used by ancient civilizations, such as the Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians. These cultures used dried chamomile flowers and their essential oils to calm anxiety and soothe stomach issues.

In modern times, chamomile is found in various forms, such as capsules, tablets, liquid extracts, oils, and skin creams. It is popular for its anti-inflammatory properties and is often used in cosmetics to help with wound healing and skin soothing.

Chamomilla Chemical Constituents

Chamomilla, or chamomile, is a plant well-known for its therapeutic properties. The plant’s chemical constituents play a significant role in its medicinal uses. Let’s explore the main chemical compounds found in chamomilla.

• Essential Oils: Chamomile contains 10% to 15% essential oil, which includes a complex mix of sesquiterpenes, such as alpha-bisabolol and farnesene, and sesquiterpene lactones like chamazulene. These oils are key to chamomile’s soothing and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Phenolic Compounds: Chamomilla flowers are rich in phenolic compounds. These include hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives and flavonoids like apigenin, luteolin, and chamaemeloside, which contribute to the plant’s antioxidant properties.
• Coumarins: Chamomilla also contains coumarins, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant effects. Coumarins are important in many of chamomilla’s medicinal uses.
• Mucilages: Mucilages are another important component, providing a soothing effect on the skin and mucous membranes. This makes chamomilla useful in treating various skin conditions.
• Other Constituents: Additional constituents include phenol carboxylic acids, amino acids, phytosterols, choline, and mineral substances. These compounds support chamomilla’s overall therapeutic properties.

Chamomilla Preparation

Chamomilla is a versatile herb used in various preparations for its numerous health benefits. Let’s explore the different ways to prepare chamomilla;

• Chamomile Tea: This tea helps reduce muscle spasms but has low levels of anti-inflammatory compounds found in the essential oil. Chamomile tea is made by steeping chamomile flowers in hot water. To prepare it:
  • Add one heaped teaspoon (3 grams) of chamomile flowers to 150 mL of boiling water.
  • Cover the mixture and let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
  • Strain the tea to remove the flowers.
• Tincture and Extracts: Chamomile tinctures and extracts are made by soaking dried chamomile flowers in a mixture of ethanol and water. For tinctures, use a 1:5 ratio of ethanol to water. After soaking, the mixture is evaporated. Tinctures are taken in place of tea, with 10 to 15 drops added to water for use as a gargle. Extracts use a 1:1 ratio of ethanol to water, which is then dried and concentrated. These extracts are used in gels, ointments, creams, tablets, and capsules.
• Essential Oil: Chamomile essential oil is obtained through steam distillation of the flowers, which contain the highest oil concentration. This oil is deep blue and has a sweet, grassy smell. The oil must be stored carefully to prevent oxidation and maintain its therapeutic value. Chamomile essential oil is used in aromatherapy, massages, and baths, where it is absorbed through the skin or inhaled.

Chamomilla’s various preparations make it a highly beneficial herb for both internal and external use.

Chamomilla Mother Tincture

Chamomilla, or chamomile, is widely used in homeopathy for its healing properties. The preparation of Chamomilla mother tincture involves extracting the medicinal components of the chamomile plant using a mixture of alcohol and water.

Step-by-Step Process of Preparing Chamomilla Mother Tincture

Here is the step-by-step process to prepare Chamomilla mother tincture;

Step 1: Gather the Materials

Collect the necessary chamomile plant material, which can be either fresh or dried. Ensure you have a sufficient amount of ethanol (alcohol) and water to prepare the tincture.

Step 2: Prepare the Plant Material

For fresh plants, clean and chop the chamomile flowers. If using dried plants, ensure they are finely ground to increase the surface area for extraction.

Step 3: Soak the Plant Material

Mix the plant material with enough 50% ethanol to cover it completely. Let the mixture stand for about 15 minutes to allow the ethanol to penetrate the plant material.

Step 4: Maceration (Old Method)

Place the soaked plant material into a large container for maceration. This process involves leaving the mixture to stand for 24 hours to extract the medicinal properties. This method is suitable for large quantities and ensures thorough extraction, but it takes a longer time.

Step 5: Percolation (New Method)

Alternatively, use the percolation method for a quicker process. Place the soaked plant material into a percolator, a special vessel designed for this purpose. Close the bottom orifice and let the mixture stand for 24 hours. Afterwards, open the orifice and allow the liquid to drip slowly at a rate no higher than 1 mL per minute. Continue adding small amounts of 50% ethanol until you collect 500 mL of tincture.

Step 6: Filtration

After maceration or percolation, filter the liquid to remove solid particles. This ensures the tincture is clear and ready for use.

Step 7: Storage

Store the collected tincture in dark bottles to protect it from light, which can cause decomposition. Keep the bottles refrigerated at temperatures between 2 to 8°C to maintain the tincture’s potency and prevent solvent loss.

Benefits of Chamomilla

Chamomilla is a popular herb celebrated for its numerous health benefits. This versatile plant is used in various forms, including teas, oils, and tinctures, to promote wellness and treat a variety of ailments. Below are the benefits of Chamomilla in detail;

1. Anxiety Relief: Chamomile is known to help reduce anxiety. Drinking chamomile tea can have a calming effect, helping people feel more relaxed and less stressed.
2. Better Sleep: It is often used as a natural remedy for insomnia. Its calming properties can help improve sleep quality and make it easier to fall asleep.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Chamomilla contains compounds that reduce inflammation, making it useful for treating skin irritations, muscle pain, and other inflammatory conditions.
4. Pain Relief: Chamomilla oil can help relieve pain. It has been shown to ease symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, such as pain and stiffness when applied to the skin.
5. Antimicrobial Effects: This flower can help fight bacteria. It is used to treat infections in the mouth, gums, and skin. It also helps with respiratory tract inflammations.
6. Digestive Aid: Chamomilla helps soothe the digestive system. It can reduce stomach cramps, bloating, and gas. Chamomilla tea is often used to treat colic in babies and diarrhea in children.
7. Skin Health: It is good for the skin. It helps treat skin conditions like eczema and rashes. Adding chamomile to baths can soothe skin inflammations.
8. Oral Health: The herb helps maintain oral health. It is used in mouthwashes to treat gum inflammation and oral infections.
9. Respiratory Relief: Chamomile can relieve symptoms of respiratory tract inflammations. Inhaling chamomile steam helps soothe the throat and clear nasal passages.

What Does Chamomilla Treat?

Chamomilla has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments. This herb is celebrated for its soothing and healing properties. Let’s explore what Chamomilla can treat;

1. Skin Conditions: Chamomilla helps treat wounds, ulcers, eczema, and burns. It reduces inflammation and soothes irritated skin. It’s also used to treat diaper rash, cracked nipples, and other skin irritations.
2. Digestive Issues: Chamomilla is effective in treating gastrointestinal problems like indigestion, diarrhea, and gas. It helps reduce stomach cramps and can relieve colic in babies.
3. Anxiety and Sleep Disorders: Chamomilla is known for its calming effects. It helps reduce anxiety and promotes better sleep. Drinking chamomile tea before bed can help with insomnia and nightmares.
4. Respiratory Infections: Chamomilla can be used to treat respiratory tract infections and inflammations. It helps soothe sore throats and reduce nasal inflammation.
5. Oral Health: Chamomilla is used to treat mouth and gum infections. It helps with conditions like canker sores and inflamed gums. Mouthwashes containing chamomile can provide relief.
6. Pain Relief: Chamomilla oil is used to relieve pain from conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and muscle pain. It can also help with headaches and toothaches.
7. Women’s Health: Chamomilla helps with menstrual problems by relieving cramps and mood swings. It is also used as a uterine tonic and can help with menopause symptoms.
8. Child Health: Chamomilla is used to treat common childhood conditions like fevers, colic, and croup. It’s also helpful for teething problems and can reduce pain and discomfort in babies.
9. Inflammatory Conditions: Chamomilla’s anti-inflammatory properties make it effective in treating conditions like arthritis, back pain, and other inflammatory diseases. It can reduce swelling and pain.

Chamomilla Homeopathic Uses

Chamomilla plants are used in various fields, such as medicine, cosmetics, and food. Its increasing popularity has led to widespread cultivation and use across the globe. Below are the detailed uses of chamomilla;

1. Chamomilla in Medicine: Chamomilla is widely used in traditional medicine, homeopathy, and Unani medicine. Each system has its specific ways of preparing and using chamomilla for various health benefits.

2. Chamomilla in Food: Chamomile flowers and their extracts are commonly used in food and beverages.

• Tea and Drinks: Chamomile tea is a popular herbal tea that is enjoyed worldwide. Fresh flowers are also used in salads and drinks like chamomile lemonade.
• Flavoring: Chamomile extracts and oils are added to foods, confectionery, and beverages to enhance flavor.
• Preservative: Chamomile oil can be used as a natural preservative in food products due to its antimicrobial properties.

3. Chamomilla in Cosmetics: Chamomile is a valuable ingredient in the cosmetic industry due to its soothing and healing properties.

• Skin Care: Chamomile extracts and oils are found in creams, lotions, and ointments to treat skin irritations and inflammations.
• Hair Care: Shampoos and conditioners often include chamomile for its ability to nourish and strengthen hair.
• Oral Care: Chamomile is used in mouthwashes and toothpaste for its antimicrobial benefits.
• Perfumes: Chamomile oil is blended with other essential oils to create perfumes.

4. Other Uses of Chamomilla: Chamomile has several other applications beyond medicine, food, and cosmetics.

• Insect Repellent: Chamomile extracts are used to repel mosquitoes and pests.
• Veterinary Medicine: Chamomile is used in the treatment of various animal health issues.
• Soil Reclamation: Chamomile helps in the reclamation of polluted soils by absorbing heavy metals.

Chamomilla Dosage

Chamomilla is used in various forms for its soothing and healing properties. Understanding the proper dosage is crucial to ensure its effectiveness and safety. Below are the recommended dosages for adults and children.

Chamomilla Dosage for Adults

• Tea: To make chamomile tea, pour 1 cup of boiling water over 2 to 3 heaping teaspoons (2 to 4 grams) of dried chamomile flowers. Let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes. For the best results, drink this tea 3 to 4 times daily between meals.
• Tincture: Use a tincture with a ratio of 1:5 and 45% alcohol. Add 30 to 60 drops of the tincture to hot water and drink it three times a day.
• Capsules: Chamomile capsules should be taken in doses of 300 to 400 milligrams three times a day.
• Gargle or Mouthwash: Prepare a chamomile tea as described above and let it cool. Use it as a gargle as often as needed. Alternatively, mix 10 to 15 drops of chamomile liquid extract in 100 millilitres of warm water and use this solution three times a day.
• Inhalation: For respiratory relief, add a few drops of chamomile essential oil to hot water and inhale the steam. You can also use chamomile tea for this purpose.
• Bath: Add 1/4 pound of dried chamomile flowers to your bath, or use 5 to 10 drops of chamomile essential oil in a full tub of water to soothe skin conditions like hemorrhoids, cuts, eczema, or insect bites.
• Poultice: Mix powdered chamomile with water to make a paste. Apply this to inflamed skin areas for relief.
• Cream: Use a cream containing 3 to 10% chamomile for treating psoriasis, eczema, or dry and flaky skin.
• Chamomile in Food: Chamomile can be used in soups, baked goods, jams, candies, salad dressings, ice cream, and cocktails. It adds a mild flavor and is generally recognized as safe by the FDA.

Chamomilla Dosage for Children

Chamomile tea is a gentle remedy for children. Prepare it by pouring 1 cup of boiling water over one heaping tablespoon of chamomile flowers. Cover and let it steep for at least 10 minutes, then strain and allow it to cool before serving.

• Tea: For children under five years, limit the intake to half a cup of chamomile tea per day. For colic relief, some doctors recommend giving 1 to 2 ounces of tea per day but always consult your doctor first.
• Tincture or Glycerinate: For older children, 1 to 3 millilitres of chamomile tincture or glycerinate taken three times daily is common. For infants, the dosage is typically 1 to 3 drops per pound of body weight, three times daily.
• For infants, you can give 1 to 3 drops per pound of body weight three times daily.

Always consult with a pediatrician before giving chamomile to infants or children. Store chamomile products in a cool, dark place, out of the reach of children.

Who Should Avoid Chamomilla?

People who should avoid Chamomilla are;

• People with asthma should avoid chamomile because it can worsen their condition.
• Pregnant women should steer clear of chamomile due to the risk of miscarriage.
• Women with a history of hormone-sensitive cancers, such as breast or uterine cancer, should consult their doctor before using chamomile, as it may act like estrogen in the body.
• Additionally, individuals allergic to asters, daisies, chrysanthemums, or ragweed might also be allergic to chamomile.

Side Effects And Risks Of Using Chamomilla

Chamomilla, or German chamomile, is a popular herb known for its soothing properties. However, not everyone should use it and can have the following side effects and risks:

• Stomach Issues: Drinking large amounts of concentrated chamomile tea can cause vomiting. It is important to consume chamomile in moderation.
• Drowsiness: Chamomile can cause drowsiness. Therefore, do not take chamomile and drive or operate heavy machinery.
• Risk of Bleeding: Chamomile can increase the risk of bleeding, especially when combined with blood-thinning medications like warfarin, clopidogrel, and aspirin. Stop using chamomile at least two weeks before any surgery or dental procedure.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Chamomile can interact with various medications, so always talk to your healthcare provider before using it. For example;
• Sedatives: Chamomile can enhance the effects of sedative medications and herbs, leading to excessive drowsiness.
• Blood Pressure Medications: Chamomile might lower blood pressure. However, when taken with blood pressure drugs, it could cause it to drop too low.
• Diabetes Medications: Chamomile may lower blood sugar levels. When combined with diabetes medications, it could result in hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
• Hormonal Therapies: Chamomile’s estrogen-like effects may interfere with drugs like Tamoxifen used in hormonal therapies.
• Other Drugs: Chamomile is broken down by the liver, which means it could interact with other drugs processed in the same way, such as fexofenadine, statins, birth control pills, and some antifungal medications.

Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting chamomile, especially if you have existing health conditions or are on medication. This ensures that chamomile is safe and suitable for your specific health needs.

References:

• https://www.webmd.com/diet/supplement-guide-chamomile
• https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/chamomile
• https://bjainpharma.com/product-category/mother-tincture/
• https://www.drugs.com/npp/chamomile.html
• https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=7d3c3461-a8b6-4a43-96ef-ade4bf4be967&type=display
• https://www.redalyc.org/pdf/4960/496053933002.pdf
• http://abc.herbalgram.org/site/DocServer/CRCPRESSChamomile-Section_1.5978-1-4665-7759-6.pdf;jsessionid=00000000.app20116a?docID=6362&NONCE_TOKEN=D18C0EA5F5A320A2364DE5186D314D0F
• https://boironusa.com/keep-your-baby-calm-with-chamomile/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8802657/
• https://epozytywnaopinia.pl/en/pregnant-chamomile-whether-it-is-safe

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