Overview

Chamomile has long been a popular herb in both medicinal and beauty products. There are two major forms of Chamomile, Matricaria recutita, which is known as German Chamomile and Chamaemelum nobile, which is commonly referred to as Roman or English Chamomile. German Chamomile tends to be the more popular of these herbs; however, the makeup of the two is quite similar, and their medicinal properties are effective for many of the same disorders.

Both herbs are known for their effectiveness in treating disorders such as stomach issues, skin problems, slight infections, and Muscle spasms or cramps. More research has been done on German Chamomile to validate these claims and less is known about Roman Chamomile; however, Roman Chamomile is found in many different products from ointments and teas to shampoos and hair dyes.

Historically, the Greek, Roman, and Egyptian civilizations all placed Chamomile in high regard within their daily lives. The name Chamomile is derived from the Greek words Kamai, meaning on the ground, and melon, meaning apple. Romans used the plant as ground cover, as medicine, and for bathing. The Egyptians compared the daisy-like flowers of the plant to the sun and dedicated it to Ra, the sun god.

Plant Description

The Roman Chamomile plant is thought to have originated in Northern Ireland and northwestern Europe. The low growth level of this plant allows it to be used commonly as a ground cover. The leaves are grayish green in color and grow directly from the stems. The flowers of this plant are reminiscent of the daisy, with white petals surrounding bright yellow centers. The easiest way to distinguish this herb is by its strong sour apple scent. Roman Chamomile is a perennial and will return year after year if the flowers are allowed to go to seed.

What’s It Made Of

When Roman Chamomile is used in teas, oils, or extracts, the active ingredients generally come from the flowers of the herb. For teas and pill forms of this herb, the flower head is usually dried and pulverized or crushed, then added to the product. For creams, soaps, and some medicines, the head of the flower can be steamed and crushed to isolate the essential oils of the herb, and this concentrate will be added to the finished product. The oil forms of Roman Chamomile contain chemicals, such as azulenes and alpha-bisabolol, which are known to have anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial applications.

Available Forms

Roman Chamomile is available in many different forms. There are teas and drinks with this herb, as well as shampoos, soaps, and creams. Pills and extracts are also readily available that include the herb. You can find the dried flowers available or purchase Roman Chamomile as an essential oil.

How To Take It

There have been no studies on the uses of Chamomile in infants and children and no effective and safe dosage level has been confirmed. Avoid giving products containing Chamomile to a young child, as it is not known whether it is safe.

Adults can take Chamomile in a wide variety of ways. There are creams, teas, oils, and extracts. The proper dosage depends on the form in which the herb is applied or ingested. Many times the label of the product will instruct you on safe and proper uses of the particular product; however, if there are no instructions, here are a few rules of thumb regarding Roman Chamomile. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the products before self-dosage.

For teas, you can use 1 heaping tablespoon or the dried flower to one cup of boiling water, and allow it to steep to the desired strength, generally 10 to 15 minutes.

To take an oral Chamomile extract, dose yourself with at least twenty, but no more than one hundred and twenty drops, up to three times a day.

For bathing purposes, two teabags or a few drops of essential oils of Roman Chamomile can help to soothe skin conditions and Hemorrhoids, when used in an average sized full tub of water.

For creams, apply the ointment to the affected area as necessary to provide relief. Creams should contain no more than a ten percent concentration.

Precautions

As with any medicine or herbal supplement you may ingest, seeing a specialist before taking any product containing Roman Chamomile is advisable. Many different herbs and drugs can cause adverse reactions with each other when used in conjunction with certain other products. Be certain that you discuss any other medicines or herbs you take regularly or occasionally with an educated professional to prevent illness from herb and drug interactions.

Chamomile is approved by the FDA for human consumption; however, there are warnings about a certain ingredient of this herb. Roman Chamomile has levels of anthemic Acid that can cause Nausea and Vomiting in high-level doses. Take care to not ingest highly concentrated teas and drinks that include Chamomile.

Roman Chamomile is part of the same family as ragweed, Echinacea, and Feverfew. If you have had previous allergic reactions to these flowers, you should not take or use products containing Chamomile. Allergic reactions can vary in severity and symptoms. Be aware of stomach cramps, itching, hives, swelling of the face, and difficulty breathing and seek medical attention if these symptoms become severe. Severe allergic reactions with breathing issues can be very dangerous and sometimes even fatal if not properly treated, so please be aware of any changes in your body and promptly seek medical attention.

Possible Interactions

While Chamomile is a generally safe herb when taken alongside other medications, consult a medial professional if you are being treated with sedatives or blood thinning medications.

Sedatives and Chamomile both have intense calming affects and should not be used together due to the similarity or the properties of these chemicals. Alcohol is included in these warnings.

Blood thinning medications have also been rumored to be enhanced to a dangerous level by using products such as Chamomile. There is no scientific proof or research on this side effect; however, consulting a physician first in this case would be wise.