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Chamomile
Description: Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) has long been used in the treatment of intestinal complaints. German Chamomile, or Wild Chamomile, is the most commonly used variety for medicinal extracts. However, most teas are made from the Common Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis). Both have the same medicinal properties; however, German Chamomile has a stronger, more pungent flavor, making it less enjoyable as a tea.
Chamomile has long been used for its calming effects and as an aid to insomnia. Laboratory studies have confirmed that it is effective in the treatment of anxiety.1
A mouthwash made from Sage oil, Peppermint oil, Menthol, chamomile tincture, echinacea, Myrrh tincture, clove oil, and caraway seed has been shown effective in treating gingivitis.2
Toothpaste containing Sage oil, Peppermint oil, chamomile tincture, echinacea, and Myrrh tincture is also effect, especially when accompanied by the mouthwash mentioned above.3
Chamomile acts as an anti-inflammatory and can ease the pain of inflamed and irritated membranes in the digestive tract, promoting normal digestive processing.4
Chamomile is effective in soothing the digestive system, easing cramping and irritation.5 It appears especially effective in treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome characterized by alternating diarrhea and constipation.
Chamomile may also be effective in the treatment of ulcerative colitis.6

Useful in treatment of: gingivitis, indigestion and heartburn, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, insomnia, Peptic Ulcer, ulcerative colitis.

Recommended Dosage: Several cups of tea daily, or 3 to 4 grams extract three times daily, with meals.

Contraindications: People with ragweed and other plant allergies may have an allergic response to chamomile.

References:

1. Yamada K, Miura T, Mimaki Y, Sashida Y. Effect of inhalation of chamomile oil vapour on plasma ACTH level in ovariectomized rats under restriction stress. Biol Pharm Bull 1996;19:1244–46.
2Serfaty R, Itic J. Comparative trial with natural herbal mouthwash versus chlorhexidine in gingivitis. J Clin Dentistry 1988;1: A34.
3Yamnkell S, Emling RC. Two–month evaluation of Parodontax dentifrice. J Clin Dentistry 1988;1:A41.
4Mills SY. Out of the Earth: The Essential Book of Herbal Medicine. London: Viking Press, 1991, 448–51.
5Achterrath-Tuckerman U, Kunde R, et al. Pharmacological investigations with compounds of chamomile. V. Investigations on the spasmolytic effect of compounds of chamomile and Kamillosan® on isolated guinea pig ileum. Planta Med 1980; 39:38–50.
6Weiss RF. Herbal Medicine. Beaconsfield, UK: Beaconsfield Publishers Ltd, 1989:26.
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