Chamomile is an herb that has been around for thousands of years, and the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans used it extensively as a cure-all. The small, daisy-like flower heads are dried and used in tea, and made into supplements, creams or oils. In lab and animal studies, chamomile demonstrates its worth with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties.
Is It German Or Roman Chamomile?
There are two types of chamomile; German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and Roman (also called English) chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile). They are different species but in the same family. Even though their chemicals are not all the same, the two herbs have similar medicinal properties. For this reason, they are often interchanged. However, it is the German variety that is the most used and most studied.
For purists looking to tell the two herbs apart, Roman chamomile is a perennial that grows up to one foot tall. The flowers and foliage have an apple scent. In fact, the chamomile name derived from the Greek word for "ground apple." Slice open a flower head and it is solid. The herb is most popular in England, home of Roman settlements 2000 years ago.
German chamomile is an annual that can grow up to 2.5 inches tall. Only the flowers have an apple scent. Slice open a flower head and it is hollow. This herb is most popular in mainland Europe and the USA.
Chamomile is Still a Cure-All
As in the past, people presently use chamomile as a panacea for many conditions. It is not so far-fetched when one considers that chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties, and scientists are discovering that inflamed tissues contribute to a lot of ill health, both inside and outside the body. Many people rely on others’ experiences and take it orally, topically or as a steam inhalant.
A main phytochemical in chamomile, apigenin, is believed to calm nervousness, which in turn soothes digestion problems like intestinal cramping, upset stomach, irritable bowel syndrome and gas. Also, because it lessens anxiety, chamomile acts like a sedative to aid in insomnia relief. Another phytochemical, glycine, relaxes the uterus and helps fight menstrual cramping.
Many people use chamomile for minor skin problems like rashes, sunburns and eczema. The herb also clears a stuffy nose and is used for other respiratory problems like cough, bronchitis and sore throat. It is approved for those conditions by the prestigious German Commission E. In the USA, German chamomile is on the Generally Recognized as Safe list, but so far only as a seasoning.
Unusual Facts About Chamomile
German chamomile essential oil, also called volatile oil, is prepared from a steam distillation process that concentrates the herb’s powerful phytochemicals. A beautiful blue color, due to the chemical azulene, forms only after the steam distillation process. The pure oil is expensive; one oz (1/8 cup) is about $100. Just a few drops are mixed with a base oil, such as almond oil, for massage therapy, a part of aromatherapy.
Folklore has it that Roman chamomile grown in a garden can help ailing plants back into good health, and for this reason the herb is often called the "plants’ doctor." Furthermore, in Medieval England, whole lawns were planted with chamomile, and curiously, the lawns seemed to thrive when walked on.
Scientific Human Trials Needed
Traditionally, the uses of chamomile are many, passed on by those who gained knowledge from experience. Individuals use chamomile to reduce anxiety that enables them to sleep better and calm the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, chamomile has a reputation for aiding respiratory problems and skin conditions. Many results have been confirmed in the lab and with animal studies, but human clinical trials are needed.
This is an educational article only. Do not use chamomile if allergic to ragweed and daisy-like flowers. Do not take if pregnant. It might weaken the effect of birth control pills. Do not take with sedatives. In general, seek the guidance of your heath care professional before taking chamomile with any prescription medicine.
Reference
Foster, Steven and Tyler, Varro E., PhD. Tyler’s Honest Herbal (4th edition). New York: The Haworth Herbal Press, 1999.
“Making Therapeutic Herbal Teas.” Suite 101, accessed October 10, 2009.
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