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Chamomile Herb - Uses And Side Effects

What is chamomile?

Chamomile comes in several varieties. The German or Hungarian version, called Matricaria recutila (M. chamomllla), is known as "true" chamomile. Roman or English chamomile comes from Chamaemelum nobile (Anthemis nobile).

Common doses of chamomile

Chamomile comes as capsules (354 and 360 milligrams), a liquid, and a tea. It's also found in many cosmetic products. Most experts recommend the following dose:

• As a tea, add 1 tablespoon of the flower head to hot water for 10 to 15 minutes, and take up to four times a day.

Why people use chamomile herb

• Eczema
• Eye irritation
• Hemorrhoids
• Insomnia
• Menstrual disorders
• Migraine
• Skin blisters
• Stomach disorders
• Throat discomfort
• To clean the skin

Side effects of chamomile

Call your health care practitioner if you experience any of these possible side effects of chamomile:

• allergic conjunctivitis (eye inflammation)
• skin irritation
• severe allergic reaction (chest tightness, wheezing, hives, itching, and rash)
• vomiting.

Interactions

Combining herbs with certain drugs may alter their action or produce unwanted side effects. Tell your health care practitioner about any prescription or nonprescription drugs you're taking, especially:

• blood thinners such as Coumadin (don't use chamomile when taking these drugs).
• any other drugs, because chamomile may make them less effective.

Important points to remember

• Don't use chamomile if you're pregnant or breast-feeding because the herb may trigger miscarriage. Also, be aware that some chamomile components have caused dam age to animal embryos and fetuses.
• Use chamomile cautiously if you're allergic to components of the herb's volatile oil or if you have a history of skin irritation.
• Avoid chamomile if you have a history of asthma or allergic dermatitis.
• Be aware that long-term consumption of chamomile tea may have a cumulative therapeutic effect

What the research shows

Researchers found that oral chamomile induced a deep sleep in patients undergoing cardiac catheterization. Scientists don't have enough information to verify claims that chamomile eases muscle spasms and inflammation and is effective in treating digestive disorders.

Other names for chamomile : -

Other names for chamomile include common chamomile, English chamomile, German chamomile, Hungarian chamomile, Roman chamomile, sweet false chamomile, true chamomile, and wild chamomile.

Products containing chamomile are sold under such names as Chamomile Flowers, Chamomile Tea, Chamomile Organic, Chamomilla, and Classic Chamomile.

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