Chamomile
botanical name: Anathemis nobilis (L)
It is one of the most widely used medicinal plants around the world and is best known as a sleep aid.
Key Features:
- calms the body and mind
- sleeping agent
- relieves digestive issues
What does it do?
Nervous system: the antispasmodic parts of the herb depresses the peripheral nervous system and muscles, which indirectly helps to relax the body and reduce anxiety as a result while not disrupting normal function/performance. This contributes to a restful sleep and may also help with menstrual pains.
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Digestive system: it helps to provide relief of GI (gastrointestinal) discomfort such as spasms, bloating, impaired digestion etc particularly stress-induced digestive upset.
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Anti-inflammation: it can help to reduce inflammation internally by reducing muscle tension indicated in asthma, bronchitis, flu, sinusitis and hay fever - it helps to clear excess mucus and phelgm from the lungs. Externally, chamomile can reduce inflammation by calming and soothing the skin.
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Lowers blood sugar: there is evidence to show that chamomile tea can help to control blood glucose levels, and may be useful in reducing diabetes risk factors.
Active Constituents
Chamazulene (from steam distillation of matricin)
Volatile oils
Flavanoids
Parts Used
Flowers
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Herbal Actions
Bitter
Carminative
Nervine / Antispasmodic
Anti-inflammatory
Applications
Teas,
Tinctures,
Salves,
Oils
Precautions
Rare but possible allergic reaction in people allergic to the daisy family
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