Matricaria chamomilla, Matricaria recutita, Chamaemelum nobile

Description: This herb is described as "Alles zutraut", which literally means that it is capable of curing almost anything. Chamomile is available in tea which contains an apple aroma. It is also found in shampoos, ointments and lotions.

Parts Used: flowers

Common Use: Chamomile works as a digestive aid. The light blue oil has a relaxing action of the smooth muscle lining of the digestive tract. This herb also helps soothe menstrual cramps by relaxing the smooth muscles of the uterus as well. Add a handful of the flowers to a hot bath and be tranquilized. Chamomile does this by depressing the central nervous system. Infection can be prevented in cuts, scrapes, and burns through this herb since it stimulates the immune system's white blood cells. Just brew it, then cool, and apply in compresses

Origin: Southern Europe

Active Substances: Apigenine & luteoline (Flavonoids), Bisabolols, en-indicycloether, matricine, chamazulene, essential oils

Standard: 1.2% Apigenin, 0.5% essential oil

Pharmacology:

Active Properties:

Directions For Use:2-3 teaspoons per 1 cup boiling water-drink 3 cups a day. For relaxation in a hot bath, place a handful of chamomile flowers in a cloth and tie it up, then run the bathwater over it. Before taking any herbal product, you are advised to consult with a trained health care professional.

Processing:

Bio-Enhancing:Aloe Vera works as an external bio-enhancing agent. Internal bio-enhancing agents are as follows: Passion Flower, Goldenseal, Yellow Dock, Kelp, Valerian Root, Peppermint, Vitamin B complex, Vitamin C, and Vitamin A.

Toxicity, Cautions, Contra-Indications:May cause an allergic reaction to those who suffer hypersensitivity to ragweed. Large dosages cause nausea and vomiting. Before taking any herbal product, you are advised to consult with a trained health care professional.

Scientific References:Balch, J. and Balch, P., (1997) Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Garden City Park, New York: Avery Publishing Group. Castleman, M., (1991) The Healing Herbs. Emmaus, Pennsylvania: Rodale Press. Chopra, D., (1993) Alternative Medicine. Fife, Washington: Future Medicine Publishing, Inc. Flynn, R. and Roest, M., (1995) Your Guide to Standardized Herbal Products. Prescott, Arizona: One World Press. Murray, M., (1996) Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. Unites States of America: Prima Publishing. Murray, M. and Pizzorno, J., (1998) Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. United States of America: Prima Publishing. Null, G., (1998) The Complete Encyclopedia of Natural Healing. New York, New York: Kensington Publishing Corp. Werbach, M., (1993) Nutritional Influences of Illness. Tarzana, California: Third Line Press.

Historical Uses:Chamomile is called the herb of the sun because the daisylike flowers reminded the Egyptians of the sun. They used this herb to treat the fevers caused from malaria. Chamomile was also used for headaches, kidney and liver troubles, digesive problems, menstrual complications and as anti-infectives.

Analysis:HPLC Contents of total apigenin 1.50%, Characteristics Yellow-brown hygroscopic amorphous powder, Solubility in water (c=2) clear\opalescent, Solubility in alcohol (50% v/v)(c=2) clear/opalescent, TLC ID complies, pH (c=1, water) 4.9, Sulfated Ash 6.3%, Water 1.8%, Heavy Metals complies, Total residual organic solvents 0.07%, Ethanol 0.07%, Total amount other solvents <0.005%, Total Aerobic <1000 cfu/g, fungi <100 cfu/g, Staph. Aureus, salmonella absent, E. Coli absent