Juicing For Health - Chamomile
Name
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) also known as German Chamomile, Camomile, Wild Chamomile, Hungarian chamomile, Pineapple Weed and Scented Mayweed.
Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) also known as Chamomile, Garden Camomile, Ground Apple, Low Chamomile and English chamomile is another species and is more common in Great Britain whilst German Chamomile is worldwide. Both have similar benefits/properties.
Parts Used
Flowers, Plant.
Information
Chamomile, also spelled camomile, is an annual plant of the composite family Asteraceae which usually grows near populated areas all over Europe and temperate Asia. Chamomile is a popular herbal tea which has been used for centuries due to its many therapeutic properties as seen below.
Traditionally Chamomile was used for the treatment of mild digestive problems such as indigestion, bloating, dyspepsia and flatulence, stress and anxiety, insomnia,reducing inflammation and pain, fevers, nausea, nerve tonic and menstrual cramps.
Research reported a number of beneficial effects for chamomile in in vitro and animal tests, but added that more human clinical trials are needed before firm conclusions can be drawn. Research with animals suggests antispasmodic, anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory and some antimutagenic and cholesterol-lowering effects for chamomile. Chamomile has also sped healing time of wounds in animals.
Benefits
- Anti-Microbial
- Anti-Inflammatory
- Digestion
- Sedative
In vitro chamomile has demonstrated moderate antimicrobial and antioxidant properties and significant antiplatelet activity, as well as preliminary results against cancer. Essential oil of chamomile was shown to be a promising antiviral agent against herpes simplex virus type 2
Studies have proven the anti-inflammatory activity of chamomile, which is said to be effective in helping inflammatory stomach disorders, if used as a mouthwash against oral mucositis and other inflammatory conditions.
Chamomile is said to stimulate appetite and aid digestion, whilst helping relieve symptoms such as indigestion, bloating, cramps, gas and inflammatory stomach disorders. Chamomile has mild bitter and laxative properties, it is best to drink a cup of tea immediatley after eating.
Chamomile is well known for its mild sedative properties and use as a nervine tonic. Studies have proved these effects aswell as its anti-anxiety effect. Also commonly recommended for sleep disturbances.
Side Effects/Precautions
If you suffer from allergies to plants of the Compositae family (a large group including such flowers as daisies, ragweed, asters and chrysanthemums) it would be best to not use chamomile incase of allergic reaction. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice any side effects, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Taking regular breaks can minimize chances of allergies to ragweed building. Should not be mixed with sedatives or alcohol.
Buying Information
Good product sources can be purchased from the links below.
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