Herbal Spotlight: Matricaria Recutita

Common names: Chamomile, German Chamomile

History: Chamomile was a well-known herb in ancient Egypt and Greece and was used later around the turn of the century for its relaxing properties.

Actions:

• Calming

• Anti-inflammatory

• Sleep aid

• Carminitive (stomach soother)

• Muscle relaxer

• Reduces fever

• Anti-fungal and anti-bacterial

• Anti-allergenic

• Skin healing

Preparations: Most often used as a tea or tincture. Topical preparations as oils, creams, or compresses are also useful.

Uses:

• Consume chamomile tea before bed for it’s relaxing effects to loosen your muscles and help you sleep

• Use chamomile tea or tincture when your stomach is feeling unsettled, or you are experiencing bowel irregularities

• Apply topically to reduce skin irritation or ulcers

• Apply cool tea bags to your eyes to reduce puffiness, redness, irritation or swelling

Caution: If you suffer from allergies to plants of Asteraceae/Compositae family (includes ragweed) you may experience allergic symptoms from Chamomile. Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding.