CHAMOMILE
Plant family: Asteraceae aka Compositae (Daisy family)
Part used: flower
Taste: bitter, spicy
Historical commentary: The herb was well-known to the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians and is a commonly used beverage tea as well as medicinal herb.
EFFECTS
Antispasmodic: alleviates gastro-intestinal cramping; used for colic in infants.
Anti-inflammatory: alleviates inflammatory disorders of the gastro-intestinal tract, respiratory system, and (applied topically) the skin and mucous membranes.
Modern findings: The herb has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions; it has antioxidant activity, promoting the production of glutathione; the oil of the seed is estrogenic.
Dosage: 3 grams; lesser amounts in formulas containing other antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory ingredients.
Active constituents: Chamomile contains a wide range of active ingredients, mainly flavonoids (up to 8%), essential oils (up to 2%), mucilage (a slippery material comprised of polysaccharides and other ingredients; up to 10%), and coumarins (up to 0.1%). Flavonoids and essential oils often produce antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects for the gastrointestinal system and are likely to be the main active constituents.
Cautions: None noted.
Künzle Formula: Tea for Mood.