Chamomile Has Legitimate Medicinal Uses
Most people might think of herbalism and other forms of alternative medicine as new-age hippy mumbo jumbo that has no basis in scientific or medical fact. However, there are some rare cases where alternative medicinal treatments are actually backed by science. Chamomile is one such exception. But what exactly is it good for? And how should you take it? We'll answer these questions - and more - about this lovely little plant.
The Many Uses of Chamomile
If you have any of the following afflictions, you may be able to find relief from a generous dose of chamomile:
- Ulcers
- Anxiety
- Hay Fever
- Inflammation
- Hemorrhoids
- Muscle spasms
- Menstrual cramps
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Eczema
- Chicken pox
- Psoriasis
- Insomnia
Chamomile comes from a flowering plant that blooms all over Europe, especially in Germany and other parts of the mediterranean. It is recognizable by its daisy-like delicate white petals with a bright yellow center in the middle of the flower. The two most popular species, with regard to medicinal use, are Roman chamomile and German chamomile.
For many of the conditions above, the scientific evidence of chamomile's efficacy is a little light; however, that doesn't stop some people from swearing by it. For other conditions, however, there is plenty of evidence that chamomile works - especially when it comes to the serious issues of anxiety and insomnia.
Alleviating Symptoms of Anxiety & Sleeplessness With Chamomile
Just to be clear, the specific species of chamomile that has the most robust mountain of scientific evidence behind it is the german chamomile species (Matricaria chamomilla). In many medical circles, German doctors are just as likely to prescribe chamomile for anxiety and insomnia problems as they are a chemical pharmaceutical drug. That's because chamomile contains the following botanical compounds that are proven to enhance human health:
- Apigenin - a non-toxic botanical compound which stimulates the growth of new brain cells, reduces inflammation, and helps protect against many types of cancers
- Alpha-bisabolol - a sweet-scented oil that has skin healing and anti-inflammatory properties
- Coumarins - helps reduce edema (swelling due to the accumulation of fluid in interstitial tissues)
- Umbelliferone - a member of the coumarin family with strong antioxidant properties. In synthetic form, it is a popular addition to sunscreen due to its absorption of ultraviolet light
- Caffeic acid - a potent antioxidant also found in coffee and red wine. It has been shown in vitro to prevent the proliferation of certain cancer cells. It also has anti-inflammatory properties
- Flavonoids - specific plant compounds known to reduce inflammation and prevent oxidative stress. They can also help protect against certain cancers, reduce cardiovascular disease, and boost the antibacterial effectiveness of most antibiotics
- Quercetin - current scientific research is exploring this newly discovered flavonoid's ability to combat diabetes, obesity, circulatory dysfunction, and mood disorders
- Rutin - a botanical compound which some studies suggest can be useful for reducing inflammation, eliminating toxins (such as sorbitol), reducing the severity of heart attacks/strokes, alleviating hemorrhoid symptoms, and preventing oxidative stress. It also has the ability to reduce pain by interacting with opioid receptors
As you can see, there are many anti inflammatory and antioxidant compounds which contribute to the plant's medicinal benefits. Furthermore, many of these botanicals interact with the central nervous system, binding to GABA receptors and regulating monoamine imbalances. In layman's terms, it means they increase the amount of endorphins in your brain while reducing the body's ability to feel stressed out and anxious.
How to Take Chamomile for Medicinal Purposes
You may already be familiar with chamomile tea. This has been the most popular way to consume chamomile for centuries. There are many varieties of chamomile tea out there; some are just plain chamomile all by itself, while others mix chamomile with other stress-relieving botanicals for a more potent brew.
For many, though, it may be easier to take a capsule than to take the time to brew tea. But not all chamomile supplements are created equal. According to double-blind, placebo-controlled studies, a starting dose of 200 mg pharmaceutical-grade Matricaria chamomilla with a 1.2% apigenin concentration is an effective starting dose. The dose may have to be increased based on body weight and severity of anxiety/sleeplessness symptoms.
Lastly, there are natural herbal sleep remedies that contain chamomile (Avinol PM is one of our favorites). Some of them also contain amino acids, like 5-HTP to help promote relaxation further by regulating levels of specific neurotransmitters in the brain. And if you can find a sleep aid that combines chamomile and melatonin, the sleep hormone, that's even better! As a matter of fact, we've reviewed some products that do just that. Take a look at them here.