Chamomile (unspecified)
Other names
certified organic chamomile extractives
chamomil 4:1
chamomile
chamomile 1% extract
chamomile 4:1
chamomile blossoms extract
chamomile essential oil
chamomile extract
chamomile extractives
chamomile flower
chamomile [flower] 4:1 extract
chamomile flower 4:1 extract
chamomile flower aqueous extract
chamomile (flower) concentrate
chamomile (flower) extract
chamomile flower extract
chamomile flower extract 4:1
chamomile flower extract concentrate
chamomile flower extract, powder
chamomile flower fluid extract
chamomile (flower) hydroethanolic and supercritical extracts
chamomile flower oil
chamomile flower powder
chamomile flowers
chamomile flowers extract
chamomile, fresh
chamomile herb
chamomile herb 10:1 extract
chamomile leaf and herb powder
chamomile leaf extract
chamomile leaf powder
chamomile powder
chamomile powdered extract
chamomile root extract
chamomile root powder
chamomile tea
chamomile whole plant extract
chamomille herb
essence of organic chamomile (leaf) oil
fresh chamomile extract
organic chamomile
organic chamomile extract
organic chamomile (flower) extract
organic chamomile flower extract
organic chamomile flowers extract
organic fermented chamomile
raw, co2-extracted chamomile
Synopsis
History
Chamomile has a venerable history as a medicinal herb, revered for centuries across numerous cultures. Ancient Egyptians dedicated chamomile to the sun god Ra, using its flowers for fever and as a general tonic. The Greeks and Romans valued chamomile for its gentle, soothing properties, applying it to digestive complaints, skin conditions, and as a calming tea. In medieval Europe, chamomile was a staple of monastic gardens and home apothecaries, often brewed to ease insomnia, anxiety, and gastrointestinal upset. Its mild, apple-like fragrance led to its use in strewing herbs for purification and relaxation.
Traditional remedies highlight chamomile’s versatility. Infusions and teas have long been recommended for nervous tension, mild pain, and inflammatory conditions, while topical preparations—such as poultices and compresses—were applied to minor wounds, rashes, and eye irritations. Chamomile baths were common for soothing irritated skin and promoting restful sleep.
Chamomile’s value is further enhanced when combined with other herbs. In herbal blends, it frequently partners with ingredients like lemon balm, valerian, or lavender, amplifying its calming effects for stress and sleep support. In digestive formulas, chamomile pairs well with peppermint or fennel to promote gentle relief from bloating and discomfort. Its pleasant flavor and broad tolerability make it a favored base for many herbal teas, ensuring compliance and enjoyment.
Overall, chamomile’s enduring popularity is a testament to its gentle efficacy and wide-ranging benefits. Its contributions to traditional and modern herbal practice are both positive and profound, making it a cherished ingredient in many wellness traditions.
Traditional and scientific validation
Chamomile, a term commonly referring to the dried flowers of Matricaria chamomilla (German chamomile) or Chamaemelum nobile (Roman chamomile), has a rich history of use in traditional medicine across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Historically, chamomile has been prized for its calming effects, digestive support, and topical healing properties. Ancient Egyptians revered chamomile for its healing virtues, and it was a staple in Greek and Roman herbal remedies.
Modern scientific inquiry has begun to validate some of chamomile’s traditional uses. Chamomile contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids (such as apigenin), terpenoids, and essential oils, which are thought to contribute to its therapeutic effects. Clinical studies suggest chamomile extracts may help with mild sleep disturbances and anxiety. For instance, a randomized controlled trial published in Phytomedicine (2016) found that chamomile extract modestly reduced symptoms in people with generalized anxiety disorder. Additionally, some research indicates potential anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic actions, supporting its traditional use for digestive discomfort.
Chamomile has also been investigated for skin health, with some topical formulations demonstrating soothing effects in conditions like eczema. While many studies are promising, they are often limited by small sample sizes and variability in chamomile preparations. As such, more large-scale, standardized clinical trials are needed to fully substantiate its health benefits. Nonetheless, chamomile remains a widely used and generally well-tolerated herb, valued for its gentle, multipurpose contributions to wellness.
Uses: Health Conditions
Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Acid Indigestion (Traditional)
Anxiety (Traditional)
Anxiety Disorders (Traditional)
Appetite (deficient) (Traditional)
Backache (Traditional)
Bedwetting (Traditional)
Bladder Infection (Traditional)
Bleeding (external) (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Traditional)
Canker Sores (Traditional)
Colds (general) (Traditional)
Colds (with fever) (Traditional)
Colic (children) (Traditional)
Conjunctivitis (Traditional)
Constipation (adults) (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Depression (Traditional)
Dermatitis (Scientific)
Diarrhea (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Dyspepsia (Traditional)
Ear Infection or Earache (Traditional)
Eczema (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Gas and Bloating (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Gingivitis (Traditional)
Headache (general) (Traditional)
Headache (tension) (Traditional)
Indigestion (Traditional)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Insomnia (Traditional)
Irritability (Traditional)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Traditional)
Itching (Traditional)
Jaundice (adults) (Traditional)
Laryngitis (Traditional)
Menopause (Traditional)
Migraine (Traditional)
Nausea and Vomiting (Traditional)
Neurosis (Traditional)
Body Systems
Brain (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Immune System (Traditional)
Nerves (Scientific)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)
GABA (Traditional)
Taste (Traditional)