Thursday, March 17, 2011

CHAMOMILE
(Camomile)-- (Matricaria chamomilla)
     
 German chamomile
Wild Chamomile
Yellow chamomile
Part used: Flowers
Properties: emmenagogue, nervine, sedative, carminative, diaphoretic, tonic.
What it affects: nerves, stomach, kidneys, spleen and liver.

Preparation and amount:
Infusion: steep 10-30 min. (do not boil flowers). take 6 oz. 2-3 times daily.
Tincture: take 30-60 drops 3 times daily.
Fluid extract: take 1/2-1 tsp 3 times daily
Powder: Take 5-10 #0 capsules(30-60 grains) 3 times daily.

Purposes: 
Internally, chamomile is good for insomnia and nervousness.It increases appetite and helps those with weak stomachs. It reduces inflammation, and aids digestion and sleep. Six ounces of the infusion or 1-2 tsp of the tincture at a time is good for menstrual cramps, kidney, spleen, or bladder problems. It acts as a diuretic and nerve tonic, and is a useful remedy for stress, anxiety, and indigestion.

Chamomile can be safe used for children with colds, indigestion, and nervous disorders. It helps relieve cramping associated with the menstrual cycle and will bring o the period. It can also be used as a relaxing antispasmodic, anodyne bath additive. It is good for dizziness, gas hysteria, jaundice, kidney problems, measles, and swellings. It is good for lumbago, rheumatic problems, and rashes

Externally, chamomile can be used as a mouthwash for minor mouth and gum infections.The tea is a good wash for sore eyes and open sores Use it as a wash or compress for skin problems and inflammations, including inflammations of the mucous tissues. Keeping a mouthful in the mouth for a time will temporarily relieve toothache.Use it for sitz(sitting) bath, to help hemorrhoids, or as a foot-or hand-bath for sweaty feet or hands. For hemorrhoids and wounds. the flowers are also made into a salve. To help asthma in children or to relieve the symptoms of a cold try a vapor bath of the tea. A fomentation can be used for cramps, gas and swellings.

Note:
This is German chamomile(Matricaria chamomimilla). Do not confuse it with Roman chamomile(Anthemis nobilis), which is also a good but lesser-used herb; it is quite different in its properties and applications, yet sometimes it is also called chamomile.


Warning: 
Chamomile should not be used daily for a lengthy period, for this could lead to constipation, or ragweed allergy. Those allergic to ragweeds should use it with caution (same family). it should not be used with sedatives or alcohol.






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