Chamomile or Roman chamomile, somewhat bitterer than common chamomile, is used to facilitate digestion and whet the appetite, as well as for irritated or infected eyes, for mild nervousness and to lighten hair, among other medicinal uses.
Differences and similarities with common chamomile
It is said that chamomile was previously perceived by the smell rather than by sight. Its penetrating aroma may be somewhat reminiscent of the apple: hence its name and also that of ordinary chamomile, with which it is closely related. It is also often called chamomile, by its Latin names.
In our country, ordinary chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is easier to find than Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum Nobile), which is therefore somewhat more expensive. It grows on the European Atlantic coast, including the west of the Iberian Peninsula.
Roman chamomile closely resembles common chamomile in appearance and properties, but the white ligules of its flowers, retracted downward, are wider and less pointed.
It has a more bitter taste, which is why common chamomile is sometimes also called sweet chamomile. To soften it, infused Roman chamomile is usually combined with lemon, honey, cinnamon or ginger.
For medicinal purposes the flower buds are harvested and to a lesser extent the leaves and it is used above all in digestive disorders.
Medicinal properties of chamomile
Medicinal properties of chamomile
In the composition of chamomile we find an essential oil with chamazulene and angelic and antémic acids, as well as coumarins, flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones and alcohols.
Thanks to this composition, chamomile has the following uses:
- Stimulates the production of gastric juices, with a remarkable eupeptic, aperitif, carminative, cholagogue and antiseptic effect.
- It awakens the appetite in listless or convalescent people.
- It favors digestion and prevents gas.
- Combined with plants that enhance its cholagogue effect (such as bold, fumaria, centaury, barberry, mint or ginger), it relieves disorders of hepatobiliary origin, such as migraines and the propensity to suffer gallstones.
- Traditionally it has also been used to eliminate intestinal parasites.
- In topical use, Roman chamomile is used, like the other, as an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory in eye infections and inflammations, as well as in superficial wounds, sores and minor sunburns.
- Infused or macerated in olive oil, it enhances the blonde pigmentation of the hair, lightening it.
- Its essential oil, slightly sedative, is useful in states of nervousness that affect digestion.
- The essential oil (pure or diluted in water) is also used in joint pain, neuralgia, low back pain and sciatica.
Infusion with chamomile to improve digestion
This Roman chamomile tea combined with related plants helps to digest better and prevents discomfort.
For this, Roman chamomile is mixed with lemon verbena, bold and minor centaury, in equal parts, and one tablespoon of this mixture is prepared per glass of water.
How to prepare it: When the water starts to boil, add it and keep it infused, covered, for 5 to 6 minutes.
It takes a cup, especially after copious and heavy or high-fat meals.
How is it used?
Chamomile can be taken in the form of a dried plant, powder, tincture and liquid extract. You can also use the essential oil and it is common to find it in shampoos.
Precautions and contraindications
Oral essential oil should be avoided in pregnancy and lactation, in gastritis and gastro duodenal ulcer.
Nor is it recommended externally for children under six years of age and for respiratory allergies.
May irritate sensitive skin with dermatitis.
On the other hand, the plant can enhance the effect of some drugs, such as barbiturates, antihistamines and benzodiazepines.
At high doses it can induce vomiting.
