Chamomile
Ok, so we all know I LOVE chamomile. Here’s a bit more about why…
For starters, I appreciate anything that is considered a “weed” and has super powers! It is a gentle, yet powerful, little flower. Chamomile can increase levels of serotonin without dependency or side effects. I tend to use it most often in the clinic as a mild sedative to calm nerves and reduce anxiety, to help with insomnia and other sleep problems, and to support healthy digestion.
But did you know? …..
Chamomile has been valued as a digestive relaxant helpful in reducing smooth muscle spasms associated with various gastrointestinal inflammatory disorders like
indigestion
flatulence
diarrhea
lack of appetite
motion sickness
nausea and vomiting
stomach cramps
It has been used in women's health as an emmenagogue and a uterine tonic, for irregular or difficult menses with clotting, and for PMS, vaginitis and mastitis.
It has also been used to treat colic, croup, and fevers in children.
It boosts the immune system and helps fight infections associated with colds
Studies suggest that chamomile ameliorates hyperglycemia and diabetic complications by suppressing blood sugar levels, increasing liver glycogen storage and inhibition of sorbitol in the human erythrocytes.
Chamomile is widely used to treat inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes, and for various bacterial infections of the skin, oral cavity and gums, and respiratory tract
ulcers
wounds
eczema
gout
skin irritations
bruises
burns
canker sores
neuralgia
sciatica
rheumatic pain & arthritis
hemorrhoids
diaper rash
cracked nipples
chicken pox
ear and eye & nasal infections
blocked tear ducts
conjunctivitis
poison ivy
bed sores
Huang Chu Ju (Chamomile) in TCM: Meridians: Lungs, Heart, Stomach, Liver Key Actions: Moves Qi, Releases Qi Stagnation, Tonifies the Liver, Stops Inflammation, Soothes Pain, Strengthens the Stomach, Releases to the Exterior, Clears Heat, Stops Cough, Moves Blood, Calms Shen