Chamomile (mansanilya in tagalog)

(Camomile) – (Matricaria chamomilla) 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 stomach. It reduce inflammation, and aids digestion and sleep. Six ounces of the infusion or 1-2 teaspoons 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 useful remedy for stress, anxiety and indigestion.

• Chamomile can be safely used for children with colds, indigestion and nervous disorders. It helps relieve cramping associated with the menstrual cycle and will bring on 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 also 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 inflammation, including inflammation of the mucous tissues. Keeping a mouthful in the mouth for a time will temporarily relieve toothache. Use it for a 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 chamomilla). 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 ragweed should use it with caution (same family). It should not be used with sedatives or alcohol.