When people hear about the word chamomile, they assume that it’s all the same. However, not many people know that there is such a thing as German chamomile. Or when they hear about it, they think that it’s just the same. In reality, though, chamomile and German chamomile are different. They have their health benefits, but they aren’t the same.
German Chamomile vs Chamomile
The chamomile we know is typically the English or Roman chamomile, known as Chamaemelum Nobile. Facts have shown that there are actually two types of plants referred to as chamomile. The other one is the German chamomile or Matricaria Recutita. They come from different species, but they are able to treat health issues.
German chamomile has been used as herbs as well as medicine for centuries, especially in the easter and southern Europe. It seems that this plant is rich in beneficial chemicals that can help to reduce swelling as well as helping with relaxation. The ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks had tapped into their plant’s beneficial trait, and it’s a good thing that people still make use of the plant until today.
German chamomile is currently used to treat anxiety, colic (in infants), indigestion, and common cold. The plant is also claimed to help with other health conditions although the scientific proof is still limited.
The Health Benefits
The plant can be turned into various forms, including capsules, liquid extract, topical ointment, tea, and dried flower. According to studies done to animals, the plant can speed up the wound healing process, reduce inflammation, reduce muscle spasm, and kill viruses, fungus, and bacteria.
Some of the believed health benefits of the plant are:
- It can treat insomnia and anxiety. Those who consume the capsule or tea claimed that they can sleep better. Not to mention that they can also deal with anxiety symptoms better. It’s believed that a little dose of this chamomile can help with anxiety, while a higher dose may help with sleep.
- It can help with digestive issues, such as diarrhea, colic, gas, cramps, and IBS. The plant can help to relax the muscle (and the contractions), which improve the overall health.
- It also helps with mouth sores and gingivitis. Some people who use the mouthwash claim that they have very little issue with mouth sores.
- It is also great for topical application, especially to treat eczema or skin irritation. It can somehow soothe the skin, improving the condition.
Taking German Chamomile
You can take this chamomile as tea, mouthwash, capsules, or apply it onto the skin. You can even use it for inhalation. The dried herb can be taken as tea or used to gargle (as a mouthwash). Some people take it as tincture, if you prefer it this way. If you have the essential oil, you can have several drops of it and then take a bath with it. It’s believed to relieve insect bites, eczema, cuts, and hemorrhoids.
A Word of Warning
Be advised that German chamomile may not be for everyone. It can trigger allergic reactions. If you are allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, daisies, or asters, it’s highly likely that you are also allergic to chamomile.
It’s always wise to consult your doctor before taking any chamomile – ANY TYPE of chamomile. This is especially important if you want to give it to children. You need to talk to the doctor and be ready for anything. It’s crucial that the doctor knows about your overall condition and monitor your situation. Only them can advise you the right dosage and how many you should take on a daily basis.
Final Words
In the overall end, German chamomile can be helpful, but only with proper administration and intake. It’s also important that you discuss it with your doctor and getting it approved. Don’t assume that you know everything and just take it without supervision.