We study the medicinal properties and contraindications to the use of chamomile pharmacy
The Astrov family is known for its many colorful ornamental plants. Among them are pharmaceutical or medicinal chamomile, the medicinal properties and contraindications to the use of which, as Asklepius and Avicenna were concerned about, looks like a modest Cinderella. However, the value of this culture is not in flashy beauty, but in its rich biochemical composition, confirmed by modern research.
Description of the pharmacy or medicinal chamomile plant
- erect hollow stems;
- elongated dissected sheet plates;
- thin taproot;
- inflorescences of a basket with a yellow center and a white rim of petals.
But at the same time, the inflorescences covering the plant with a height of 20 cm to half a meter are quite medium-sized. Recently blossoming baskets have horizontal petals. Gradually they descend, and the yellow, hollow core inside becomes more and more convex.
Inflorescences, or rather, their composition determines the benefits and medicinal properties of pharmacy chamomile. Plant materials are harvested and dried during the period of mass flowering, when the content of bioactive components is maximum.
Biochemical composition of chamomile officinalis
Chamomile flowers are used in folk and traditional medicine recipes. The plant is appreciated by cosmetologists, used in the manufacture of creams, masks, balms and decorative cosmetics, as well as all kinds of hair care products and sensitive baby skin.
What does the herb of medicinal chamomile contain? Studying the collected heads of flowering chamomile, biochemists found:
- coumarins;
- bioflavonoids;
- organic acids, including salicylic acid, widely used in the treatment of skin and inflammatory diseases;
- phytosterols;
- polysaccharides;
- ascorbic and nicotinic acids, carotene, as well as other essential vitamins;
- proteins;
- tannins;
- gum;
- natural bitterness.
The dried inflorescences are used to obtain a valuable essential oil rich in chamomile azulene - chamazulene, which has antibacterial, analgesic and other properties. Other components of the oil are no less appreciated, for example, bisabolol, which is indispensable in cosmetology.
Medicinal properties of pharmacy chamomile
The first mention of the medicinal properties and contraindications of chamomile herb dates back to the times of Pliny the Elder, Avicenna and other ancient scientists. Then, prescribing this or that drug, the doctor was guided by his experience, observations and rare written sources. He did not have exact data on the composition of the plant, so chamomile could be recommended for headaches, fever, and a bite of a dangerous snake.
Today, medicinal products used for medicinal purposes, whether they are plant-based medicines, a decoction or infusion of chamomile, essential oil, home-made medicines should have a well-defined area of action, be really useful and have a minimum of side effects.
At the moment, in the list of medicinal properties of pharmacy chamomile:
- active disinfecting effect of decoction and oil based on flower heads of the plant;
- mild analgesic effect that helps to cope with migraine pains, discomfort during menstruation, painful bowel cramps and other problems;
- anti-inflammatory action;
- antispasmodic and anticonvulsant effects;
- the ability to gently soothe, relax, relieve signs of fatigue and stress;
- hemostatic effect;
- carminative and astringent action;
- a cleansing effect that helps to cope with the manifestations of allergies, toxicosis, and poisoning.
If there are no contraindications, the medicinal properties of chamomile are in demand for a variety of diseases, starting with adolescent acne and other skin problems, ending with diseases of the respiratory system, nervous system and digestion.
In all cases, chamomile acts gently, as safely as possible and rarely causes negative reactions in the body.
Unlike other plants, which should be taken for a short time, the instructions for the use of pharmacy chamomile do not contain strict recommendations for the duration of the course. Herbal raw materials do not contain active allergens and, while calming, do not have a depressing effect on the psyche.
Indications for the use of medicinal chamomile
In medicine, chamomile essential oil, decoctions and infusions of flowers are widely used, and also means for external and internal reception are made on their basis.
Skin diseases accompanied by inflammation and the appearance of purulent foci, eczema, dermatitis, a complicated course of acne requires a systematic approach and the use of the most effective therapy. In this case, chamomile is used on the skin of the hands, body and face as a soothing, anti-inflammatory, wound-healing external agent, but only together with other drugs and herbs.
Chamomile infusion is an indispensable tool for rinsing the mouth and throat during sore throats, colds, stomatitis, gingivitis and toothache. The astringent, pain relieving, soothing and antibacterial properties of the herb will come in handy this time too! Among other things, a modest flower helps to cope with an annoying cough, it relieves spasms, eliminates puffiness and irritation.
Gargling with chamomile is indicated for both adults and children. The broth with a neutral taste and a pleasant herbal smell is well accepted by the smallest patients and quickly relieves the patient's condition.
For diseases of the liver, digestive system, for example, gastritis, colitis or dysfunction of the gallbladder, the intake of a decoction of chamomile inside is prescribed, the benefits and harms of the drink fully depend on adherence to the doctor's recommendations, as well as on an integrated approach to treatment.
Taking chamomile at home:
- relieves spasmodic pains and flatulence;
- creates a fixing effect on diarrhea.
A popular and affordable home remedy, chamomile tea helps with headaches, chills and fever, inflammation of the oral mucosa and throat, with anxiety, fatigue, stress, insomnia.
An infusion of chamomile herb improves appetite, gently tones, but does not have an obvious stimulating effect.
Douching with chamomile and tampons soaked in medicinal plant infusion are prescribed for women suffering from inflammatory gynecological diseases, erosions, thrush and other mucosal lesions. Microclysters with a decoction help relieve pain, swelling and improve the condition of the integument with hemorrhoids.
Dryness, fatigue and discomfort after prolonged exertion, itching, redness and pronounced signs of conjunctivitis are indications for the use of compresses and rinsing with a decoction of chamomile. Outwardly, medicinal chamomile is also used for bruises, as well as as a rinse for excessive sweating.
Medicinal products based on medicinal chamomile
In home practice, a decoction or infusion of chamomile flowers is most often used. On its basis, chamomile tea is prepared, lotions, compresses, cosmetic and hair care products are made.
To prepare a decoction of medicinal chamomile flowers, dried plant materials in the proportion of one tablespoon to a glass of water:
- filled with liquid;
- put on a small fire;
- after half an hour of languor, it is removed from the plate for infusion;
- use the infusion in a warm form, after removing unnecessary inflorescences.
If the chamomile infusion is prepared in a thermos, the flowers flooded with boiling water are left in a closed vessel for 3 hours, and then the liquid is filtered and cooled.
Chamomile decoction is incredibly useful for hair and scalp. A fragrant light yellow liquid can be included in homemade masks, shampoos, wraps for increased dryness and dandruff. Pharmacy chamomile is a well-known tool for toning light hair, which, thanks to the plant, becomes not only attractively golden, but also smooth, strong, and does not lose freshness and volume for a long time.
Chamomile tea ice perfectly soothes the skin, tones and softens, simultaneously relieving irritation and dryness.
Chamomile tea, which has relaxing properties, is prepared like a decoction. For a greater effect, add to the composition of dry plant materials:
- calming valerian root;
- refreshing minty or lemon balm;
- tonic warming thyme;
- pain relieving sage.
You can sweeten a warm drink with honey. Chamomile tea with benefit and without harm to the child's body will relieve colic, improve it, and allow you to quickly calm down after active games. Children are advised to give this remedy after consulting a doctor, while strictly following the recommendations given in the instructions for use of the pharmacy chamomile.
Contraindications to the use of medicinal chamomile
With a mass of medicinal properties, chamomile has practically no contraindications. It is one of the rare plants that do not cause allergies and very rarely cause unwanted side effects. However, in the presence of chronic diseases, it is better to get a doctor's recommendation before drinking a decoction or chamomile tea, and then not exceed the prescribed doses. This is repentant both for adults and especially for children.
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, if there is no doctor's prohibition, you can use chamomile:
- to relieve toxicosis;
- to relieve headaches;
- to calm and improve sleep.
However, it must be remembered that douching with chamomile during pregnancy and for older women is not acceptable. The same fully applies to the use of tampons for the treatment of gynecological problems.