Chamomile extract has anti-inflammatory and anxiety-reducing qualities, and may aid in skin and gastrointestinal relief. It is commonly consumed as tea or available in capsule, tincture, or ointment form. Allergic reactions are common, and it may interact with some medications.
Chamomile extract is derived from the chamomile flower, which is popularly used in herbal teas. Many who consume chamomile tea or take the extract do so for its relaxing and anxiety-reducing qualities. It may also be effective in reducing inflammation, relieving skin problems such as eczema, and aiding in gastrointestinal relief. The most common side effects to chamomile extract are allergic reactions, particularly among those who have allergies to any other plant in the Asteraceae family to which chamomile belongs.
Most chamomile is consumed in the form of a tea, although the extract may be available as a capsule, tincture, or ointment. Chamomile ointment is believed to be as effective as hydrocortisone in reducing itching and inflammation associated with eczema. Many other skin problems such as acne are also believed to subside with the help of chamomile.
Chamomile extract contains concentrated amounts of compounds found in the chamomile flower, such as flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory qualities. Many of the compounds in the plant are promoted for antioxidant, anti-ulcer, and antimicrobial uses. One of the most popular uses for chamomile is its anxiolytic, or anxiety-reducing, effect. Chamomile tea is often consumed for its relaxing qualities, including as a sleep aid.
Another claim for chamomile is that it serves as an effective digestive aid. Due to its antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, it can relieve stomach ulcers, heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome, nausea, and morning sickness. Chamomile extract can also help prevent diarrhea and hemorrhoids. However, many claims about its ability to relieve digestive and other ailments are inconclusive and have not been reviewed by the US Food and Drug Administration.
Mild to moderate cases of generalized anxiety disorder have improved by taking chamomile. The Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology conducted a study in which subjects in an experimental group were given chamomile extract, and subjects in a control group were given placebos. Those in the experimental group showed significant decreases in anxiety levels.
Allergic reactions to chamomile and its extract are quite common. Skin rashes, itching, abdominal discomfort, and throat swelling have been reported, despite the fact that such reactions are contraindicators of the ailments they are meant to alleviate. It is recommended that people with allergies to any other plant in the Asteraceae family, such as echinacea, dandelion, and sunflower, avoid chamomile. There may be some adverse interactions between chamomile extract and some medications, such as anticoagulant medications.
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