Chamomile

Part Used: flowers, herb

Energetics: bitter pungent/ cooling/ pungent KP- V+ (in excess)

Tissues: plasma, blood, muscles, marrow and nerve

Systems: respiratory, digestive, nervous

Actions: diaphoretic, carminative, nervine, antispasmodic, analgesic, emmenagogue, emetic

Indications: headaches, indigestion, digestive and nervous problems of children, colic, eye inflammations, jaundice, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea

Precautions: large dosages are emetic and may aggravate Vata

Preparation: infusion (hot or cold), powder (250 to 1 g), paste

CHAMOMILE is a popular beverage tea with many therapeutic values. In moderate amounts it is good for all constitutions, and it is a particularly good beverage for Pitta. It helps relieve bilious, digestive headaches, relieves congestion of the blood and promotes menstruation. It is a sattvic herb that is very balancing to the emotions. It sedates nerve pain and strengthens the eyes.

A little fresh ginger prepared with it makes chamomile a completely balanced beverage and counters any emetic effect it might have. Externally, it can be used as an eye wash or as a poultice for nerve pains. For most medical purposes its action is mild and serves as a harmonizing adjunct.