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| Chamomile (Matricaria Chamomilla, Annual German Chamomile; Anthemis Noblis, Perennial Roman Chamomile) |
| Chamomile blossoms are a popular, highly effective calming herb used to help prevent anxiety, improve sleep, prevent gastrointestinal distress and improve digestion. Usually taken as an infused tea, chamomile is also popular in tinctures. Applied externally, chamomile helps prevent swelling and inflammation; cold chamomile tea bags are a traditional therapy for under-eye circles. The herb is widely used in skin care products. |
| Chamomile is most helpful to those whose heart disease is complicated by anxiety and stress. In one study, 10 of 12 patients undergoing painful cardiac catheterization fell into a deep sleep within 10 minutes of drinking chamomile tea. |
| To prevent anxiety-triggered spiking of blood pressure or heartbeat, brew medicinal strength chamomile tea (2 tsp. to 1 Tbsp. dried herb per cup of boiling water) and drink 2 to 4 cups during the day. Chamomile capsules and tinctures are equally helpful; take 2 capsules or 1 tsp. of tincture 3 times daily, then adjust the dosage as required. Chamomile is so well-tolerated that it can be taken as often as needed. Patients learning biofeedback techniques, deep breathing and other forms of stress management often find that chamomile alone or in combination with valerian, kava kava, passionflower or other relaxing nervine herbs speeds the relaxation response. |
| Cleavers (Galium Aparine) |
| A diuretic, blood-cleansing, anti-inflammatory tonic herb, cleavers has a special affinity for the urinary |
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