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| As an antispasmodic herb, chamomile works on the peripheral nerves and muscles, thus indirectly relaxing the whole body. When the physical body is at ease, ease in the mind and heart follows. It can prevent or lessen cramps in the muscles, such as in the legs or abdomen. As the essential oil added to a bath, chamomile relaxes the body after a hard day while easing the cares and weight of a troubled heart and mind. |
| Being rich in essential oils, chamomile also acts on the digestive system, promoting proper function. This usually involves soothing the walls of the intestines, easing griping pains and helping with the removal of gas. It is an effective anti-inflammatory remedy internally for the digestive and respiratory systems as well as externally on the skin. A cup of hot chamomile tea is a simple, effective way of relieving indigestion, calming inflammations such as gastritis and helping prevent ulcer formation. Using the essential oil as a steam inhalation will allow the same oils to reach inflamed mucus membranes in the sinuses and lungs. |
| Chamomile is a mild antimicrobial, helping the body to destroy or resist pathogenic microorganisms. Azulene, one of the components of the essential oil, is bactericidal to staphylococcus and streptoccus infections. The oil from 0.10 g of flowers is enough to destroy three times the amount of staphylococcal toxins in two hours. |
| As an anticatarrhal, chamomile helps the body remove excess mucus buildup in the sinus area. It may be used in head colds and allergy reactions such as hay fever. Mucous is not a problem in itself, it is an essential body product. However, when too much is produced it is usually in response to an infection, helping the body remove the bacteria or excess carbohydrate from the body. |
| A review of recent scientific literature shows how much interest this venerable folk remedy is still receiving. Most of the clinical therapeutic research comes from Europe, reflecting the respect chamomile receives in the medical community there. Anti-inflammatory effects have been the |
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