The gold of herbal medicine

Which active ingredients in chamomile are effective?

Chamomile is more than just a pretty plant – it contains a whole range of valuable substances responsible for its soothing and healing effects. Its essential oil is particularly well known; it is obtained by steam distillation of the flowers. During this process the blue chamazulene is released, which not only gives chamomile oil its typical colour but also has a strong anti-inflammatory effect.

Another important component is alpha-bisabolol. It reduces inflammation, soothes the skin and can even inhibit the growth of certain bacteria. In addition there is matricin, which works in a way similar to cortisone and can therefore significantly reduce inflamed areas. Unlike cortisone, matricin is a substance with no known side effects.

Besides essential oils, chamomile also contains flavonoids such as apigenin and quercetin. These plant compounds support relaxation, have antispasmodic properties and help the body to calm down. They are therefore ideal for stomach problems or inner restlessness.

The mucilages in chamomile should not be forgotten either, as they form a protective layer over irritated mucous membranes – particularly in the gastrointestinal tract.

What makes chamomile special as a medicinal plant?

Chamomile is a true natural all-rounder – gentle to use, but powerful in effect. The versatile herb has an anti-inflammatory action, is muscle-relaxing, promotes wound healing and also shows antibacterial properties. This versatile combination is precisely what makes it one of the most popular medicinal plants.

Whether for skin problems such as eczema or minor inflammations in the mouth and throat: chamomile can be used both internally as tea or extract and externally as ointments, baths or rinses. It has proven particularly useful for sensitive skin, irritated mucous membranes or fungal infections in intimate areas.

Chamomile is very well tolerated, even by children, older people and those with a sensitive constitution. Thanks to its soothing and healing effects without aggressive substances, it is a natural helper for the whole family.

In which areas is the medicinal plant chamomile used?

Chamomile is used in many areas of health. It is particularly known for its beneficial effect on gastrointestinal complaints. As a tea or tincture it helps with abdominal pain, relieves spasms and soothes an irritated gut – in people of all ages. Due to its muscle-relaxing and antibacterial action, chamomile can be supportive in both diarrhoea and constipation. Chamomile is well tolerated, even by children, older people or those with a sensitive constitution.

Chamomile is also traditionally used for bladder and kidney problems. It stimulates urine production and supports the body in eliminating harmful substances more effectively. This can even be helpful for conditions such as gout or rheumatic diseases.

Furthermore, chamomile has a positive effect on the psyche. Thanks to its calming properties it is a natural aid for inner restlessness, nervousness or sleep disorders. Studies show that certain chamomile constituents can influence the body in a way similar to anxiolytic drugs – but in a natural and gentle manner.

Chamomile can also be useful for colds, a blocked nose or sore throat. Gargling or inhaling with chamomile acts anti-inflammatory and disinfecting. For dry cough, however, chamomile tea should be avoided as it can have a drying effect.

The skin also benefits from chamomile's healing properties. For acne, irritated or inflamed skin, steam baths or creams with chamomile have a soothing effect, reduce inflammation and promote wound healing. Chamomile is particularly popular in gynaecology. It relieves menstrual and lower abdominal pain and can help in sitz baths for itching, infections or haemorrhoids.

New findings from cancer research are also interesting. The substance apigenin appears to be able to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and promote their natural cell death. Early studies show promising results, but the exact effects are still being researched.

Which chamomile effects are used in cosmetics?

Chamomile is not only known as a tea, it also plays an important role in cosmetics. The active ingredient bisabolol from chamomile's essential oil is particularly sought after. This natural plant extract has several positive properties and can noticeably relieve sensitive, irritated or stressed skin.

Bisabolol works anti-inflammatory, skin-soothing and antibacterial – exactly what stressed or irritated skin needs. It can reduce redness, relieve itching and help restore the skin's balance. That is why this active ingredient is often found in creams, serums or after-sun products – especially for sensitive, dry or blemish-prone skin.

Bisabolol supports the regeneration of skin cells, promotes skin renewal and provides intensive moisture to the skin. It can smooth fine dehydration lines and contribute to a fresher, more balanced complexion.

Chamomile is also valued in cosmetics for its lightening effect, for example on pigmentation spots or an uneven complexion. At the same time its ingredients protect against free radicals that accelerate skin ageing.

How is chamomile used in aromatherapy?

In aromatherapy chamomile is regarded as a real comfort for the soul. Its pleasant, gentle scent has a calming effect on body and mind. That is why it is so valuable for inner restlessness, nervousness or sleep problems. Just a few drops of chamomile oil in a diffuser or bath additive can help release tension and restore emotional balance.

It is especially appreciated for exhaustion, low moods or stress-related complaints. Its scent is described as emotionally warming and can help release emotional blockages and give renewed energy.

Are there side effects when using chamomile?

Chamomile is generally considered very well tolerated and is therefore often used for children, older people or those with sensitive skin. But, as with many natural remedies, there are a few points to consider.

The most common side effect is an allergic reaction, especially in people who are already sensitive to other Asteraceae like mugwort or sunflowers. In these cases chamomile can cause skin rashes, itching, watery eyes, sneezing or a runny nose.

A severe allergic reaction, a so-called anaphylactic shock, is very rare but possible. This reaction is life‑threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Such cases are, however, extremely rare.

Chamomile: versatile ways to use this medicinal plant

• Try a chamomile rolling cure for stomach complaints. For irritable stomach or gastric ulcers, a rolling cure with chamomile tea can work wonders. Drink a cup in the morning on an empty stomach (1 tbsp chamomile flowers per 250 ml hot water, infuse 5–10 minutes). Then lie down for five minutes on your back, sides and stomach to distribute the beneficial substances evenly across the gastric mucosa.
• Care for chapped lips with homemade chamomile lip balm. Especially in winter this treatment is invaluable. Melt 5 g cocoa butter and 1 g beeswax in a bain-marie, add 10 g chamomile oil (flowers macerated in almond oil for 3 weeks) and 1 drop of chamomile essential oil. Pour into small tins, let cool – your natural lip care is ready.
• Boost your immune system with a chamomile oxymel. Mix 150 g honey, 50 g apple cider vinegar, ¼ lemon and 3 tbsp dried chamomile flowers in a jar. Let it steep for 2–3 weeks at room temperature, shaking daily. One tablespoon daily, neat or dissolved in water, strengthens defences and soothes the stomach.
• Drink chamomile tea for abdominal pain and bloating. Pour 250 ml boiling water over 1 tbsp chamomile flowers and let the tea steep covered for 10 minutes. 3–4 cups daily – especially between meals – relieve bloating, fullness and have an antispasmodic effect.
• Use chamomile tea as a natural mouthwash. For sore throat or gum problems, chamomile has a soothing and disinfecting effect. Simply gargle cooled tea several times a day – this gently supports the healing of mucous membranes. The tea is also excellent for throat inflammations.
• Turn to chamomile if you have trouble sleeping. A cup of chamomile tea before bedtime calms the nerves and helps you fall asleep more easily. The plant's gentle scent and relaxing effect promote falling asleep and staying asleep. Chamomile is a tried‑and‑tested aid for inner restlessness.
• Use chamomile for inhalation during a cold. A steam bath with chamomile flowers can noticeably relieve a blocked nose and inflamed sinuses. The essential oils act anti-inflammatory, expectorant and antibacterial. Inhale for about 10–15 minutes and breathe deeply – this provides quick relief.
• Care for your skin with a chamomile steam bath. For impure or irritated skin, chamomile steam helps open pores and calm inflamed areas. The active ingredients penetrate deeply and support skin healing. This treatment is especially recommended for acne or irritated skin.
• Make a chamomile compress for small wounds or sunburn. Chamomile decoction is excellent for external care of irritated skin. Soak a cloth in the tea and apply it to the affected area – ideal for grazes, minor burns or surgical scars. Repeat two to three times daily for optimal results.
• Try a chamomile sitz bath for skin or intimate complaints. A bath with chamomile flowers soothes irritated skin, relieves itching and has an anti-inflammatory effect – e.g. for haemorrhoids, eczema or atopic dermatitis. Let the decoction steep well and bathe for about 10 minutes. It is also a proven help for babies with nappy rash.
• Relieve ear pain with a warm chamomile pouch. Fill a cloth pouch with 30 g chamomile flowers, tie it closed and warm it briefly over hot water (not too hot!). Place the warm pouch on the painful ear – it soothes the pain and has a calming effect. Ideal for children; repeat 2–3 times daily.
• Use chamomile for natural hair care. A strong chamomile tea can gently lighten your hair – especially on blonde or light brown hair. After washing, pour the tea over your hair and let it air dry without rinsing. Sunlight enhances the effect and gives a lovely golden shimmer.
• Store homemade chamomile products in a cool, dark place. Whether lip balm, oil or oxymel – to keep your natural products long-lasting, store them tightly closed, cool and protected from light. This preserves the active ingredients and ensures quality. Chamomile oil can keep for up to a year under optimal conditions.
• Combine chamomile with other medicinal plants for even more effect. Chamomile blends well with lemon balm, fennel or lavender. Such mixes are particularly harmonising – for example for digestive complaints or sleep issues. Ask your pharmacy about ready-made tea blends with chamomile as the main ingredient.

Chamomile is one of the most versatile medicinal plants, showing impressive effects both internally and externally. Whether for stomach complaints, skin problems or inner unrest, its natural ingredients act gently and reliably. No wonder chamomile has been a staple of the family first-aid kit for generations.