Scientific name:Matricaria recutita
Constituents:
- Volatile oil (a-bisabolol, azulene, chamazulene & matricin)
- Flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin, quercetin)
- Sesquiterpenes lactones
- Coumarins (umbelliferone)
- Salicylic acid
- Choline
- Fatty acids
- Mucilage
Medicinal actions:
- Anti-emetic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Bitter
- Carminative & Antispasmodic
- Demulcent
- Nervine Relaxant
- Vulnerary
Mechanism of Action & Pharmacology:
- Volatile oils bisabolol, chamazulene, azulene & matricin are primarily responsible for anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and antimicrobial effects.
- Flavonoids like apigenin are antispasmodic and have sedative effects.
- Coumarins (umbelliferone) are anti-fungal and anti-bacterial.
- Sesquiterpene lactones possibly responsible for anti-allergenic effects.
Pharmacy:
- Infusion
- Tincture
- Baths, Steams & Enemas
Safety & Toxicity Concerns:
- Is a smooth muscle relaxant and therefore may contribute to miscarriage in pregnant women, especially before 12 weeks. Best avoided in pregnancy.
- Avoid in known allergy to Asteraceae family
Interactions:
- Potential interactions with antiarrhythmics, anti-coagulants, anti-diabetic agents, anti-hypertensives, CNS depressants, SERMs, and spasmolytics.
- May inhibit non heme-Iron absorption.
