Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is a very well known, small daisy-like flower. It comes from the Asteraceae family and has a long history and solid reputation for assisting with calming the mind and settling the body. You may enjoy a calming cup of chamomile tea yourself of an evening.
The History of Chamomile in Medicine
The use of Chamomile for medicinal purposes dates back as far as ancient Egypt, where it was uses to aid illnesses of fever and shivering. It was offered as a gift to the gods and was itself worshipped. In Greek society, Chamomile was prescribed for fevers and hormonal disturbances. The Greeks referred to it as ‘Ground Apple’ because of its smell. But these pleasantly aromatic flowers have more to offer than just a pleasant scent. During the middle ages, Chamomile was used for conditions as far reaching as anxiety, asthma and insomnia.
This powerful little flower packs a punch with a huge number of phenolic acids, flavonoids and anti-oxidants. The benefits of these compounds are far reaching and help it to provide the many benefits for which this herb is known.
The Benefits of Chamomile
Chamomile is most notable for its calming, relaxing effects on the digestive system as well as the nervous system. Chamomile is widely reported to have antispasmodic properties and is particularly effective for soothing stomach complaints and discomfort, especially if they have been brought on by stress or anxiety. Beyond that however, it is known to have anti-inflammatory properties and contains a number of anti-histamine chemicals making it helpful for allergic responses. Chamomile also acts to support comfort when ulcers are present as it has a healing effect on the mucosa of the gastro-intestinal tract.
Chamomile Supplement for Horses
Chamomile is of greatest benefit to horses that are tense, restless or prone to nervous colic and scouring. This herb will ease spasm in the digestive tract and associated discomfort.
The high calcium phosphate content of Chamomile supports the skeletal structure and muscular skeletal health. Besides feeding Chamomile, which horses tend to really enjoy, this herb can also be applied externally. When used as a rinse or as an ingredient in a topical lotion, it can help to alleviate itching and irritation associated with skin allergies.
The risks associated with toxicity or an allergic reaction are extremely low, making chamomile a safe ingredient to feed on an ongoing basis. With its myriad benefits for equine health, the fact that horses tend to find it palatable is a great bonus!
Chamomile is a key ingredient in our No More Nerves Supplement
Sources:
Mehmood, Malik Hassan, et al. "Antidiarrhoeal, antisecretory and antispasmodic activities of Matricaria chamomilla are mediated predominantly through K+-channels activation." BMC complementary and alternative medicine 15.1 (2015): 75.