How to Use Roman Chamomile During Pregnancy
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Roman chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) is not the same as German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla). The two plants look very similar, and indeed have similar actions in the body and chemical constituents, but there are some differences. Here, we’re specifically talking about Roman chamomile. Please note that Roman chamomile may be referred to as either Anthemis nobilis or Chamaemelum nobile in scientific literature; these are synonyms that refer to the same plant. We use the term Anthemis nobilis throughout this discussion to refer to Roman chamomile.
Roman Chamomile Chemical Constituents
Roman chamomile has a long list of medicinal chemical constituents that contribute to its healing properties in the body. Among these are volatile oils, minerals, sesquiterpenes, coumarins, flavonoids, hydroperoxides, catechins, polyacetylenes, phenolic acids, triterpenes, steroids, and polysaccharides. All of these different constituents work together to induce the healing effects of Roman chamomile.The flavonoids quercetin, luteolin, and apigenin are present in Roman chamomile, as are the coumarins scopoletin-7-glucoside, the Germacranolide-type sesquiterpene lactones nobilin, 3-epinobilin, 1,10 epoxynobilin, and 3-dehydronobilin, and certain organic acids, including oxalic acid, malic acid, citric acid, quinic acid, and fumaric acid.
The Conditions of Pregnancy Living Database, BETA Release - NOW AVAILABLE! Click here to learn more...Medicinal Action of Flavonoids in Roman Chamomile
Apigenin is thought to have an anti-anxiety effect that likely interacts with central benzodiazepine receptors in the body. In other words, this substance, which is found in Roman chamomile, has a benzodiazepine-like effect on the body. Animal studies show that administration of apigenin produces effects similar to benzodiazepine drugs, but without sedation or muscle relaxant effects. No anticonvulsant activity has been observed with only apigenin administration. Especially large doses of concentrated apigenin have been associated with mild sedation and reduced locomotor activity in rats, however. These effects on the nervous system are likely due to the ability of apigenin to bind to GABAa receptors in the brain. Remember though, that apigenin, is jut one of many medicinal components found in Roman chamomile. Nonetheless, it is responsible for the Roman chamomile’s calming effects.As an anti-inflammatory, apigenin specifically inhibits the production of the inflammatory cytokines TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-8. As such, Roman chamomile is an herb that can be useful in the prevention and treatment of cytokine storm during pregnancy.
Quercetin is another flavonoid in Roman chamomile that plays a role in this plant’s anti-inflammatory effects. Quercetin has anti-cancer, antiviral, and antibacterial actions in the body. Like apigenin, quercetin also inhibits some inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-alpha as well as some IFN and IL cytokines.
Roman Chamomile: How to Cure Cancer During Pregnancy
The sesquiterpene lactones include 3-epinobilin, 3-dehydronobilin, and 1,10 epoxynobilin, along with hydroxyisonobilin. These medicinal substances have been found to inhibit cell growth and division in certain cancer cell lines. These isolated compounds have specifically been observed to inhibit the growth of cervical carcinoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell lines though they may also work to inhibit other types of cancer too. If you’ve diagnosed with cervical carcinoma, nasopharygeal carcinoma, or any other type of cancer during pregnancy consider administering Roman chamomile as an herbal remedy for cancer during pregnancy. If you have been diagnosed with cancer, you may also be interested in learning about the following herbal remedies for cancer during pregnancy:- Trifolium pratense - This herbal remedy for cancer during pregnancy is one of the most important because it contains vitamin B17 / amygdalin. Click to read more about amygdalin as a cure for cancer during pregnancy here.
- Slippery Elm
- Ginger
- Dandelion Root
- Also click here to read a bit about how to use iodine to cure cancer naturally during pregancy. Click here to read about how Lugol’s iodine can be used to ensure a healthy baby and a healthy delivery.
Organic Acids in Roman Chamomile
The organic acids present in Roman chamomile are of special interest as well. Both malic acid and fumaric acid in particular work directly with the liver and gallbladder, which may explain some of the medicinal effects that Roman chamomile has on the digestive system. Malic acid is known to help dissolve gallstones and to thin bile sludge in the gallbladder, while fumaric acid is activated in the liver as a part of the energy-producing Krebs cycle, in addition to being an anti-inflammatory and detoxifying agent. Fumaric acid is also found in Cetraria indica / Iceland Moss, another pregnancy-friendly herb that is extremely useful in many contexts. Note that natural fumaric acid has a curative role on psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, and other serious diseases.Read more about fumaric acid in this article, and about malic acid here.
Quinic acid is also worth special mention. This particular acid is found not only in Roman chamomile, but also in cinchona bark, an herb that contains quinine, a powerful medicine that can be used to treat malaria, viral infections like COVID-19, leg cramps, and more. Quinic acid is also found in the bark of the Eucalyptus globulus tree, in coffee beans, and in stinging nettle (Urtica dioica). Quinic acid is also found in the bark of the Eucalyptus globulus tree, in coffee beans, and in stinging nettle (Urtica dioica). Quinic acid is found in lower quantities in stinging nettle and Roman chamomile which is why these two herbs are safe during pregnancy. Cinchona bark, however, should generally be avoided except in women who have a severe malaria infection. Click here to read more about stinging nettle as another herb that’s safe during pregnancy.
Roman Chamomile Medicinal Effects
Below is a list of the medicinal actions of Roman chamomile in the body. These apply not only during pregnancy and to women, but also to men, children, and to women who aren't pregnant.- Antibiotic
- Antiseptic
- Disinfectant
- Vermifuge / Anthelmintic
- Antispasmodic
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Abdominal spasms
- Peptic ulcer
- Indigestion
- Gastric debility
- Intestinal cramps
- Colic
- Nervous system complaints
- Restlessness
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Nervousness
- Hypertension (Roman chamomile is hypotensive)
- Insomnia
- Phobias
- Hysteria
- Anti Inflammatory
- Liver disorders
- Fever (as a diaphoretic)
- Sore throat (in the early stages)
- Diabetes (Roman chamomile is hypoglycemic)
- Insect repellant
- Antifungal
- Antiplatelet aggregatory
- Bronchodilatory
- Antioxidant
- Sedative
- Dysmenorrhea (to relieve pain and facilitate menstrual flow)
- Amenorrhea
- Cytotoxic / Anticancer
- Roman chamomile has been found to specifically have anticancer effects on cervical carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell lines.
- Asthma
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome
- Eczema
- Canker sores / Aphthous stomatitis / Aphthous ulcer
- Rubefacient
- Deobstruent
- Diuretic
- Aphrodisiac
- Galactagogue
- Expectorant
Roman Chamomile for Muscle Spasms and Pain
Roman chamomile is specifically noted for its effects in relieving pain and treating muscle spasms throughout the body. For this purpose, it can be administered to pregnant women either through an infusion, by using the essential oil either orally or topically, or through the use of infused bathwater. The essential oil can be administered topically during pregnancy by combining 5 drops of the Roman chamomile essential oil with 1 tablespoon of carrier oil. Then rub this mixture directly into areas of the skin where there’s spasming or pain. An infusion can be prepared using ¼ cup of Roman chamomile flowers (use 4 cups of water for the initial steeping phase) and then added to bathwater to help relieve aches and pains throughout the body.Roman Chamomile for Gastrointestinal Problems
One of the most common uses of Roman chamomile is for relief of digestive issues such as gas/flatulence, abdominal and intestinal cramping, colic, and indigestion. It has also been used traditionally to treat nausea, vomiting, and heartburn. Indeed, the herb has a long history of use for this purpose, and its chemical constituents do suggest that it would be well-suited to relieving GI problems, including those that can be traced back to the gallbladder and liver. Given that Roman chamomile can also fight infection, it may not only help relieve discomfort associated with infection-associated gastrointestinal problems (such as parasite infections, for example), but may directly target the infection as well.Roman chamomile is best used as an infusion for the treatment of digestive problems. The method for preparing and taking an infusion is described below in more detail
Roman Chamomile for Wound Healing and Skin Problems
The antibacterial activity of Roman chamomile contributes to its positive effects on wound healing. Animal studies have shown that administration of a topical cream containing Anthemis nobilis extracts was significantly more effective in promoting wound healing and management of infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa than other topical wound healing drugs like tetracycline. Tetracycline, of course, is a toxic drug that can cause birth defects if it is taken during pregnancy but Roman chamomile is a non-toxic alternative. Other studies indicate that Roman chamomile extracts can also be useful in the treatment of certain other skin conditions, like eczema and hemorrhoids during pregnancy.Roman Chamomile for Atopic Eczema
Topical preparations that contain Roman chamomile extracts have been used effectively as a treatment for atopic eczema. These preparations have even been found to be as effective as 0.25% hydrocortisone cream in relieving eczema symptoms. Though any type of Roman chamomile extract is likely to have positive effects in treating eczema, the Manzana variety has been noted to be especially potent in treating skin conditions like this.Kamillosan(R) cream is a preparation that contains extracts from the Manzana variety of Anthemis nobilis. Studies have shown that administration of this cream for 2 weeks was able to reduce eczema symptoms somewhat more effectively than a 0.5% hydrocortisone cream.
Roman Chamomile for Hemorrhoids
Anthemis nobilis tincture can be administered via a sitz bath as a treatment for hemorrhoids. Roman chamomile ointments may also be effective in treating hemorrhoids. Specifically, this herb works to bring down hemorrhoid-associated inflammation and pain.Roman Chamomile for Acne
A lot of women struggle with acne during pregnancy, as well as in the period immediately following birth. This is normal and due to the extreme hormone fluctuations that women experience at this time, but can still be frustrating or even painful in some cases. And, given the lack of over-the-counter medicines or other pharmaceutical drugs that can be safely used during pregnancy to manage acne, natural, safe resources like Roman chamomile can be extremely valuable.A Roman chamomile infusion can be used to wash the face or other areas of the body where acne is a problem. This infusion can be splashed onto the face, or applied using a plain cotton ball. Store for up to 3 days in the fridge, then discard and make a fresh batch of infusion.
Roman Chamomile for High Blood Pressure / Hypertension
Aqueous extracts of Roman chamomile have been shown to have vasorelaxant effects that contribute to a decrease in blood pressure levels.Roman Chamomile for Diabetes and Hyperglycemia
The glucoside chamaemeloside found in Anthemis nobilis is likely the primary constituent responsible for the hypoglycemic effects of this herb. Animal studies indicate that aqueous extracts of Roman chamomile can reduce blood glucose levels. Insulin concentration levels in these studies didn’t change after administration of Roman chamomile extracts.Roman Chamomile for Bacterial Infections
Roman chamomile has antibacterial actions against a range of different bacteria. The aqueous extracts of Anthemis nobilis have antibacterial action against:- Echerichia coli
- Staphylococcus aureus
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa
- Bacillus spp.
Roman Chamomile as an Asthma Treatment
Roman chamomile tea and extracts may have anti-asthmatic activity. Administration of Anthemis nobilis in human test subjects has been shown to successfully reduce the incidence of asthma attacks and to elevate the FEV1% and FVC levels in asthmatic patients. The FEV1/FVC ratio is a measure of vital force in patients with obstructive or restrictive lung diseases, and should ideally be 75% in normal situations.Chamazulene, a constituent of the volatile oil of Roman chamomile, may play a role in inhibiting histamine response. This particular chemical constituent in Anthemis nobilis may therefore play a role in the antiasthmatic effects of this herb. Chamazulene is also an antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory agent, which may further support relief from asthma symptoms.
Roman Chamomile for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
In animal models of induced PCOS, a daily dose of 50mg of aqueous-alcoholic extract of Anthemis nobilis has been shown to be therapeutic in the treatment of this condition. Roman chamomile was shown to reduce inflammation and lead to a decrease in estrogen levels in rats with polycystic ovarian syndrome.Roman Chamomile for Labor and Postpartum Recovery
A sitz bath containing an infusion of Roman chamomile can be used to encourage the expulsion of the fetus and placenta during/after labor.Roman Chamomile Homeopathic Remedy
Homeopathic remedies work somewhat differently from both essential oils and fresh/dried whole herbs. They must be treated differently because of this. The homeopathic remedy made from Roman chamomile is known as Chamomilla Romana, Anthemis Nobilis, or Chamaemelum Nobile. The Roman chamomile homeopathic remedy is antiseptic, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic, and is indicated for the following health issues:- Parasitic infection with Ascarides
- Dyspepsia
- Headache
- Liver problems
- Itching in the soles of the hands or feet
- Increased urinary frequency
- Anal itching
- White stools
- Pain in the right side of the abdomen
- Coldness in the abdomen and legs
- Raw, constricted feeling in the throat
- Runny nose and watery eyes
- Sneezing
- Sensitivity to cold and cold things
- Stress
- Hypertension
- Bladder distention
How to Take Roman Chamomile Homeopathic Remedy
The third potency (which is 3X) of this homeopathic remedy should be used, and in the form of drops, should be taken at a dose of 3-5 drops, 2-3 times per day in adults. It should be taken until symptoms improve.This remedy is safe in women who are pregnant and lactating, and can also be used in children. There are no side effects associated with this medicine, nor are there any contraindications for its use.
Roman Chamomile Essential Oil During Pregnancy
Click here to read more about the use of Roman chamomile essential oil during pregnancy.Roman Chamomile Dosage
Roman Chamomile: Herbal Remedy During Pregnancy Dosage
NOTE: Take care to choose a product that is explicitly labeled as containing either Anthemis nobilis or Chamamaelum nobile. Many products simply say “chamomile” and don’t necessarily specify which variety of chamomile they contain.Note also that this section is about dosing the herbal form of Anthemis nobilis not the homeopathic form of Roman chamomile.
Take an infusion made from 1-4 grams of the flower heads up to 3 times per day. Roman chamomile infusions can be prepared using fresh or dried flower heads boiled in water for 5-10 minutes. When using any herbal medicine during pregnancy, always start by using the lowest possible effective dose as a treatment. Increase the dose incrementally only on an as-needed basis; the lowest dose that works should be the dose that’s used.
Traditionally, cold infusions of Roman chamomile were used for gas/flatulence and gastric debility, while hot infusions were used to relieve colds and dysmenorrhea, as well as in an antispasmodic, diaphoretic, and sedative manner.
Roman chamomile tinctures or infusions can be used in a sitz bath for the treatment of hemorrhoids and other lesions in the genital region. Topical applications on an infusion or decoction of Roman chamomile can also be used for other skin complaints (such as wounds, eczema, or inflammatory skin rashes).
Roman chamomile infusions have also been used to relieve tired eyes or eye infections through direct application to the eyes via an eye wash. Of course, make sure that the infusion is cooled down completely if you choose to use Roman chamomile in this way (so that you don’t accidentally burn your eyes).
Roman Chamomile Allergy
If you've never used Roman chamomile before, it's wise to be aware of signs of potential allergy. This is especially true for this plant, since Anthemis nobilis is a member of the Asteraceae / Daisy plant family, to which a lot of people have some kind of an allergy. The first few times that you use Roman chamomile, keep an eye out for signs of allergy, such as hives, facial swelling, lethargy, and nausea.Roman Chamomile Interactions
In low doses, it’s unlikely that Roman chamomile poses any risk of interaction with any drug or other natural medicinal substance. However, it’s still worth noting some of the potential interactions that have been observed between this herb and other substances, just in case (note that these interactions are likely only legitimate, though, in cases where you’re taking a particularly high dose of Roman chamomile). In particular, some sources advise using caution when using Roman chamomile with other sedative drugs or herbs, since this herb may potentiate the effects of these. Roman chamomile has also been observed to potentially increase the risk of bleeding when it’s taken with blood-thinning/anticoagulant pharmaceuticals.
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Resources:
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