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Protocols: German Chamomile (Matricaria recutita L)

Psychoactive

Sedative/Sleep Aid

Description: Flower in the ragweed family. Used traditionally for gastrointestinal spasm or irritation and as a mild sedative.

Method of Action: Apigenin (a flavinoid that may have an affinity for the benzodiazepine receptor and interact with the histamine system) acts as anxiolitic to cause sedation by acting on benzodiazepine receptors in the brain. Coumarin exerts antispasmodic effect.

Indications and Usage: Mild sedative effects. Antispasmodic and antiseptic activity. Common uses are:

Anxiety: Irritable Bowel Syndrome; Menstrual Cramping; Insomnia; Irritability; Colic; Skin Conditions; Stomach Distress; Oral Irritation.

Contraindications: Do not use this product if you are pregnant or lactating without first seeking advice from your physician. Allergic reactions have occurred with some frequency with this substance. May have interactive effect with anticoagulants such as warfarin. Close monitoring is advised.

Dosage and Administration: In doses up to 30 mg/kg an anti-anxiety effect is experienced. In doses between 30 and 100 mg/kg a mild sedation is produced. Two to four grams of dried flower heads taken up to three times daily. In tea form (1.2% apigenin and 0.5% essential oils) must be allowed to steep covered for five to ten minutes. Available as a liquid extract (1 to 4 mL up to 3 times daily), or tincture (3 to 10 mL up to 3 times daily). Can be used as oil for massage, or in aromatherapy. Take between meals on an empty stomach for best effect.

Clinical Effect In: Immediate

Adverse Reactions: Potential for allergic reactions in individuals especially in individuals with ragweed allergies which can serve as an IgE marker for cross-allerginicity. Discontinue use if abdominal cramps, tongue thickness, tight sensations in throat, angioedema of lips and eyes, diffuse pruritus, generalized urticaria, upper airway obstruction and pharyngeal adema. No liver toxicity found in in vito testing. If you suspect that an herb or other supplement is making you sick, call the FDA's MedWatch hotline at 800-332-1088 or contact the agency via it's website at http://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Known Interactive Effects: Can be combined with chamomile, lemon balm, passion flower and hops. Tannin complex in this product may interfere with iron absorption and should be used with caution by patients being treated for iron deficiency. Do not use with other over-the-counter, or prescription sleep aids.

Additional Considerations: Only effective for mild anxiety situations.

Warnings: The information above is provided for educational purposes and may not be construed as a medical prescription or as a substitute for the advice of your physician. Do not use this product without first consulting your physician especially if you are pregnant or lactating. Be advised that some herbs and dietary supplements can cause severe allergic reactions in some individuals and may also have an adverse result in conjunction with other medications, or treatments. You should regularly consult your physician in matters regarding your health and particularly in respect to symptoms and conditions which may require diagnosis or medical attention. Reevaluate use of this product after 6 months.

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