Chamomile has been used for centuries in teas as a mild, relaxing sleep aid, treatment for fevers, colds, stomach ailments, and as an anti-inflammatory, to name only a few therapeutic uses. Chamomile may be used internally or externally. Extensive scientific research over the past 20 years has confirmed many of the traditional uses for the plant and established pharmacological mechanisms for the plant's therapeutic activity, including antipeptic, antispasmodic, antipyretic, antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-allergenic activity.
Recent and on-going research has identified chamomile's specific anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, muscle relaxant, antispasmodic, anti-allergenic and sedative properties, validating its long-held reputation. This attention appears to have increased the popularity of the herb and nowadays Chamomile is included as a drug in the pharmacopoeia of 26 countries.
EQUINE
Actions: Alterative, Analgesic, Anodyne, Anti-inflammatory, Antiseptic, Antispasmodic, Aromatic, Bitter, Calmative, Carminative, Diaphoretic, Emmenagogue, Laxative, Mucilage, Nervine, Sedative, Stomachic, Tonic, Vulnerary.
Usages: Internally- Give for stress, tension and nervous conditions and those associated with digestive disorders. Also helpful for menstrual cramps. Externally- Can be applied in liquid form to wounds, bruises and skin disorders. Chamomile is best known for its relaxing qualities and can be helpful for both horse and rider for nervous tensions before competing. It will not adversely affect the performance. A bunch of the flowers hanging in the stable is said to help deter the flies.
