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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Matricaria Chamomilla
Brand Name
Chamomilla
Generic Name
Matricaria Chamomilla
Active Ingredient
Matricaria ChamomillaCategory
Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Variants
10
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Before using any prescription or over-the-counter medication for Chamomilla, you must consult a qualified healthcare professional.
| 1 [hp_M]/[hp_M] | PELLET | ORAL | 0220-1257 |
| 12 [hp_X]/12[hp_X] | PELLET | ORAL | 0220-1261 |
| 10 [hp_M]/10[hp_M] | PELLET | ORAL | 0220-1260 |
| 30 [hp_X]/30[hp_X] | PELLET | ORAL | 0220-1264 |
| 6 [hp_C]/6[hp_C] | PELLET | ORAL | 0220-1245 |
| 15 [hp_C]/15[hp_C] | PELLET | ORAL | 0220-1252 |
| 200 [kp_C]/200[kp_C] | PELLET | ORAL | 0220-1256 |
Detailed information about Chamomilla
Matricaria Chamomilla is a non-standardized plant allergenic extract and botanical agent used in allergy diagnostics, immunotherapy, and as a therapeutic herb for its anti-inflammatory and sedative properties.
The dosage of Matricaria Chamomilla varies significantly based on the intended use (diagnostic vs. therapeutic) and the specific formulation used.
For diagnostic skin prick testing, a concentration of 1:10 or 1:20 (weight/volume) is typically used. For immunotherapy, the dose is highly individualized. It begins with a very dilute 'starter' dose (e.g., 0.1 mL of a 1:100,000 dilution) and is gradually increased over several months to a maintenance dose, which may range from 0.5 mL of a 1:100 or 1:10 dilution, depending on patient tolerance and clinical response.
For general health purposes, the standard adult dose of dried chamomile flower heads is 220 mg to 1,600 mg daily, often divided into two or three doses. If using a standardized extract (containing 1.2% apigenin), a common dose is 400 mg to 800 mg once daily.
Matricaria Chamomilla has been studied in children for conditions like infantile colic and diarrhea, but its use as an allergenic extract in children requires extreme caution.
There are no specific dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling for patients with renal impairment. However, because metabolites are excreted renally, patients with Stage 4 or 5 Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) should be monitored for increased sedation or GI upset.
Since the liver is the primary site for the metabolism of chamomile's flavonoids and terpenoids, patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C) should use lower doses of oral supplements to avoid potential accumulation and toxicity.
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the sedative effects of Matricaria Chamomilla. It is recommended to start at the lower end of the dosing range (e.g., 220 mg daily) to assess tolerance and minimize the risk of falls or cognitive impairment.
If you miss a dose of an oral supplement, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. If you miss an immunotherapy injection, contact your allergist immediately; your dosing schedule may need to be adjusted or 're-started' at a lower concentration to ensure safety.
Signs of an overdose of Matricaria Chamomilla may include severe nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and extreme drowsiness. In the case of an immunotherapy overdose, the primary risk is anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic reaction). Symptoms of anaphylaxis include swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing, a rapid drop in blood pressure, and hives. If an overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical attention or contact a poison control center immediately.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions. Do not adjust your dose without medical guidance.
Matricaria Chamomilla is generally well-tolerated, but some individuals may experience mild adverse effects, particularly when starting therapy. Common side effects include:
Matricaria Chamomilla, while natural, is a potent pharmacological agent that requires careful handling. The most critical safety concern is the potential for cross-reactivity. If you are allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, or daisies, you are at a significantly higher risk of a severe allergic reaction to chamomile. Always inform your healthcare provider of your full allergy profile before using this substance.
There are no specific FDA black box warnings for Matricaria Chamomilla flower products. However, if the product is being used as part of a Standardized or Non-Standardized Allergenic Extract injection, it carries a general class warning: "This product may cause severe life-threatening systemic reactions, including anaphylactic shock. Patients should be observed for at least 30 minutes after injection, and epinephrine must be available."
Matricaria Chamomilla contains several proteins that can trigger IgE-mediated hypersensitivity. Anaphylaxis has been reported following the ingestion of chamomile tea and the use of chamomile-containing enemas. Patients with a history of severe asthma are at increased risk for more severe reactions during allergen immunotherapy.
While there are no absolute contraindications with specific drugs that are universally 'banned,' the following combination is considered highly dangerous:
Matricaria Chamomilla must NEVER be used in the following circumstances:
Matricaria Chamomilla is generally classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C (or considered 'Use with Caution' in herbal monographs). There is insufficient high-quality clinical data to rule out risks to the fetus. Historically, chamomile has been used in high doses to stimulate the uterus and induce menstruation, which poses a theoretical risk of miscarriage or preterm labor. However, the occasional consumption of chamomile tea is generally regarded as safe by most obstetricians. Pregnant women should avoid concentrated extracts or essential oils unless specifically directed by their physician.
Components of Matricaria Chamomilla, including its essential oils and flavonoids, likely pass into breast milk in small amounts. While there are no documented cases of toxicity in nursing infants, chamomile's sedative effects could theoretically cause lethargy in the baby. Mothers should monitor their infants for unusual sleepiness or poor feeding if they are consuming large amounts of chamomile.
Chamomile is frequently used in pediatric populations for colic, teething, and diarrhea. However, the risk of developing an allergy is a concern.
Matricaria Chamomilla exerts its effects through a complex interplay of phytochemicals. The primary mechanism for its sedative effect is the binding of apigenin to central GABA-A receptors in the brain, which enhances inhibitory neurotransmission. Unlike benzodiazepines, apigenin does not seem to cause significant muscle relaxation.
Its anti-inflammatory action is mediated by chamazulene and alpha-bisabolol, which inhibit the 5-lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) pathways. Additionally, the extract shows Ammonium Ion Binding Activity [MoA], which may play a role in its metabolic effects. The Adrenergic alpha and beta-agonist activities suggest a role in modulating smooth muscle tone in the vasculature and bronchi.
Common questions about Chamomilla
Matricaria Chamomilla, or German Chamomile, is primarily used in clinical medicine as an allergenic extract for diagnosing and treating allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family. Beyond its diagnostic use, it is widely employed as a natural remedy for insomnia, anxiety, and various gastrointestinal issues like upset stomach and gas. It is also found in topical preparations to soothe skin irritation and inflammation. In some clinical settings, it is used for its mild anti-spasmodic effects on the digestive tract. Always consult your doctor before using it for a specific medical condition.
The most common side effects of Matricaria Chamomilla include mild drowsiness, nausea, and dizziness. When applied to the skin, some people may experience redness or an itchy rash known as contact dermatitis. While generally safe, the most significant risk is an allergic reaction, which can range from mild hives to severe anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals. People who are allergic to ragweed or daisies are particularly prone to these side effects. If you experience any swelling of the throat or difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical help immediately.
It is generally advised to avoid or strictly limit alcohol consumption while taking Matricaria Chamomilla. Both chamomile and alcohol act as central nervous system depressants, meaning they slow down brain activity and can cause sedation. When taken together, their effects are additive, which can lead to excessive sleepiness, impaired motor coordination, and a higher risk of accidents. This combination can also increase the risk of respiratory depression in sensitive individuals. Always discuss your alcohol intake with your healthcare provider when starting a new supplement.
Matricaria Chamomilla should be used with caution during pregnancy. While a cup of chamomile tea is generally considered safe, high-dose extracts or essential oils should be avoided because they may act as a uterine stimulant. Historically, chamomile has been used to induce menstruation, which could theoretically increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm labor. There is limited clinical data on its safety for the developing fetus, so it is classified as a 'use with caution' substance. Always consult your obstetrician before using any herbal products during pregnancy.
The time it takes for Matricaria Chamomilla to work depends on the form and the condition being treated. For sleep and anxiety, oral forms typically take 30 to 60 minutes to produce a noticeable sedative effect. For gastrointestinal issues, relief from gas or cramping may occur within an hour of ingestion. Topical applications for skin inflammation may take several hours or even a few days of consistent use to show improvement. If you are undergoing allergy immunotherapy, it can take several months of regular injections before you notice a significant reduction in your allergy symptoms.
Yes, you can generally stop taking oral Matricaria Chamomilla supplements suddenly without experiencing physical withdrawal symptoms. Unlike some prescription sedatives, chamomile does not typically cause a physical dependence. However, if you were using it to manage chronic insomnia or anxiety, you may find that your symptoms return once you stop. If you are receiving Matricaria Chamomilla as part of an allergy immunotherapy program, you should not stop treatment without consulting your allergist, as stopping will halt the desensitization process and may require you to restart the protocol.
If you miss a dose of an oral chamomile supplement, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular routine; never take two doses at once to make up for a missed one. If you miss an appointment for a Matricaria Chamomilla allergy injection, call your doctor's office immediately. Missing an immunotherapy dose can increase the risk of a reaction when you resume, so your doctor may need to adjust your next dose to a lower concentration for safety.
There is no clinical evidence to suggest that Matricaria Chamomilla causes weight gain. In fact, because it is often used to soothe digestive issues and reduce stress-related eating, some people find it helpful as part of a general wellness plan. However, everyone's body reacts differently to supplements. If you notice unexpected weight changes while taking chamomile, it is important to look at other factors such as diet, exercise, or other medications you may be taking. Discuss any significant weight changes with your healthcare provider to rule out underlying medical conditions.
Matricaria Chamomilla can interact with several types of medications, so caution is necessary. It may increase the risk of bleeding if taken with blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin. It can also increase the sedative effects of benzodiazepines, sleep aids, and certain pain medications. Furthermore, chamomile may interfere with how your liver processes certain drugs by affecting the CYP3A4 enzyme. Because of these potential interactions, it is vital to provide your doctor or pharmacist with a complete list of all the medications and supplements you are currently using.
Matricaria Chamomilla is a botanical ingredient, so the term 'generic' works a bit differently than it does for synthetic drugs. It is widely available under many different brand names as a dietary supplement, tea, and topical cream. For clinical use as an allergenic extract, it is produced by several different laboratories as a non-standardized extract. While these extracts are essentially the same active ingredient, they may vary slightly in potency between manufacturers. Always try to use the same brand or source for your supplements to ensure consistent dosing and talk to your pharmacist about quality standards.
Other drugs with the same active ingredient (Matricaria Chamomilla)
> Warning: Stop taking Matricaria Chamomilla and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these.
Prolonged use of Matricaria Chamomilla is generally considered safe; however, there are considerations for long-term therapy:
No FDA black box warnings currently exist for Matricaria Chamomilla as a botanical supplement. However, for Allergenic Extracts as a class, the FDA requires prominent warnings regarding the risk of severe systemic reactions, including anaphylaxis. These extracts must only be administered in settings where emergency medical care is immediately available.
Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider. Monitoring for signs of allergic progression is essential during the first several weeks of use.
There is currently no evidence that Matricaria Chamomilla causes QT prolongation or significant cardiac arrhythmias at standard doses. However, its interaction with the adrenergic system suggests that patients with unstable arrhythmias should use it only under medical supervision.
For patients undergoing allergen immunotherapy with Matricaria Chamomilla extracts, the following monitoring is required:
Because Matricaria Chamomilla can cause significant drowsiness and sedation, patients should avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or engaging in hazardous activities until they know how the substance affects them. This is particularly important when combining chamomile with alcohol or other CNS depressants.
Alcohol can significantly potentiate (increase) the sedative effects of Matricaria Chamomilla. Combining the two can lead to excessive respiratory depression, impaired coordination, and increased risk of accidents. It is advised to limit or avoid alcohol consumption while using chamomile therapeutically.
There is no evidence of a physical withdrawal syndrome associated with the discontinuation of Matricaria Chamomilla. However, if used for chronic insomnia or anxiety, symptoms may return (rebound) upon stopping. For immunotherapy, stopping the injections abruptly will result in a loss of desensitization, and the process may need to be restarted from the beginning if therapy is resumed later.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions with your healthcare provider before starting Matricaria Chamomilla.
For each major interaction, the management strategy usually involves dose adjustment of the primary medication or spacing the administration of the two substances. Always consult a pharmacist to check for specific drug-herb interactions.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
Cross-sensitivity is a major clinical concern with Matricaria Chamomilla. If you are allergic to any of the following, you are likely cross-sensitive to chamomile:
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history before prescribing or recommending Matricaria Chamomilla.
In patients over age 65, the primary concerns are polypharmacy and fall risk. Because the elderly often take multiple medications (e.g., blood thinners, blood pressure meds), the risk of drug interactions is significantly higher. Additionally, the sedative effect of chamomile can contribute to nighttime confusion (sundowning) and increase the risk of falls and fractures. Lower doses are recommended for this population.
In patients with impaired kidney function, the clearance of chamomile metabolites may be delayed. While no specific GFR-based (Glomerular Filtration Rate) dosing exists, clinicians should monitor for signs of accumulation, such as persistent dizziness or gastrointestinal distress. Chamomile is not known to be cleared by hemodialysis.
Patients with liver cirrhosis or hepatitis may have a reduced capacity to metabolize the flavonoids in Matricaria Chamomilla. This can lead to higher systemic levels and an increased risk of side effects. Use with caution in patients with a Child-Pugh score of B or C.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment to ensure safety and efficacy.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | ~10-15% (Oral) |
| Protein Binding | High (~90% for Apigenin) |
| Half-life | 2 - 5 hours |
| Tmax | 1.5 - 2 hours |
| Metabolism | Hepatic (CYP3A4, Glucuronidation) |
| Excretion | Renal (70%), Fecal (25%) |
Matricaria Chamomilla belongs to the Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extract [EPC] class. It is also categorized as a botanical sedative and anti-inflammatory agent. Related medications in the allergenic extract class include Ragweed Pollen and Grass Pollen extracts.