German Chamomile – An Anticonvulsant Miracle

scientific name : Matricaria chamomile common name : German chamomile uses ; inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and gastrointestinal spasms, mucous membrane and Ano-genital inflammation, as well as bacterial skin diseases.

Introduction

German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla Linn.), also known as Chamomile, is a popular herb native to Europe.

It is also grown in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. In the Unani system of medicine, it is referred to as Baabunaa.

It is used for the treatment of inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and gastrointestinal spasms, mucous membrane and Ano-genital inflammation, as well as bacterial skin diseases.

Traditional Uses of German Chamomile

German Chamomile is known for its various medicinal properties. It is a sedative and anticonvulsant, making it useful in soothing and calming the nerves. It also acts as a carminative and antispasmodic, helping to relieve gastrointestinal spasms.

Additionally, it has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. It is often compared to Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis L.), which has similar medicinal benefits.

The German Commission E and The British Herbal Compendium recognize its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties in these applications. The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia also confirms its effectiveness as an anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic agent.

Chemical Constituents of German Chamomile

The flowers of German Chamomile contain a volatile oil, which can be extracted and used for medicinal purposes.

The oil contains various compounds including alpha-bisabolol, chamazulene, guiazuline, matricine, flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin) and their glycosides (patuletin, quercetin), spiroethers, coumarins, and polysaccharides.

The volatile oil can also be used to make herbal tea, which is commonly used for coughs, colds, and to promote the flow of gastric secretions and bile.

Key Components and Their Benefits

Chamazulene, a compound found in German Chamomile, is responsible for its anti-inflammatory activity. Matricine and (-)-alpha-bisabolol also exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

(-)-alpha-bisabolol has been shown to have a healing effect on burns and exhibits ulceroprotective activity. Spiroethers and apigenin have a spasmolytic effect similar to papaverine.

The polysaccharides found in German Chamomile are immunostimulating and activate macrophages and B lymphocytes, making them useful in wound healing.

scientific name : Matricaria chamomile common name : German chamomile uses ; inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and gastrointestinal spasms, mucous membrane and Ano-genital inflammation, as well as bacterial skin diseases.
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Anticonvulsant Property of German Chamomile

In addition to its various medicinal properties, German Chamomile has also shown promising results in preclinical studies.

A crude aqueous extract of the plant has been found to delay the onset of convulsions and reduce mortality rates caused by picrotoxin.

Conclusion

In conclusion, German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla Linn.) is a versatile herb with a wide range of medicinal properties. It is commonly used for its sedative, anticonvulsant, carminative, antispasmodic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic effects.

The presence of compounds such as chamazulene, matricine, (-)-alpha-bisabolol, and polysaccharides contribute to its therapeutic effects. It can be taken internally or used externally for various conditions, including gastrointestinal disorders and skin inflammation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is German Chamomile?

German Chamomile, also known as Chamomile, is an herb native to Europe and is grown in certain regions of India. It is referred to as Baabunaa in the Unani system of medicine.

What are the medicinal properties of German Chamomile?

German Chamomile is known for its sedative, anticonvulsant, carminative, antispasmodic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties.

How does German Chamomile help with soothing the nerves?

German Chamomile acts as a sedative and anticonvulsant, making it useful in soothing and calming the nerves.

What conditions can German Chamomile be used for?

German Chamomile can be used for the treatment of inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, gastrointestinal spasms, skin inflammation, mucous membrane inflammation, ano-genital inflammation, and bacterial skin diseases.

How is German Chamomile taken internally?

German Chamomile can be taken internally for conditions such as gastrointestinal diseases by using it as a tea or in the form of an extract.

What are the external applications of German Chamomile?

German Chamomile can be applied externally for the treatment of skin inflammation, mucous membrane inflammation, and ano-genital inflammation.

What are the recognized properties of German Chamomile by The German Commission E and The British Herbal Compendium?

The German Commission E and The British Herbal Compendium recognize the anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties of German Chamomile in the treatment of various conditions.

What compounds are found in the flowers of German Chamomile?

The flowers of German Chamomile contain a volatile oil, which contains compounds such as alpha-bisabolol, chamazulene, guiazuline, matricine, flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin) and their glycosides (patuletin, quercetin), spiroethers, coumarins, and polysaccharides.

What can the volatile oil of German Chamomile be used for?

The volatile oil of German Chamomile can be used for medicinal purposes and to make herbal tea, which is commonly used for coughs, colds, and to promote gastric secretions and bile flow.

What is the role of chamazulene in German Chamomile?

Chamazulene, a compound found in German Chamomile, is responsible for its anti-inflammatory activity.

What are the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of German Chamomile?

Matricine and (-)-alpha-bisabolol also exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

Can German Chamomile heal burns?

(-)-alpha-bisabolol, a compound found in German Chamomile, has been shown to have a healing effect on burns.

What effect does German Chamomile have on spasms?

German Chamomile contains compounds such as spiroethers and apigenin that have a spasmolytic effect similar to papaverine.

How do the polysaccharides in German Chamomile contribute to its effects?

The polysaccharides found in German Chamomile are immunostimulating and activate immune cells, making them useful in wound healing.

Have there been any preclinical studies on German Chamomile?

Yes, a crude aqueous extract of German Chamomile has shown promising results in delaying the onset of convulsions and reducing mortality rates caused by picrotoxin.

Can German Chamomile be used for other conditions not mentioned?

German Chamomile has been traditionally used for other conditions and further research is needed to explore its potential in clinical settings.

Is German Chamomile the same as Roman Chamomile?

German Chamomile is often compared to Roman Chamomile, as they both have similar medicinal benefits.

Where else is German Chamomile grown?

Apart from Europe, German Chamomile is also grown in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh in India.

Is German Chamomile safe to use?

German Chamomile is generally considered safe to use when used as directed.

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Fenugreek – A Hair Growth Stimulant

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum Linn.) is a plant widely cultivated in many parts of India. Fenugreek seeds have been traditionally used for their medicinal properties. They are known to be effective in treating loss of appetite, flatulence, dyspepsia, colic, diarrhea, dysentery, and enlargement of the liver and spleen. They are also used as a galactagogue and puerperal tonic.   Names and Habitat Of Fenugreek It has various names in different traditional systems of medicine. In Ayurveda, it is known as Methikaa, Methi, Vastikaa, Selu, Methini, Dipani, Bahupatrikaa, Bodhaini, and Gandhaphala. In Unani medicine, it is called Hulbaa and Methi, and in Siddha/Tamil medicine, it is known as Vendhayam. Traditional Uses Of Fenugreek Recent research has shown that fenugreek seeds have secretolytic, hyperemic, and mild antiseptic properties. The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia has reported that fenugreek seeds have demulcent and hypoglycemic actions. The European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy (ESCOP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have also listed fenugreek seeds as a recommended adjuvant therapy for diabetes mellitus, anorexia, and hypercholesterolemia. Chemical Constituents Of Fenugreek Fenugreek seeds contain various bioactive compounds, including alkaloids such as trigonelline, gentianine, and carpaine. They also contain saponins, mainly based on the sapogenins diosgenin, yamogenin, gitogenin, and tigogenin. Flavonoids like vitexin and its glycosides and esters, as well as luteolin, can also be found in fenugreek seeds. Additionally, fenugreek seeds contain a small amount of volatile oil. The mucilage in fenugreek seeds is mostly composed of a galactomannan. Key Components Of Fenugreek One of the notable compounds found in fenugreek seeds is 4-hydroxyisoleucine, which makes up about 80% of the total content of free amino acids in the seeds. This compound has been found to directly stimulate insulin production. Fenugreek seeds also contain fenugreekine, a C-steroidal sapogenin peptide ester that exhibits hypoglycemic activity. Saponin-rich extracts from fenugreek seeds have been shown to reduce blood levels of cholesterol, while the fibrous fraction of the seeds can lower blood lipids. Potential Health Benefits The aqueous extract of fenugreek seeds has demulcent properties and has been shown to promote healing of gastric ulcers in rats. It also has a smooth muscle relaxing effect in rabbits without affecting the heart or blood pressure. Fenugreek has been reported to stimulate the liver microsomal cytochrome P450-dependent aryl hydroxylase and cytochrome b5 in rats, and increased bile secretion has been observed. Fenugreek extract containing trigonelline and trigonellic acid may be used as a hair growth stimulant. Dosage Of Fenugreek The recommended dosage of fenugreek seed powder is 3-5 grams. Frequenty Asked Questions (FAQs) What is fenugreek?Fenugreek is a plant widely cultivated in India with various names in different traditional systems of medicine. What are the names of fenugreek in Ayurveda?In Ayurveda, fenugreek is known as Methikaa, Methi, Vastikaa, Selu, Methini, Dipani, Bahupatrikaa, Bodhaini, and Gandhaphala. What are the medicinal uses of fenugreek seeds?Fenugreek seeds have been used to treat loss of appetite, flatulence, dyspepsia, colic, diarrhea, dysentery, and enlargement of the liver and spleen. They are also used as a galactagogue and puerperal tonic. What are the recent findings about fenugreek seeds?Recent research has shown that fenugreek seeds have secretolytic, hyperemic, and mild antiseptic properties. What actions do fenugreek seeds have according to the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia?According to the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia, fenugreek seeds have demulcent and hypoglycemic actions. What conditions are fenugreek seeds recommended for?The European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy (ESCOP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend fenugreek seeds as an adjuvant therapy for diabetes mellitus, anorexia, and hypercholesterolemia. What are the bioactive compounds found in fenugreek seeds?Fenugreek seeds contain alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, volatile oils, and a galactomannan mucilage. What are the benefits of 4-hydroxyisoleucine in fenugreek seeds?4-hydroxyisoleucine in fenugreek seeds stimulates insulin production and acts as a hypoglycemic compound. What is fenugreekine and what does it do?Fenugreekine is a C-steroidal sapogenin peptide ester found in fenugreek seeds that exhibits hypoglycemic activity. How can fenugreek seeds lower blood cholesterol levels?Saponin-rich extracts from fenugreek seeds have been shown to reduce blood levels of cholesterol. What healing properties does the aqueous extract of fenugreek seeds have?The aqueous extract of fenugreek seeds has demulcent properties and promotes healing of gastric ulcers. Does fenugreek have any effects on smooth muscle?Fenugreek has a smooth muscle relaxing effect in rabbits without affecting the heart or blood pressure. How does fenugreek affect the liver?Fenugreek stimulates the liver microsomal cytochrome P450-dependent aryl hydroxylase and cytochrome b5 in rats, and increased bile secretion has been observed. Can fenugreek be used for hair growth?Fenugreek extract containing trigonelline and trigonellic acid may be used as a hair growth stimulant. What is the recommended dosage of fenugreek seed powder?The recommended dosage of fenugreek seed powder is 3-5 grams. Is fenugreek safe to use?Fenugreek is generally considered safe when used in moderate amounts. However, it may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Can fenugreek interact with medications?Fenugreek can interact with certain medications, such as anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs, due to its blood-thinning properties. Are there any side effects of fenugreek?Some people may experience gastrointestinal discomfort, diarrhea, or a maple syrup-like odor in their urine when consuming fenugreek. Can fenugreek be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?It's best to consult with a healthcare professional before using fenugreek during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as its safety during these stages is not well-established. Where can I purchase fenugreek seeds?Fenugreek seeds can be found at health food stores, specialty spice shops, and online retailers.

Introduction

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum Linn.) is a plant widely cultivated in many parts of India.

Fenugreek seeds have been traditionally used for their medicinal properties.

They are known to be effective in treating loss of appetite, flatulence, dyspepsia, colic, diarrhea, dysentery, and enlargement of the liver and spleen. They are also used as a galactagogue and puerperal tonic.

Names and Habitat Of Fenugreek

It has various names in different traditional systems of medicine.

In Ayurveda, it is known as Methikaa, Methi, Vastikaa, Selu, Methini, Dipani, Bahupatrikaa, Bodhaini, and Gandhaphala.

In Unani medicine, it is called Hulbaa and Methi, and in Siddha/Tamil medicine, it is known as Vendhayam.

Traditional Uses Of Fenugreek

Recent research has shown that fenugreek seeds have secretolytic, hyperemic, and mild antiseptic properties. The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia has reported that fenugreek seeds have demulcent and hypoglycemic actions.

The European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy (ESCOP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have also listed fenugreek seeds as a recommended adjuvant therapy for diabetes mellitus, anorexia, and hypercholesterolemia.

Chemical Constituents Of Fenugreek

Fenugreek seeds contain various bioactive compounds, including alkaloids such as trigonelline, gentianine, and carpaine.

They also contain saponins, mainly based on the sapogenins diosgenin, yamogenin, gitogenin, and tigogenin.

Flavonoids like vitexin and its glycosides and esters, as well as luteolin, can also be found in fenugreek seeds.

Additionally, fenugreek seeds contain a small amount of volatile oil. The mucilage in fenugreek seeds is mostly composed of a galactomannan.

Key Components Of Fenugreek

One of the notable compounds found in fenugreek seeds is 4-hydroxyisoleucine, which makes up about 80% of the total content of free amino acids in the seeds. This compound has been found to directly stimulate insulin production.

Fenugreek seeds also contain fenugreekine, a C-steroidal sapogenin peptide ester that exhibits hypoglycemic activity.

Saponin-rich extracts from fenugreek seeds have been shown to reduce blood levels of cholesterol, while the fibrous fraction of the seeds can lower blood lipids.

scientific name : Trigonella foenum common name : fenugreek uses : loss of appetite, flatulence, dyspepsia, colic, diarrhea, dysentery, and enlargement of the liver and spleen.
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Potential Health Benefits

The aqueous extract of fenugreek seeds has demulcent properties and has been shown to promote healing of gastric ulcers in rats. It also has a smooth muscle relaxing effect in rabbits without affecting the heart or blood pressure.

Fenugreek has been reported to stimulate the liver microsomal cytochrome P450-dependent aryl hydroxylase and cytochrome b5 in rats, and increased bile secretion has been observed.

Fenugreek extract containing trigonelline and trigonellic acid may be used as a hair growth stimulant.

Dosage Of Fenugreek

The recommended dosage of fenugreek seed powder is 3-5 grams.

Frequenty Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is fenugreek?
Fenugreek is a plant widely cultivated in India with various names in different traditional systems of medicine.

What are the names of fenugreek in Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, fenugreek is known as Methikaa, Methi, Vastikaa, Selu, Methini, Dipani, Bahupatrikaa, Bodhaini, and Gandhaphala.

What are the medicinal uses of fenugreek seeds?
Fenugreek seeds have been used to treat loss of appetite, flatulence, dyspepsia, colic, diarrhea, dysentery, and enlargement of the liver and spleen. They are also used as a galactagogue and puerperal tonic.

What are the recent findings about fenugreek seeds?
Recent research has shown that fenugreek seeds have secretolytic, hyperemic, and mild antiseptic properties.

What actions do fenugreek seeds have according to the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia?
According to the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia, fenugreek seeds have demulcent and hypoglycemic actions.

What conditions are fenugreek seeds recommended for?
The European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy (ESCOP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend fenugreek seeds as an adjuvant therapy for diabetes mellitus, anorexia, and hypercholesterolemia.

What are the bioactive compounds found in fenugreek seeds?
Fenugreek seeds contain alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, volatile oils, and a galactomannan mucilage.

What are the benefits of 4-hydroxyisoleucine in fenugreek seeds?
4-hydroxyisoleucine in fenugreek seeds stimulates insulin production and acts as a hypoglycemic compound.

What is fenugreekine and what does it do?
Fenugreekine is a C-steroidal sapogenin peptide ester found in fenugreek seeds that exhibits hypoglycemic activity.

How can fenugreek seeds lower blood cholesterol levels?
Saponin-rich extracts from fenugreek seeds have been shown to reduce blood levels of cholesterol.

What healing properties does the aqueous extract of fenugreek seeds have?
The aqueous extract of fenugreek seeds has demulcent properties and promotes healing of gastric ulcers.

Does fenugreek have any effects on smooth muscle?
Fenugreek has a smooth muscle relaxing effect in rabbits without affecting the heart or blood pressure.

How does fenugreek affect the liver?
Fenugreek stimulates the liver microsomal cytochrome P450-dependent aryl hydroxylase and cytochrome b5 in rats, and increased bile secretion has been observed.

Can fenugreek be used for hair growth?
Fenugreek extract containing trigonelline and trigonellic acid may be used as a hair growth stimulant.

What is the recommended dosage of fenugreek seed powder?
The recommended dosage of fenugreek seed powder is 3-5 grams.

Is fenugreek safe to use?
Fenugreek is generally considered safe when used in moderate amounts. However, it may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

Can fenugreek interact with medications?
Fenugreek can interact with certain medications, such as anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs, due to its blood-thinning properties.

Are there any side effects of fenugreek?
Some people may experience gastrointestinal discomfort, diarrhea, or a maple syrup-like odor in their urine when consuming fenugreek.

Can fenugreek be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
It’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before using fenugreek during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as its safety during these stages is not well-established.

Where can I purchase fenugreek seeds?
Fenugreek seeds can be found at health food stores, specialty spice shops, and online retailers.

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