Evidence supporting the use of: English Chamomile
For the health condition: Cramps (menstrual)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
English Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) has a long history of traditional use for relieving menstrual cramps. The herb has been used in European folk medicine for centuries as a general remedy for pain, spasms, and digestive discomfort. Historical accounts and herbal texts frequently mention chamomile tea as a calming agent for the uterus and the nervous system, which is thought to help ease menstrual pain and cramping. The primary active components, such as flavonoids (particularly apigenin), and volatile oils (like bisabolol), are known for their mild anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, supporting the traditional rationale for its use.
However, while traditional use is well established, direct modern scientific evidence for English Chamomile specifically (as opposed to German Chamomile, Matricaria chamomilla) in treating menstrual cramps is limited. Most clinical studies focus on German Chamomile, which has shown some promise in reducing muscle spasms and pain, but evidence for English Chamomile is largely anecdotal or extrapolated from related species. Systematic reviews and clinical trials directly assessing English Chamomile for menstrual cramps are lacking.
In summary, the use of English Chamomile for menstrual cramps is primarily justified by traditional and historical use rather than robust scientific validation. Its safety profile is generally favorable, but those seeking evidence-based treatments may wish to consider options with stronger clinical support.
Other ingredients used for Cramps (menstrual)
black currantcalcium
turmeric
elderberry
fennel
ginger
green tea
licorice root
magnesium
motherwort
parsley
peppermint oil
pomegranate
vitamin D
wild yam
zinc
tangerine
anise
queen of the meadow
Angelica
Alchemilla
Anserina
Anemone
Agnuside
Ashoka
Blue Cohosh
Bethroot
black salt
Clary sage
Cnidium
Cramp Bark
Chuchuhuasi
Cowslip
Celosia
Pennyroyal