Camomile root

What is chamomile root?

Chamomile root is the dried root of chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), a plant from the Asteraceae family. Chamomile is best known for its flowers, which can be used to make a tasty and healing tea. However, the root is used less frequently, although it also contains many valuable ingredients.

Chamomile root is rich in essential oils, flavonoids, coumarins and bitter substances. These substances have anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antibacterial, antiviral, analgesic and soothing effects. Chamomile root can be used both internally and externally and is well tolerated by dogs.

What are the benefits of chamomile root for dogs?

Chamomile root can help your dog with various ailments. Here are some examples:

• Gastrointestinal problems: If your dog is suffering from nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or flatulence, chamomile root can calm digestion and relieve cramping. It also has antibacterial and antiviral properties and can therefore fight infections.
• Skin problems: If your dog suffers from skin irritations, itching, eczema or wounds, chamomile root can reduce inflammation and promote healing. It also has an antibacterial and antiviral effect and can therefore prevent infections.
• Gum problems: If your dog suffers from gingivitis or tartar, chamomile root can strengthen the gums and reduce bacteria. It also has a pain-relieving and calming effect.
• Anxiety and stress: If your dog suffers from anxiety or stress, for example during thunderstorms, car journeys or visits to the vet, camomile root can relax and calm him. It also has a mood-lifting and antidepressant effect.

How is chamomile root used on dogs?

Chamomile root can be used on dogs in various ways. Here are some possibilities:

• As a tea: You can make a tea from chamomile root by pouring 250 ml of boiling water over a teaspoon of the dried root and leaving to infuse for 10 minutes. You can offer the cooled tea to your dog to drink or mix it into their food. The recommended dosage is 1 ml per kilogram of body weight per day.
• As a tincture: You can make a tincture from chamomile root by covering 100 g of the dried root with 500 ml of alcohol (40%) in a glass jar and leaving to infuse for two weeks in a dark place. You can give the filtered tincture to your dog orally or apply it to the skin. The recommended dosage is 0.5 ml per kilogram of body weight per day.
• As an ointment: You can make an ointment from chamomile root by boiling 50 g of the dried root with 250 ml of water and simmering for 15 minutes. Melt the cooled brew with 50 g beeswax and 50 ml vegetable oil in a bain-marie and stir. You can store the finished ointment in a glass jar and apply to the skin as required.

What are the disadvantages of chamomile root for dogs?

Camomile root is generally well tolerated by dogs and has few side effects. However, there are a few points you should be aware of:

• Allergies: some dogs can have an allergic reaction to chamomile root, especially if it belongs to the composite family. Therefore, watch out for possible symptoms such as skin rash, itching, swelling or shortness of breath and discontinue use immediately if you notice them.
• Interactions: Camomile root can strengthen or weaken the effect of some medications, for example blood thinners, antidiabetics or tranquilizers. If your dog is taking such medication, you should speak to your vet before using chamomile root.
• Overdose: Camomile root can lead to side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea or drowsiness if the dosage is too high or used for too long. Therefore, stick to the recommended dosages and duration of use and monitor your dog for possible signs of overdose.