Chamomile (Matricaria recutita or Chamomilla recutita)

A gentle tea, well tolerated even by infants, effectively relieves cramps. Used externally, it accelerates wound healing, treats skin conditions, and eases hay fever rash.

German chamomile (Matricaria recutita or Chamomilla recutita) has been valued for centuries as a medicinal herb, most often for easing digestive discomfort. It is also a mild sedative that soothes the nervous system. Chamomile essential oil has an anti inflammatory effect on mucous membranes, so inhaling chamomile steam calms inflamed sinuses and helps with asthma.

In 1979, German researchers discovered that bisabolol, a key constituent of chamomile, has anti inflammatory properties. In 1983, a French study demonstrated chamomile’s antiviral effects against polio and herpes. Because it relieves spasms, chamomile is a suitable remedy for stomach aches, painful menstruation, and biliary and intestinal colic. Even infants tolerate it well.

It also reduces bloating and flatulence. Used externally, chamomile creams and oils soothe skin inflammation and promote healing.

They are recommended for treating eczema, irritation of infants’ skin caused by diaper chafing, and cracked nipples during breastfeeding.

Chamomile gently promotes bowel movements without being too strong, which in turn supports the internal healing of hemorrhoids. Externally, hemorrhoids can be treated with chamomile ointment. Chamomile promotes wound healing, counteracts the effects of bacterial toxins, and supports skin metabolism.

It is used for eye rinses and as an antiseptic mouthwash. Chamomile is also widely used in cosmetics. Steaming the face with chamomile is excellent for sensitive skin, and rinsing blonde hair with chamomile tea imparts a distinctive shine.

Chamomile oil was already used in antiquity to massage areas affected by neuralgia and shooting pains in the limbs. The ancient Egyptians, recognizing its ability to reduce fever, considered chamomile the flower of the Sun god.

Old herbals note that chamomile oil relieves fatigue in the limbs, and chamomile compresses placed on an inflamed bladder ease pain. Here, chamomile grows in fields and on waste ground, along roads and railway lines, and is especially abundant in grain fields. It has been cultivated since ancient times.

If you wish to grow chamomile in your garden, sow the seed in spring in well drained, neutral to slightly acidic soil in a sunny position. Whether wild or cultivated, chamomile is harvested at full bloom, from late April throughout the summer.

Like other medicinal herbs, it should be dried in a dark place at temperatures not exceeding 45 degrees Celsius.

Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) holds a similar status in Western Europe, especially in France, England, and Belgium, as German chamomile does here and in German speaking countries. The fact that in Western Europe the term "chamomile" often refers to a different plant has frequently caused confusion. Fortunately, the effects of both plants are very similar.

In English and French literature, German chamomile is listed under the name "German chamomile".

Warning!

Prolonged use of excessive amounts of chamomile may cause nervousness and dizziness. If you are taking anticoagulant medication, consult your physician before using chamomile preparations.