Chamomile
Matricaria chamomilla
Description
overall appearance
Annual herb growing 8-24 inches tall with feathery, finely divided leaves and distinctive small daisy-like flowers with sweet apple-like fragrance.
roots
Shallow fibrous root system, small taproot with numerous fine rootlets spreading near soil surface.
stem
Erect, branching stems that are smooth, hollow, and light green, growing 8-24 inches tall with multiple flower heads.
leaves
Alternate, bipinnately divided into linear segments, giving a feathery appearance; leaves are 1-2 inches long, bright green, and aromatic when crushed.
flowers
Small composite flower heads 0.5-1 inch across with 10-20 white ray petals surrounding a prominent yellow disc; petals bend downward as flowers mature; blooms May through September.
fruits/seeds
Small, light brown achenes without pappus, about 1mm long; seeds are tiny and numerous.
Active Compounds
Traditional Uses
- European folk medicine for digestive disorders, insomnia, anxiety
- Children's remedy for colic, teething pain, restlessness
- Wound healing and skin inflammation treatment
- Eye infections and conjunctivitis (eyewash)
- Menstrual disorders and women's health
- Respiratory conditions and allergies
Modern Applications
- Anxiety and stress reduction
- Sleep disorders and insomnia
- Digestive health and gastritis relief
- Anti-inflammatory for skin conditions
- Wound healing and tissue repair
- Antimicrobial and antifungal effects
- Mild sedative and calming effects
⚠️ Safety Information
Contraindications
- Known allergy to plants in Asteraceae family (ragweed, chrysanthemums)
- Pregnancy (large amounts may stimulate uterus)
- Bleeding disorders (theoretical concern)
Side Effects
- Allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
- Rare contact dermatitis with topical use
- Drowsiness with large amounts
- Possible drug interactions with sedatives
Drug Interactions
- Blood-thinning medications (theoretical interaction)
- Sedative medications (may enhance effects)
- Immunosuppressive drugs (may stimulate immune system)
Parts Used
- Flower heads (dried)
- Occasionally whole aerial parts
- Essential oil distilled from flowers
Preparation Methods
1-2 teaspoons dried flowers per cup boiling water, steep 5-10 minutes
Rarely used for chamomile
1:5 ratio in 40% alcohol, 2-4 ml three times daily
Fresh or reconstituted dried flowers for skin applications
Flowers infused in olive oil for topical use
Related Plants
Arnica
Arnica montana
Blessed Thistle
Cnicus benedictus
Burdock
Arctium lappa
Lavender
Lavandula angustifolia
St. John's Wort
Hypericum perforatum
Basil
Ocimum basilicum