Chamomile Flowers, Whole (Matricaria chamomilla) – Dried Herb, Organic

German Chamomile a member of the Asteraceae family is an aromatic plant that has white daisy like flowers and scent reminiscent of apples or pineapple. In fact, the common name “Chamomile” is derived from the Greek word Kamai, which translates to “on the ground” and melon which means apple. Accordingly, the Spanish name Manzanilla, means “little apple”.

German Chamomile is native to Europe, North Africa, and some parts of Asia. It’s been used since ancient times. Both the Egyptians and the ancient Romans used Chamomile in tea, salves, creams, incenses and other beverages. Chamomile’s earliest recorded use goes back to the Eber’s Papyrus, dated to 1550 BC. Ancient Egyptians used the herb to honour the gods, embalm the dead and cure the sick. In Europe, medicinal use of Chamomile has been recorded since the 1st century AD, utilized extensively for digestive health.

Germans refer to this herb as “alles zutraut” meaning ‘capable of anything’. In the Mexican folkloric tradition, manzanilla was used to support healthy respiratory function and for soothing the stomach and easing digestion. In the highlands of southern Mexico, the Tzeltal Maya make a Chamomile tea containing an Orange and a Lime Leaf to lift the mood. Indigenous people in North American have used this and related species since their introduction to the area, often utilizing the entire plant. Chamomile is a gentle herb known throughout most of the world which has been used continually for many centuries. It is often ingested as a tea for calming purposes and is mild enough to be administered to babies.

Cosmetically, Chamomile has also been used as a rinse for accentuating highlights and lightening blonde hair. Topically, this herb has an emollient effect and is softening and soothing to the skin. It has also been used as a perfume and flavouring agent for liqueurs such as Benedictine and Vermouth.

Properties:

Energetics and taste of Chamomile are slightly bitter, pungent, sweet, aromatic, cooling and drying. Chamomile has an affinity towards liver, gallbladder, digestive system, nervous system, respiratory system and musculoskeletal system. For nervous system support combine with Lavender, California Poppy or Skullcap. For the digestive system combine with Meadowsweet, Marshmallow Root or Lemon Balm.

How to use:

1 teaspoon of Chamomile Flowers to one cup of boiling water. Simmer for 15 minutes, strain and drink up to three cups a day.

May also infuse into a carrier oil or water and use topically on the skin, as an inhalation, sitz bath, gargle or compress.

Contraindications

Persons with allergies to other members of the Asteraceae family should exercise caution with chamomile.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or illness. Please consult your healthcare provider prior to the use of this product if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications or have a medical condition. Individual results may vary.