German Chamomile
Matricaria recutita
family:Asteraceae
the plant: Low-growing apple-scented herb with many small yellow & white flower heads and lacy, finely divided leaves. Native to Europe and Western Asia, now cultivated at a large commercial scale esp. in Eastern Europe, Egypt & Argentina.
parts used: flowers, essential oil of flowers.
medicinal actions: nervine, antispasmodic, carminative, anti-inflammatory, febrifuge, emmenagogue, analgesic, antimicrobial, bitter, vulnerary
indications: Offers gentle & powerful relaxation from anxiety, digestive relief, and inflammation help. best known as a 'sleepy' tea, it also eases gas cramps, constipation, indigestion and general muscle cramps. topically it heals and soothes inflammation, infection, rashes, itches, & wounds. a cooling bitter that is not drying, it can help headcolds, fevers, and bringing delayed menses. a safe children's remedy for fever, teething, or rashes*.
contraindications: Those with asteraceae allergies use caution. its bitterness may upset an empty stomach.
*Undiluted essential oil is not safe for children & can irritate adults.
preparation: Tea infusion in water, brewed 15 min+; glycerite; infused oil or tea topically; essential oil.
note: This information is not a replacement for a trained herbalist. Please consult
a medical
professional before treating yourself or others with this or other herbal remedy.