Chamomile

The leaves, flowers and seeds of the chamomile plant are used as a type of herbal medicine and also in some cases as a flavoring for a variety of recipes. Chamomile (or camomile) belong to two different kinds of plants in the Asteraceae family- the Roman chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) and the German chamomile (Matricaria recutita). The name chamomile comes from the Latin root which means, “green crops.”

Chamomile is most readily found to be growing in temperate areas of Asia, Europe, Australia and North America. The Roman chamomile is a perennial plant that grows best in cooler temperatures while the German chamomile is an annual plant that can grow in either warm or cool temperatures. The Roman chamomile can grow to a height of 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm) while the German chamomile can grow anywhere from 6 to 24 inches in height (15 to 60 cm).

The Ancient Egyptians were very aware of the medicinal nature of chamomile and it was often made into a tea during the time of the Roman emperors to heal a variety of ailments. Besides its use in medicine, chamomile is commonly used in the making of cosmetics, perfumes, potpourri, tisane and as a rinse for blonde hair.

Chamomile has been used for centuries in Europe to ease problems in the digestive system due to its anti-inflammatory nature. Spasms and pain in the digestive tract are eased by the drinking of chamomile tea, as chamomile is soothing to the stomach lining. Chamomile also helps with a bout of butterflies in the stomach due to nerves and is a common drink given to passengers on airplanes who are afraid to fly.

In particular chamomile works effectively to treat Colic, Eczema, the healing of minor wounds and gingivitis (periodontal disease). This herb has also been shown to bring relief to those who suffer from anxiety, canker sores, Crohn’s disease, conjunctivitis and other irritations of the eye, Diarrhea, Gastritis, heartburn and indigestion, insomnia, irritable bowel syndrome, peptic ulcer and ulcerative Colitis.