HERB, German Chamomile

Matricaria recutita

BOTANICAL SAMPLE Seeds per packet ~ 150

Matricaria recutita, commonly known as chamomile, is a well-known medicinal plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. Native to Europe and Western Asia, it has spread to various parts of the world and is cultivated for its numerous health benefits and aromatic properties.

Chamomile typically grows to a height of 15-60 cm (6-24 inches). It has finely divided, feathery leaves and small, daisy-like flowers with white petals and yellow centers. The flowers resemble miniature daisies and are borne on long, slender stems. One of its most distinctive features is its sweet, apple-like fragrance, which is released when the flowers are crushed or bruised. This aroma is often used in aromatherapy for relaxation and stress relief.

Chamomile has a long history of use in traditional medicine and is also used in culinary applications. It is commonly brewed as a tea, known for its calming properties and mild, floral flavor. Chamomile tea is often consumed to promote relaxation, aid digestion, and relieve insomnia. Chamomile is renowned for its medicinal properties, which are attributed to its rich content of bioactive compounds such as chamazulene, apigenin, and bisabolol. It is used in herbal medicine to treat various ailments, including digestive issues (such as indigestion, bloating, and stomach cramps), anxiety, insomnia, skin irritations, and inflammation.

Chamomile has been used for centuries in traditional medicine systems, including Ayurveda and traditional European herbalism. It is valued for its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and sedative properties. Due to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, chamomile is a common ingredient in skincare products such as creams, lotions, and ointments. It is used to alleviate skin irritation, promote wound healing, and soothe conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

Chamomile can be grown in various climates and is relatively easy to cultivate. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is often grown from seeds or propagated by dividing mature plants.

Overall, Matricaria recutita, or chamomile, is a versatile and widely appreciated herb known for its therapeutic properties, pleasant aroma, and culinary uses.