chamomile

I am chamomile, and I bring you peace – one of the best-known and most versatile medicinal plants. German chamomile (Chamomilla recutita, formerly Matricaria chamomilla) owes its name to the Latin word matrix (uterus) and was traditionally used especially for women's ailments and during the postpartum period. In Switzerland, it is therefore also known as "Mueterchrut" (motherwort).

In the kitchen, the blossoms can be added to salads or used to decorate desserts. They are also a delicious and healthy addition to herbal lemonades.

A characteristic feature of German chamomile is its hollow, cone-shaped receptacle – an important distinguishing characteristic from similar species. The leaves also differ. Roman chamomile has more coarsely divided, bipinnate leaves, while those of German chamomile are finer and thread-like. Its intense, apple-like fragrance is also characteristic. Due to its more compact growth, it is often cultivated as ground cover in gardens, as it is less invasive than its relative.

In Victorian flower lore, Roman chamomile symbolized the qualities of "patience" and "you help me." At that time, it served as a subtle, nonverbal message of gratitude and support in bouquets and arrangements.

Traditional uses: In folk medicine, chamomile flowers are a true all-rounder: They were used internally for stomach cramps or inflammatory gastrointestinal diseases, externally as a steam inhalation for colds, as a compress, rinse, or bath for slow-healing wounds, and as a sitz bath after childbirth. Among other things, it helps as a tea or tincture for colds and is used for gastrointestinal problems and bladder issues. Its diuretic effect alleviates rheumatic diseases and gout. It is also said to help with gynecological problems, nervous restlessness, and insomnia. Its anti-inflammatory properties are also used in cosmetics.

From a modern medical perspective: The dried flower heads are used. They contain various active ingredients: mucilage, flavonoids, plant acids, coumarins, and the essential oil with the blue compound chamazulene. This gives them a very broad spectrum of effects; they are anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, promote wound healing, and are antibacterial. Practical tip: Chamomile flowers should be purchased from a pharmacy or specialist retailer. The tea is a true all-rounder; try it for sleep disorders or nervous complaints.

Important:

Do not use if you are allergic to chamomile or other members of the daisy family, such as arnica or mugwort. Chamomile tea should not be used as an eyewash, as it can cause irritation.

Furthermore, it should not be taken in high doses for extended periods.

Do not take or use if you have a chamomile allergy or allergies to, for example, arnica or mugwort! Do not rinse your eyes with chamomile tea – it irritates the eyes! Chamomile can trigger symptoms in people with allergies to plants in the daisy family (Asteraceae), and it should not be taken in high doses over a long period.