Type of plant: Small plant with feathery leaves and small white daisy-like flowers
Part used: Flowers and stems
Method of extraction: Steam distillation
Data: For at least 2,000 years chamomile has been used extensively as a medicine. The botanical name derives from the Greek anthemis, meaning “little flower.” One variety of anthemis has been found at ancient Egyptian sites dating from the predynastic period. In early Scandinavian culture, chamomile was associated with the sun god, and chamomile appeared in all the European herbals.
Principal places of production: France, England, Bulgaria, Hungary, Chile
When buying look for: A pale-blue to slightly blue-green tinged liquid with a fruity, sweet, fresh, herby apple-like aroma
Therapeutic properties: Analgesic, antibacterial, anti-infectious, anti- inflammatory, antineuralgic, antispasmodic, calmative, cicatrizing, immunostimulant, nervine, sedative, vulnerary
Therapeutic uses: Muscular spasm and contractions, rheumatism, menstrual cramp, rashes, acne, eczema, psoriasis, skin irritation, inflammatory skin infection, sunburn, dental and teething problems, insect bites and stings, insomnia, anxiety, nervousness, depression, stress-related conditions
Blends well with: Bergamot, cedarwood atlas, chamomile german, clary sage, cypress, eucalyptus lemon, eucalyptus radiata, fennel (sweet), frankincense, geranium, grapefruit, immortelle, juniper berry, lavender, lemon, mandarin, marjoram (sweet), melissa, neroli, nutmeg, orange (sweet), palmarosa, ravintsara, rosemary, rose otto, sandalwood, spikenard, valerian, vetiver
Precautionary advice: No contraindications known. GRAS status.
