What to know about Matricaria chamomilla (chamomile) before using it medicinally

Matricaria chamomilla, commonly known as chamomile, is a herb with a long history of use in traditional medicine, renowned for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, which can improve health by reducing stress, promoting relaxation, and soothing digestive issues.

As an annual herb, Matricaria chamomilla is relatively easy to grow and requires full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil, and regular watering to thrive. From a botanical standpoint, the herb belongs to the Asteraceae family and has daisy-like flowers with a distinctive white and yellow coloration.

Historically, chamomile has been used by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans for its medicinal and calming properties, with the Greek physician Hippocrates being one of the first recorded users of the herb.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Matricaria chamomilla.

What are the medicinal properties of Matricaria chamomilla?

Matricaria chamomilla helps with anxiety, insomnia, and digestive issues due to its sedative, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties. It is often used as a calming tea, topical cream, or oral supplement to alleviate stress and promote relaxation. Chamomile is also used in skincare to soothe skin irritations and calm acne.

The active constituents of chamomile include flavonoids (apigenin and luteolin), sesquiterpenes (alpha-bisabolol), and terpenoids (chamazulene), which contribute to its medicinal properties. These compounds have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects that underlie chamomile's therapeutic benefits.

The parts of the plant most commonly used for medicinal purposes are the flowers and essential oil, which are rich in active constituents. Chamomile flowers can be dried, crushed, and steeped in hot water to make a tea, while the essential oil is extracted through steam distillation and used as a topical treatment.

Improper use of chamomile can lead to side effects such as allergic reactions, drowsiness, and gastrointestinal upset. Excessive consumption of chamomile tea can interact with medications, such as sedatives and antidepressants, and exacerbate conditions like asthma and epilepsy.

To use chamomile medicinally safely, it is essential to follow the recommended dosages and preparation methods. Pregnant women, children, and individuals with allergies or sensitivities should consult a healthcare professional before using chamomile products. Additionally, individuals taking medications or with underlying medical conditions should monitor their response to chamomile and adjust their use accordingly.

What are the horticulural aspects of Matricaria chamomilla?

Matricaria chamomilla grow best in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Average temperatures between 15°C and 25°C promote growth, while temperatures above 30°C can cause leaf scorch.

Chamomile prefers to be planted in a location with adequate air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. Seeds are typically sown 1-2 cm deep and 1-2 cm apart in early spring or late summer, after the last frost. Transplanting is not recommended, as this can cause root shock.

Flowers are ready for harvest when they are in full bloom and the buds are fully open. Harvesting can be done by hand, snipping the stalks at the base, or using mechanical harvesters. The yield is typically 2-4 times the amount of flowers that were planted.

Common pests affecting chamomile include aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites, which can cause damage to the leaves and flowers. Fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot are also prevalent, often caused by excessive moisture and poor air circulation.

What are the botanical aspects of Matricaria chamomilla?

Matricaria chamomilla is an annual herbaceous plant with a height of 10-30 cm, having a taproot and a few small branches, bearing lance-shaped leaves and small daisy-like flowers with white petals and a yellow center.

Matricaria chamomilla belongs to the family Asteraceae, is a member of the genus Matricaria, and has the species designation Chamomilla. It is commonly known as German chamomile or wild chamomile. The name Matricaria comes from the Latin word "matrix," meaning womb, and was given to the plant due to its alleged medicinal properties for menstrual cramps.

There are several variants of Matricaria chamomilla, including German chamomile and Roman chamomile, with the latter being a different species, Anthemis nobilis. Another variant is the Moroccan chamomile, Matricaria chamomilla var. maroccana, which is cultivated in North Africa. These variants have distinct characteristics and uses.

Matricaria chamomilla is native to Europe and Asia, but has been naturalized in many other parts of the world, including North America and Australia. It grows in dry to moist environments, preferring well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.

The life cycle of Matricaria chamomilla consists of germination, vegetative growth, flowering, and seed production. The plant germinates in spring, grows vegetatively during the summer, flowers in late summer, and produces seeds in early fall, which are dispersed by wind and animals.

What are the historical aspects of Matricaria chamomilla?

Matricaria chamomilla is an herb that has been used for centuries for medicinal and ritual purposes. In ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, chamomile was used to treat insomnia, anxiety, and digestive issues. It was also used in traditional European medicine for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

In ancient Greek mythology, chamomile was associated with the god Apollo and the goddess Artemis. The plant was said to have been used by the goddess to calm the wrath of the god. In Norse mythology, chamomile was associated with the goddess Frigga, who used it to soothe the earth.

In various cultures, chamomile has been a symbol of peace, tranquility, and calmness. In European folklore, it was believed to have the power to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. In some African cultures, chamomile is used as a symbol of fertility and prosperity.

The historical texts of chamomile date back to the 16th century, with the publication of the "Herbal" by John Gerard, which described the plant's medicinal properties. The "Pharmako-Gaea" by Dale Pendell also mentions chamomile as a plant used in ancient rituals and ceremonies.

The historical artifacts of chamomile include ancient Greek and Roman vases depicting the plant, as well as medieval illuminated manuscripts showing the plant being used in traditional medicine. The British Museum also has a collection of chamomile-based remedies from ancient Egypt, which demonstrate the plant's importance in ancient medicine.