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Chamomile Facts

Chamomile Facts
Chamomile is herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. This plant originates from Europe, Asia and North Africa, but it can be found throughout the world today. Out of large number of chamomile species, humans cultivate and use only two species: Roman and German chamomile. These two types of chamomile differ in size, type of flower and leaves and in the type and amount of compounds that can be extracted from the plant. Ancient Egyptians discovered healing potentials of chamomile. This plant has been used in medical purposes ever since. Other than that, chamomile is often used in the industry of perfumes and in the aromatherapy due to its beautiful odor.
Interesting Chamomile Facts:
Chamomile grows in the form of small shrub that usually reaches 8 to 12 inches in height. German chamomile grows to the height of 3 feet.
Chamomile has green, feathery leaves that are alternately arranged on the stem.
Flower consists of large number of individual flowers called florets. Outer part of the flower consists of 18 white ray florets. Yellow disk, located in the center of the flower, consists of miniature florets that have tubular shape.
Chamomile blooms from June to July. Flies are main pollinator of chamomile flowers.
Name “chamomile” originates from Greek words “chamos”, which means “ground” and “milos” which means “apple”. Chamomile is named that way because it grows close to the ground and smells like apple.
Chamomile was used for the process of mummification in the ancient Egypt.
Chemical compounds and oils that are used in medical and cosmetic industry are extracted from the flower.
Even though beneficial effects of chamomile are not scientifically proven, chamomile is used in treatment of more than 100 different disorders.
Chamomile can be used in the form of tea, tincture, lotion, capsules or various drops.
Chamomile possesses anti-inflammatory properties, can be used for disinfection and to relieve the pain. It is mainly used for the treatment of urinary and ocular infections, skin rash, toothache, respiratory pain, premenstrual pain, migraine, insomnia, anxiety…
Chamomile can induce side effects when it is consumed in combination with other medications. Also, chamomile may induce premature birth because it stimulates contraction of the uterus.
People that are allergic to ragweed will probably exhibit allergy to the chamomile. Allergy can be triggered after application of cream containing chamomile or after consumption of tea.
Homemade chamomile tea can be used for lighting of the blond hair.
Besides its decorative morphology, chamomile can be very useful in the garden. It facilitates growth of the surrounding plants and even heals nearby sick plants.
Lifespan of chamomile depends on the species. Roman chamomile is annual plant which lives only one year. German chamomile is perennial plant that lives more than two years.


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