Chamomile

Chamomile is the common name for several daisy-like flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, especially those used in herbal tea and traditional medicine.

Chamomile is the common name for several daisy-like flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, especially those used in herbal tea and traditional medicine. The best-known medicinal species are German chamomile and Roman chamomile. Chamomile has a long history of use for calming, digestive, and skin-related purposes, and it is widely used in Canada as an herbal tea and natural health product.

Botany and classification

Chamomile refers to several flowering plants in the daisy family, Asteraceae. The term is most often applied to German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla or M. recutita) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), which are the main species used medicinally and in tea.

Traditional and modern uses

Chamomile has a long history in traditional medicine and is commonly promoted for sleep, anxiety, indigestion, colds, and skin conditions. It is also used in mouthwashes, cosmetics, and some garden plantings. In Canada, it is familiar as an herbal tea and as an ingredient in natural health products.

Species and related plants

German chamomile is one of the most widely used medicinal species. Roman chamomile is another common tea and herbal species, while other plants in related genera may also be called chamomile. Both species are native to Europe and Asia.

Chemical constituents

Chamomile flowers contain volatile oils and flavonoids, including compounds often associated with anti-inflammatory and soothing effects. These constituents are used to explain its traditional role in herbal remedies.