A testament to nature’s kindness towards us is chamomile, found everywhere around us and a remedy for many ailments. It is widespread across almost all continents. Chamomile, also known as camomile or mayweed, is one of the most well-known plants and is present in nearly every household. There isn’t a person who hasn’t used it at least once.
Chamomile originates from ancient Egypt, where it was mentioned as one of the sacred plants dedicated to the Sun. Thousands of years ago, people in ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt used chamomile flowers as a remedy for insomnia and premenstrual pain. It is one of the oldest medicinal plants and has universal use in traditional medicine and science. It is most commonly consumed as tea but is also used in the form of oils and tinctures. Two main types of chamomile are used: German chamomile (Matricaria chamomile) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile). The name derives from the Greek words chamos, meaning ground, and mile, meaning apple—likely because it grows low to the ground and has a scent reminiscent of apples.
Chamomile blooms two to three times a year and does not require a specific type of soil. It has branched stems with pinnately divided leaves. It grows to a height of 15–60 centimeters. At the top of the stem is a flower with a central yellow disc surrounded by a ring of white petals. The flowering period lasts about 50–60 days per year, and the development of the flowers takes about 20–25 days.
The most medicinal part of chamomile is its flowers, which are used to treat various diseases and have antiseptic properties against inflammations. Over 120 chemical compounds have been identified in chamomile flowers, most of them being essential oils. In traditional medicine, it is considered a cure-all. Chamomile has antiseptic properties and is used for inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, respiratory tract, digestive organs, and urogenital tract. It promotes wound healing, soothes eczema, and is effective for conjunctivitis, ear infections, and even toothaches. Chamomile tea alleviates nervousness, irritability, insomnia, and anxiety. It is also used as a bath by people who sweat excessively. Moreover, it has antiseptic properties, reduces cholesterol levels in the blood, and has anticoagulant effects.
Through the distillation of its flowers, a precious essential oil is obtained, characterized by its blue color, to which it owes its medicinal properties. Chamomile extract is an important ingredient in hand creams and, in ancient Egypt, was even used for embalming the bodies of deceased pharaohs. It is also used in the production of certain types of beer, where not only the flowers but the entire plant is utilized.
However, one must be cautious when using this medicinal plant. Chamomile can cause allergic reactions and contact dermatitis. For this reason, pregnant or breastfeeding women are advised not to use it.
Finally, it’s worth mentioning that chamomile is the national flower of Russia, as Russians, like the English, know the value of a good, medicinal tea with a pleasant taste.
Written by: Prof. Dr. Maja Jordanova
