Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

Botanical Identification

• Common Name: Chamomile
• Latin Name: Matricaria chamomilla
• Plant Family: Asteraceae
• Parts Used: Flowers

Energetics & Taste

• Taste: Sweet, floral, mildly bitter
• Energetics: Cooling, relaxing

Clinical Actions & Affinities

• Primary Actions: Relaxing nervine, Mild bitter, Antispasmodic
• Target Body Systems: Digestive System, Nervous System
• Indications: A brilliant multi-tasker for the gut. It acts as a mild bitter to gently stimulate digestive juices for a sluggish system, while its nervine properties physically calm the tension in the intestinal walls to soothe a “nervous stomach”.

Preparation & Clinical Dosage

• Best Extractions: Hot water infusion (tea), Glycerite, or warm-infused honey.
• Standard Dosage: 1 to 2 tsp dried flowers per cup of hot water (steeped covered to retain volatile oils).

Safety & Contraindications

• Precautions: Individuals with severe allergies to the Asteraceae/Daisy family should use caution.
• Contraindications: None widely noted.
• Known Interactions: None widely noted; always consult a physician regarding medication interactions.