Roman Chamomile

COMMON NAME Standardized: Roman chamomile Other: Chamomile, mayweed, true chamomile BOTANICAL NAME Chamaemelum nobile Plant Family: Asteraceae PARTS USED Roman Chamomile Flowers OVERVIEW Roman Chamomile is a gentle herb known throughout most of the world which has been used continually for many centuries. It is often ingested as a tea to calm the nervous system and the digestive tract, and is mild enough to be administered to babies with colic. Chamomile is soothing to irritated skin and membranes, and is often found in lotions and hair products. Other studies illuminate this plant's potential to assist in healing wounds and soothing gastrointestinal conditions. BOTANY Members of the Asteraceae family, these aromatic herbaceous plants have white daisy like flowers and scent reminiscent of apples or pineapple. In fact, the common name "chamomile" is derived from the Greek word kamai which translates to "on the ground" and melon which means apple. Accordingly, the Spanish name Manzanilla, means "little apple." C. nobile is a perennial low growing ground cover. Growing no more than 10 inches high. FLAVOR NOTES Flavor: Slightly bitter, sweet, aromatic. USES AND PREPARATIONS Roman Chamomile Flower as a tea, tincture, or powdered and encapsulated. Essential oil. Roman Chamomile can be also used as ingredients in soaps and bath bombs, etc CONSTITUENTS The flower contains 0.24%–1.9% bright blue volatile oil 28 terpenoids and 36 flavanoids. Flavone derivatives include apigenen, quercetin, patuletin as glucosides, and sesquiterpenes including alpha-bisabolol and its oxide azulenes such as matricin (which is converted to chamazulene). PRECAUTIONS Specific: Persons with allergies to other members of the Asteraceae family should exercise caution with chamomile. The infusion should not be used near the eyes. General: We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.