Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) Asteraceae
đŒ CHAMOMILE (GERMAN) â German Chamomile
Common name: German chamomile.
Latin name: Matricaria chamomilla.
Botanical family: Asteraceae.
CsalĂĄd (HU): FĂ©szkesvirĂĄgzatĂșak (Asteraceae).
đ± Botanical description
German chamomile is an annual herbaceous plant usually growing between 20 and 50 cm in height. The stems are slender, erect and highly branched, smooth and hairless. The leaves are alternate and finely divided into narrow, thread-like segments that give the plant its characteristic feathery appearance. The flowers form small capitula composed of white ligulate ray florets surrounding a prominent yellow conical centre. One of the key identifying features of this species is the hollow floral receptacle, which distinguishes it from Roman chamomile. The plant releases a strong, characteristic aromatic scent. Flowering occurs from late spring into summer. The fruits are small achenes without pappus.
đ Origin and habitat
German chamomile is native to Southern and Eastern Europe and Western Asia but is now widely naturalised across Europe and many temperate regions. It commonly grows in disturbed soils, agricultural fields, roadsides and cultivated areas. The plant thrives in full sun and prefers light, well-drained soils.
đ§Ș Main chemical constituents (flower heads)
The flower heads contain an essential oil rich in α-bisabolol and bisabolol oxides, as well as chamazulene which is formed from matricin during distillation. They also contain flavonoids such as apigenin, luteolin and quercetin, together with coumarins, mucilages, phenolic acids and sesquiterpene lactones.
đ Therapeutic properties
German chamomile is widely recognised for its strong anti-inflammatory activity. It has antispasmodic effects on smooth muscles and supports digestive comfort through carminative action. The plant also shows mild sedative and anxiolytic properties, helping to calm the nervous system. Additional actions include antiallergic, antimicrobial and antiseptic effects. Chamomile is particularly valued for its soothing and protective action on the skin and mucous membranes.
𧎠External uses
Chamomile preparations are traditionally applied to irritated, inflamed or itchy skin. They are commonly used for eczema, dermatitis and allergic skin reactions. Infusion compresses can soothe tired or irritated eyes, while mouth rinses help calm oral and gum inflammation. Chamomile is also used for minor wounds and burns, delicate baby skin care and post-sun exposure. In cosmetic and herbal preparations it appears in forms such as infusion compresses, hydrosols, infused oils, creams and balms.
â Internal uses
Taken internally, chamomile is widely used for digestive cramps, bloating and flatulence. It may help soothe gastritis and functional digestive discomfort. The plant is also valued for easing nervous tension, stress and mild sleep disturbances. During colds or inflammatory conditions it can provide gentle supportive care. Preparations include infusions, tinctures and glycerites. Chamomile is often considered one of the safest medicinal plants and is commonly used for children and elderly people at appropriate doses.
đ§Ș Preparations
The most common preparation is an infusion made from one teaspoon of dried flower heads per cup of hot water, infused for five to ten minutes. This infusion may be used both internally and externally. Chamomile hydrosol provides a very gentle anti-inflammatory and soothing preparation suitable for sensitive skin and eye care. Infused oil is prepared by macerating dried flowers in a neutral oil and is widely used for topical preparations. The essential oil, obtained by steam distillation, is highly concentrated and therefore used only in very small, carefully diluted amounts.
đ§ Symbolic and traditional aspects
Chamomile has long been associated with calmness, softness and reassurance. In traditional herbal medicine it was often described as a plant that âbrings order to chaos,â soothing both body and mind. Because of its reliability and gentleness, chamomile has historically been one of the first plants used in family herbal medicine.
â ïž Precautions
Some individuals sensitive to plants from the Asteraceae family may experience allergic reactions. Chamomile essential oil should always be used with caution and properly diluted. When used as a simple infusion, the plant is generally considered safe during pregnancy and suitable for children.
đŒ Summary
Matricaria chamomilla is one of the most versatile medicinal plants in Western herbal tradition. It is particularly effective for digestive, nervous and inflammatory conditions. Gentle yet powerful, chamomile remains a cornerstone plant in both traditional and modern herbal practice, valued for its reliability and deeply soothing nature.