German Chamomile

Origin: Europe, Northern Africa, and Asia

Scientific Name: Matricaria chamomilla (aka M. recutita)

Folk Names: Blue chamomile, Hungarian chamomile, scented mayweed, water of youth, wild chamomile

Magical

Arguments are presented for multiple (arguably conflicting) sets of correspondences for chamomile. Some argue it should be given solar associations, due to the bright colour and scent of the flowers, while others argue that its healing qualities suggest it should be associated with water and the moon. I associate Roman chamomile more strongly with water and German chamomile with solar energy.

Element: Fire
Day: Sunday
Planet: Sun
Zodiac: Leo
Associated Celebrations: Litha, (Yule)
Deities: Apollo, Balder, Cernunnos, Hypnos, Ra, Woden

Parts used: Flowers & flowering tops

Magical Properties: Prosperity, communication, friendship, love, luck, peace, protection, purification, success, victory

Substitutions: Lavender, Roman chamomile

Lore

German Chamomile is one of the Nine Sacred Herbs of the Anglo-Saxons. It was also used as a strewing herb to combat pests and odour.

Magical Uses

Aromatherapy

Part used: Flowers
Extraction method: Steam distillation
Flash Point: 104°C

Scent type: Floral
Perfume note: Middle/base
Scent description: Herbaceous, sweet, warm

Active Constituents: α-Bisabolol oxides (20-65%)

The essential oil of German chamomile is a dark blue colour, due to the presence of chamazulene.

Aromatherapeutic Uses

Helps achieve emotional stability, dispel anger, and with the healing of skin ailments.

Warnings:

Medicinal

Note: This information is provided for informational purposes only, do not use any plants medicinally without consulting with an appropriate medical professional.

Medicinal Properties: Analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, carminative, nervine, sedative, tonic

Medicinal Uses:

Reproductive System: Chamomile tea can be used to ease digestive symptoms and nausea during pregnancy, as well as easing the pain of contractions during childbirth. It can also be used to relieve mastitis and sore nipples. Chamomile is sometimes also used to relieve menopausal symptoms.

Interactions:

Warnings:

Practical

See chamomile.

Botanical

German chamomile is one of 5+ species of Matricaria, all of which are annual herbs.

Type: Upright herb
Plant size: 15-60cm
Leaves: Long, narrow, branched leaves
Flowers: Small, white, daisy-like flowers

Etymology: Matricaria comes from the Latin matrix, which can mean ‘womb’, due to its use in treating gynecologic complaints such as menstrual cramps.

In the Garden

Type: Annual
Sow: Spring
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Low
Soil: Well-drained

Companion Planting: German chamomile particularly enjoys the company of lavender, rosemary, and hyssop.

Tips: