Native Americans have used this and related species since their introduction to the Americas, often utilizing the entire plant. The Aleut drank teas to alleviate gas, and also considered the plant a cure-all. Drinking the tea was a Cherokee trick for "regularity." The Kutenai and Cheyenne got creative, the former making jewelry and the later, perfume, out of the pulverized dry flowers. Chamomile has magical implications for attracting money and, accordingly, as a hand rinse for gamblers needing good luck. Cosmetically, chamomile has also been used as a rinse for accentuating highlights and lightening blonde hair. Topically, this herb has an emollient and sedative effect and is softening and soothing irritated skin. It has also been used as a perfume and flavoring agent for liqueurs such as Benedictine and vermouth.According to an herbalist Matthew Becker, the type of person who responds best to chamomile is one "who complains often…for fretful children…and for adults who act like children." Chamomile soothes the liver and is a gentle yet effective sedative. The genus name Matricaria stems from the Latin word matrix meaning 'womb' hinting at its therapeutic effects in women. Chamomile is indeed a superior medicinal for women having what Rosemary Gladstar describes as "soft power" to assuage stress and tension. She suggests not only sipping chamomile tea while bathing in it, but also tucking a chamomile sachet under the pillow at night to insure a restful sleep. 

USES AND PREPARATIONS:

Flower dried as a tea, tincture, or powdered and encapsulated. Fresh plant tincture, Essential oil

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.

For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.