Chamomile is a gentle herb known throughout most of the world. For centuries, chamomile has been ingested as a tea by all ages for its mild actions in calming the spirit and supporting the digestive tract. Known in commerce as Matricaria recutita, and by its synonym M. chamomilla, the plant goes by many common names including German chamomile, Hungarian chamomile, mayweed, sweet false chamomile, and true chamomile.
A member of the Asteraceae family, chamomile has long, narrow, feathery leaves and small, white, daisy like flowers with an aromatic fragrance that is reminiscent of apples. In fact, the translation of chamomile from ancient Greek means “ground apple”. Accordingly, its Spanish name manzanilla, means "little apple." Native to southern and eastern Europe, M. recutita is an herbaceous annual which grows up to 24 inches.
For hundreds of years, chamomile has been utilized globally for its beneficial properties. In traditional European herbalism, chamomile was used as a tonic herb and to support digestive health. In the Mexican folkloric tradition, manzanilla was employed in support of maintaining healthy respiratory function, digestive function, and to uplift the mood. Native Americans have also used chamomile in their traditional healing systems in regard to minor digestive complaints and as a tonic herb. Some indigenous tribes would even use the sweet, small flowers to make jewelry and perfume. Chamomile promotes relaxation and supports digestive health.*
Folklorically, chamomile was thought to attract money and was therefore used as a hand rinse for gamblers needing good luck. The beloved blossoms were employed in ancient Egypt as an offering to their gods. Renowned herbalist, Rosemary Gladstar, describes chamomile as "soft power" which she uses to assuage occasional stress and tension. Gladstar suggests not only sipping chamomile tea while bathing in it, but also tucking a chamomile sachet under the pillow at night to promote restful sleep.
German chamomile is most often prepared as an infusion of chamomile tea, and the flowers are widely used in hair and skin care recipes. Chamomile is emollient and is often found in lotions and cosmetic products. Chamomile flowers have even been utilized as a flavoring agent in liqueurs such as Benedictine and vermouth. Other common preparations of chamomile include extraction, potpourri, gargles, and more.
Our chamomile extract is made in small batches from fresh, organic chamomile flowers. The extract is mild in flavor with a slight floral and fruity taste. It can be taken directly in the mouth or added to water, sparkling water, or juice. The gentle herb is often added to a range of botanical formulations and can be blended with other extracts such as fennel extract, lemon balm extract, and oats extract. Chamomile tincture can also be added to herbal infusions for an extra botanical boost such as easy day tea, fidnemed nighttime tea, and happy tummy tea.
Ingredients
Organic alcohol, water, and fresh organic chamomile flower.
Packaging & Shipping
• 1 oz., 2 oz., and 4 oz. extracts come in amber glass bottles with a dropper.
• 8 oz. and 16 oz. sizes come in amber glass bottles with a plastic screw cap and do not include a dropper.
• 32 oz. extracts come in plastic bottles with a plastic screw cap.
Precautions
Persons with allergies to other members of the Asteraceae family should exercise caution with chamomile. The infusion should not be used near the eyes. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only.
