CHAMOMILE  

Chamomile is part of the Asteraceae plant family, which includes ragweed and chrysanthemum, so people with allergies may react when they use chamomile either internally or topically. Call your doctor if you experience vomiting, skin irritation, allergic reactions (chest tightness, wheezing, hives, rash, itching) after chamomile use.

Chamomile should not be taken during pregnancy or breast-feeding. Chamomile contains coumarin, a naturally-occurring compound with anticoagulant or blood-thinning effects. It should not be combined with warfarin or other medications or supplements that have the same effect or be used by people with bleeding disorders. It shouldn't be used two weeks before or after surgery.

The ancient Egyptians were one of the most ancient civilizations to use chamomile. They produced it for its virtues. They dedicated the plant to the sun and their gods because of its extensive healing properties.

There are a number of species of Chamomile spread over Europe, North Africa and the temperate region of Asia. Thus it has several names according to its habitat and species.Its Common name includes Camomile, Sweet chamomile, Wild Chamomile, German Chamomile, Mayweed. In Arabic it is called babonig. Its Botanical name also depends on the type of species:

The most common to many is Matricaria recutita. This is the botanical name of the common Chamomile. It is a low growing plant,creeping or trailing, its tufts of leaves and flowers a foot high. The root is perennial, jointed and fibrous, the stems, hairy and freely branching, are covered with leaves which are divided into thread-like segments, the fineness of which gives the whole plant a feathery appearance. There are some eighteen white rays arranged round a conical centre, botanically known as the receptacle, on which the yellow, tubular florets are placed- the centre of the daisy is, however, considerably flatter than that of the Chamomile. The whole plant is downy and greyish green in colour. It prefers dry commons and sandy soil, Parts used are the flowers and herb. The active principles are a volatile oil ( of a pale blue colour), anthemic acid(the bitter taste) , tannic acid and a glucoside. It is administered as decoction, infusion, fluid extract and essential oils. Chamomile has a mild, apple-like fragrance. The dried flowers of A. nobilis are used for blond dyeing, and a variety of Chamomile known as Lemon Chamomile yields a very fine essential oil.