Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is a plant of the Asteraceae families. It grows in the middle of the fields and can often be found together with Anthemis arvensis the so-called "fake Camomile" which does not have the properties and taste of the original.
Chamomile flowers are used together in flower heads that are cut before flowering.
The name derives from the Greek chamàimēlon word formed by chamài "of the soil" and mēlon, "apple" for the smell that resembles that of dwarf apple; this derivation is preserved in the Spanish name "manzanilla", from manzana, which means "apple ". The name of the genus, Matricaria, comes from the Latin matrix, which means" uterus ", with reference to the calming power in menstrual pain .
ACTIVE PRINCIPLES
It contains many active ingredients including essential oil with a typical blue color donated by chamazulene, flavonoids with a percentage from 1 to 3%, phenolic acids, coumarins and polysaccharides that form the phytocomplex.
This combination of active ingredients has a muscle relaxant effect. Useful both in case of intestinal disorders and in case of spasms and menstrual pains. It has relaxing properties in case of stress and nervous tension, giving a pleasant feeling of relaxation .
INFUSION
According to a worldwide estimate, about one million cups are consumed per day. To prepare it, you need to infuse the chamomile heads for 3 minutes. It is able to improve digestion and the functioning of the gastrointestinal system. In addition, it has been used for centuries to promote relaxation and promote sleep and mental well-being. Like Mallow it can also be used for external use for a soothing and calming action in case of irritation.
THE ROMAN CHAMOMILE
Roman chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) peeps very differently from matricaria chamomile which makes it easily recognizable. Roman chamomile is generally grown for its precious essential oil. It has aperitif and digestive properties. Traditional medicine uses Roman chamomile as an external remedy in case of inflammation of the oral cavity and throat, toothache, earache, headache and rhinitis.
