Chamomile Whole Flowers (Matricaria chamomilla)

Whole dried chamomile flowers from Matricaria chamomilla (also called German Chamomile), the most widely used calming herb in Western herbalism. The whole-flower format preserves the apple-like aroma and visual quality better than the powdered form and is the traditional preparation for tea.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Matricaria chamomilla

Family

Asteraceae (sunflower family)

Common names

Chamomile, German Chamomile, Wild Chamomile

Native region

Europe and Western Asia; widely cultivated globally

Studied compounds

Chamazulene, apigenin, bisabolol, flavonoids

Common uses

Tea, tincture, bath, compress, topical preparations

What is Chamomile?

Chamomile is a small flowering annual with daisy-like white flowers and a distinctive apple-like aroma. It has been used in European herbalism for over 2,000 years and is documented in ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian medicinal texts. The dried flowers are the medicinal part.

How to Use Chamomile

For tea: steep one to two teaspoons of whole flowers per 8 oz cup in hot (not boiling) water for 5-10 minutes, then strain. Chamomile is also used in baths (a handful of flowers in a muslin bag in warm water), as a compress for the eyes (cooled chamomile tea), and as a base for tincture preparations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chamomile used for?
Chamomile is most commonly used for calming, sleep support, and digestive comfort. It is one of the most well-documented herbal traditions in Western practice.

What's the difference between German and Roman Chamomile?
German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is annual and more widely used; Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is perennial and has a slightly different aroma profile. Most chamomile sold for tea is German.

How much chamomile for tea?
One to two teaspoons of whole flowers per 8 oz cup. Steep 5-10 minutes in hot water; longer steeping intensifies flavor and compound extraction.

Can I drink chamomile every day?
Chamomile is generally considered safe for regular daily use. Individuals with ragweed allergies may be sensitive to chamomile (both are in the Asteraceae family).

Are there interactions?
Chamomile may have mild interactions with blood-thinning medications. Consult a healthcare provider if you take warfarin or similar.

Is chamomile safe during pregnancy?
Chamomile in normal tea amounts is generally considered safe during pregnancy, though some practitioners advise caution. Consult a healthcare provider.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.