Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla or Chamaemelum nobile) is one of the most cherished herbs in natural wellness. With its sweet, apple-like scent and daisy-like blossoms, chamomile has been used for generations to help calm the mind, settle the stomach, and comfort the skin.
Whether enjoyed as a warm tea or used in a soothing compress, chamomile offers a gentle, time-honored approach to everyday wellness.
Chamomile has been traditionally used to:
Support relaxation, especially in the evening or before bed
Soothe occasional digestive upset or a nervous stomach
Gently comfort the skin when used topically
Ease everyday tension and promote a sense of calm
Freshen linens and living spaces with its soft floral scent
Its mild nature and versatility make it a trusted choice for both adults and children.
Chamomile has a long history in traditional herbalism and has been used in European, Middle Eastern, and North African cultures for generations. Often sipped as a tea, it was a trusted remedy for calming the stomach and helping the body unwind after meals or at bedtime.
Folk practitioners turned to chamomile for its gentle nature, especially when supporting occasional digestive upset, restlessness, or nervous tension. It was often included in tea blends or warm compresses, and sometimes added to baths to encourage relaxation.
Its mild, pleasing scent also made it popular in homes—scattered on floors, tucked into pillows, and used to freshen air and linens.
Chamomile is a small, low-growing plant with feathery leaves and bright white petals around sunny yellow centers. There are two main types used in herbalism:
German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) – more commonly used in teas and herbal preparations
Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) – often used in essential oils and gardening
The flowers are harvested when fully open and either used fresh or dried. Most commonly, chamomile is prepared as tea, oil infusions, or water-based compresses.
Chamomile is traditionally used in:
Herbal teas (on its own or in blends for relaxation and digestion)
Warm compresses for gentle skin support
Baths for children or adults during times of restlessness
Sachets and linen sprays for a fresh, calming aroma
Infused oils for use in body care or massage
It combines well with herbs like lemon balm, lavender, or fennel for added comfort and balance.
Chamomile is generally well tolerated, but it belongs to the Asteraceae family (which includes ragweed), so those with known sensitivities may wish to use caution. Essential oils should always be diluted, and internal use during pregnancy or in infants should be done under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.