The sweet fragrance of chamomile flowers made into tea is so well-known for its gentle and soothing effects that one might be surprised to know that this herb has a multitude of beneficial medicinal properties. The name "chamomile" is used to refer to several genus and species, each with cheerful white and yellow blooms that can be found worldwide. These flowers attract pollinators and have even been found to be helpful to other plants growing nearby. German chamomile,
Matricaria recutita
, and Roman chamomile,
Chamaemelum nobile
, have been used as medicine since ancient times.
The International Herb Association is celebrating its 30
th
year of the
Herb of the
Year
with
Chamomile
. Contributions from herbal experts include botany and natural history, chamomile in poetry and literature, recipes for health and beauty, and how to go beyond simple chamomile tea to create wonderful bitters, herbal formulations, beverages and desserts!