Botanicals of the Month: April

Plant of the Month: Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis or Chamaemelum nobile), German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

doTERRA Essential Oil of the Month: Roman Chamomile

Rishi Tea of the Month: Golden Chamomile Blossoms

The healing herb for April is one of my all-time favorites for stress relief: chamomile.  You will always find chamomile in my tea cupboard.  Whenever I’m feeling anxious or stressed, that’s what I reach for. Apparently, I’m not the only one either. The Herbal Research Foundation estimates that over 1 million cups of chamomile are consumed worldwide every day! In the language of flowers, chamomile can symbolize renewal and carries with it both the meanings “patience” and “energy in adversity.” I can see why. Chamomile is known to have a quieting, calming effect on an anxious mind and body. After a cup of soothing chamomile tea, I always feel better. My energy feels renewed and my reserves of patience restored. It’s truly one of nature’s golden cups of comfort.

Medicinal Value

Medicinally, this plant is quite a healer, known for its anti-allergenic, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmatic and analgesic benefits. It’s been used to relieve indigestion and menstrual cramps, ease teething and colic in babies, and is added to salves for soothing skin irritations. The essential oil, also known for its calming effects, is often diffused for relaxation. It can also be inhaled for allergy relief. While I was researching this plant, I found one claim that diffusing the oil “calms noisy children and angry partners.” That’s enough to increase anyone’s patience immediately. 

Symbolism of the Plant

The chamomile flowers resemble miniature daisies. The flower is where the plant houses most of its beneficial compounds. The dried flowers are what the tea is made from. Both the German and Roman varieties are used to make chamomile tea. The fragrance of the small daisy-like flowers is very similar to that of apple blossoms, hence the root words in the name chamomile translate to “earth apple,” or “ground apple.” When you walk on the flower, the essential oil sacs in the flower releases their apple-like fragrance into the air. Then, true to its meaning, as a symbol of resilience and renewal, chamomile is known for its ability to pop back up readily after being stepped on. Its flowers will bloom continuously until frost.

History of Chamomile

This plant has quite a bit of folklore associated with it. In South America, it is traditionally made into garlands to wear around your hair; this is done to attract love. It is also carried in the pocket for good fortune. It is known as a “lucky” flower. Some gamblers wash their hands in a chamomile infusion in the hopes it will bring them winning luck. Sprinkling chamomile infusion around the perimeter of one’s property is believed to have the power to remove curses and spells cast upon the residents who live there.

Tips for Sharing

I’m not sure how much of this is actually true, but, the next time someone you hold near and dear is going through a hard time, consider sending a supportive message of patience, renewal and resilient energy in adversity by handing them a bouquet of fresh chamomile flowers. Then make them a cup of tea, and allow patience to overflow.

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