German chamomile

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Definition

Noun: 1. An annual Eurasian herb (Matricaria recutita): A plant species native to Europe and Western Asia, closely related to and often confused with other chamomile species. It is characterized by its fragrant, daisy-like flowers with white petals and a yellow central disc, which are used for medicinal and aromatic purposes.

Usage Notes
  • "German chamomile" refers specifically to the plant species . It is a countable noun when referring to individual plants (e.g., ), and an uncountable noun when referring to the dried herb or its products (e.g., ).
  • It is commonly used in contexts related to herbal medicine, gardening, aromatherapy, and culinary applications (primarily as a tea).
Examples
  • Noun:
    • I planted German chamomile in my herb garden this spring.
    • For a calming tea, steep a teaspoon of dried German chamomile in hot water.
    • The essential oil of German chamomile is known for its soothing properties.
Advanced Usage
  • Botanical Distinction: In botanical and herbalist contexts, "German chamomile" is precisely distinguished from "Roman chamomile" (), which is a perennial plant with a different chemical profile and growth habit.
  • Commercial Context: The term is used on product labels for teas, tinctures, capsules, and skincare items to specify the plant source.
Variants and Related Words
  • Matricaria recutita (n): The scientific (Latin) name for German chamomile.
  • Wild chamomile (n): A common alternative name for German chamomile.
  • Hungarian chamomile (n): Another name for the same species, reflecting a region where it is cultivated.
  • Blue chamomile (n): A term sometimes used for the essential oil of German chamomile, which can have a deep blue color due to the chamazulene content.
Synonyms
  • True chamomile: A synonym emphasizing its status as the most commonly used medicinal chamomile.
  • Scented mayweed: A regional name, though "mayweed" can also refer to inedible or foul-smelling similar plants, so this synonym requires caution.
Notes on Meaning

The definition notes that compared to its relative, common or Roman chamomile, German chamomile has a more bitter taste and its medicinal effect is considered inferior by some traditional assessments. However, in modern herbal practice, German chamomile is highly valued and widely used, often considered the premier variety for internal use as a tea to aid digestion and promote relaxation.

Noun
  1. annual Eurasian herb similar in fragrance and medicinal uses to chamomile though taste is more bitter and effect is considered inferior

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