German Chamomile ( Matricaria Chamomile ) PB 3/4

### **German Chamomile (*Matricaria recutita*): The Herb of Harmony and Healing**

German Chamomile (*Matricaria recutita*) is a **calming, healing** herb that carries the **elements of Water and Earth**, known for its ability to **ease stress**, **nourish the body**, and **calm the spirit**. Revered for its gentle yet effective properties, it is often used to **balance emotions**, **support digestion**, and promote **relaxation**. This versatile herb is uniquely governed by both the **Sun** and the **Moon**, embodying both **vitality** and **calm**, creating a perfect balance between **energy** and **rest**.

### **Temperament & Elements**
- **Temperament:** Cool & Moist (Phlegmatic) – Soothes inflammation, promotes relaxation, and nurtures the body.
- **Elements:** **Water** provides calmness and emotional balance, while **Earth** nourishes, heals, and supports overall well-being.
- **Planet:** **Sun & Moon** – The **Sun** represents **vitality**, **energy**, and **clarity**, and chamomile's ability to uplift the spirit and encourage warmth aligns with the Sun's essence. The **Moon**, on the other hand, governs **intuition**, **calm**, and **emotional healing**, which chamomile embodies in its ability to soothe anxiety, promote restful sleep, and nurture the soul.

### **Organs & Functions**
- **Nervous System** – German Chamomile is one of the most famous **calming herbs**, often used to alleviate **anxiety**, **insomnia**, and **nervous tension**. It is a perfect herb for **restorative rest** and promoting **mental clarity** by balancing both the solar energy of vitality and the lunar energy of relaxation.
- **Digestive System** – Chamomile supports digestion by **easing indigestion**, **gas**, **bloating**, and **irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)**. It encourages a healthy gut and a balanced appetite, calming the digestive system and aiding in overall digestion, just like the Moon helps regulate the body's natural cycles.
- **Skin & Inflammation** – Chamomile is known for its **anti-inflammatory** and **antiseptic** properties, making it effective for treating **skin irritations**, **eczema**, and **dermatitis**. It soothes **swelling** and **redness**, bringing both clarity and calm to irritated skin.
- **Respiratory System** – German Chamomile is mild in its **expectorant** effects, helping to soothe **cold symptoms**, **sinus congestion**, and **bronchitis**. It clears the lungs, helping to open up the airways in a gentle way, much like the gentle illumination of the Moon’s light.
- **Immune System** – With its **anti-inflammatory** and **antioxidant** properties, chamomile supports the **immune system**, helping to ward off infections and strengthen the body’s natural defenses.

### **Growth & Harvesting**
- **Growth Habit:** German Chamomile is a **self-seeding annual** that grows 1-2 feet tall, with delicate **daisy-like flowers** and feathery, **aromatic leaves**. It thrives in **well-drained, fertile soil** and prefers **full sun**, although it can grow in partial shade as well.
- **Frost Resistance:** **Frost-sensitive** – Chamomile typically thrives as an annual, though it can tolerate light frosts.
- **When to Harvest:** Harvest the **flowers** when they are in full bloom, typically in **late spring to early summer**. The flowers are dried for use in teas, tinctures, and oils.

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**German Chamomile**, governed by both the **Sun** and the **Moon**, brings a harmonious balance of **energy** and **relaxation**. Its **solar** qualities uplift the spirit, restore vitality, and promote warmth, while its **lunar** attributes soothe the mind, ease anxiety, and encourage restful sleep. Together, these dual planetary influences make German Chamomile a perfect herb for **mental clarity**, **digestive health**, and **emotional balance**.

**Disclaimer**:
German chamomile should not replace professional medical treatment. Consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if pregnant, nursing, or on medication.