Matricaria recutita, Wild Chamomile, False chamomile, German Mayweed, Sweet Feverfew

Last updated: February 8, 2026Reviewed date: February 8, 2026Reading time: 9 min read

Patient Tools

Read, save, and share this guide

Use these quick tools to make this medical article easier to read, print, save, or share with a family member.

Patient Mode

Understand this article easily

Switch between simple English and easy Bangla patient notes. This is for education and does not replace a doctor consultation.

For severe symptoms, danger signs, pregnancy, child illness, or sudden worsening, seek urgent medical care.

বাংলা রোগী নোট এখনো যোগ করা হয়নি। পোস্ট এডিটরে “RX Bangla Patient Mode” বক্স থেকে সহজ বাংলা সারাংশ যোগ করুন।

এই তথ্য শিক্ষা ও সচেতনতার জন্য। এটি ডাক্তারি পরীক্ষা, রোগ নির্ণয় বা প্রেসক্রিপশনের বিকল্প নয়।

Article Summary

Key Takeaways

This article explains German Chamomile facts in simple medical language.
This article explains German Chamomile Scientific Classification in simple medical language.
This article explains Health Benefits of German Chamomile in simple medical language.
This article explains Traditional uses in simple medical language.

Educational health guideWritten for patient understanding and clinical awareness.

Reviewed content workflowUse writer and reviewer profiles for stronger trust.

Emergency safety firstUrgent warning signs are highlighted below.

Seek urgent medical care if you notice

These warning signs are general safety guidance. Local emergency numbers and clinical judgment should always come first.

Severe symptoms, breathing difficulty, fainting, confusion, or rapidly worsening illness.
New weakness, severe pain, high fever, or symptoms after a serious injury.
Any symptom that feels urgent, unusual, or unsafe for the patient.

Emergency now

Use emergency care for severe, sudden, rapidly worsening, or life-threatening symptoms.

See a doctor

Book a professional medical evaluation if symptoms persist, worsen, recur often, affect daily activities, or occur in a high-risk patient.

Learn safely

Use this article to understand possible causes, tests, treatment options, prevention, and questions to ask your clinician.

Matricaria recutita (Wild Chamomile, False chamomile, German Mayweed, Sweet Feverfew, True chamomile, Hungarian Chamomile or Single Chamomile) is the plant which is about 2.3 to 23.5 inches tall that has got furrowed and heavily branched stems, belonging to the family Asteraceae and genus Matricaria L. Probably German Chamomile is native to Europe and Northwest Asia. This plant possesses thin and long stems with tiny flowers that resembles daisy. It is widely naturalized in North America, Australia and South America. This plant is used to extract oil by steam distillation or solvent extraction of golden to yellow flowers alike Roman chamomile. This herbal medicine is useful for treating irritable bowel syndrome, sore stomach and aids sleep. It is used to treat stuffy nose, travel sickness, nervous diarrhea, hay fever, intestinal gas, fibromyalgia, nervous diarrhea, trouble in sleeping and restlessness. It helps to lower swelling and enhance relaxation.

German Chamomile facts

Name	German Chamomile
Scientific Name	Matricaria recutita
Native	German Chamomile is native to Europe and Northwest Asia and got naturalized in North America.
Common/English Name	Wild Chamomile, False chamomile, German Mayweed, Sweet Feverfew, True chamomile, Sweet false chamomile, Chamomile Flowers, Standardized Chamomile Extract, Kid Chamomile, Pin Heads, Chamomilla, Chamomile, Hungarian Chamomile, Single Chamomile
Name in Other Languages	Catalan: Camamilla, Majola, Camamil·la, Maçanella, Matricària; Occitan: Bolièg, Camamilha, Bolèg, Èrba a l’uelh, Camomilh; Danish: Vellugtende kamille; Dutch: Echte kamille; English: Blue chamomile, German chamomile, Chamomile, Hungarian chamomile, White chamomile, Scented chamomile, Wild chamomile; Finnish: Kamomillasaunio; French: Camomille commune , Camomille vraie, Camomille d’Allemagne, Matricaire tronquée, Matricaire fausse camomille; German: Echte Kamille; Hindi: Babuna; Italian: Amareggiola, Camomilla vulgare, Camomilla commune; Norwegian: Ettårig kamille, Kamomilleblom, Kamille; Persian: Babunaj, Babune; Polish: Rumianek pospolity, Rumianek bezpromieniowy; Portuguese: Camomila, Mançanilha, Camomila da alemanha, Margaça-das-boticas, Manzanella; Russian: Romashka aptechnaia (Ромашка аптечная); Sanskrit: Babunaj, Babuna; Spanish: Camomilla, Manzanilla alemana, Manzanilla, Manzanilla cimarrona, Manzanilla común, Manzanilla dulce, Manzanilla de Aragón, Manzanilla matricaria, Manzanilla húngara; Swedish: Äkta Kamomill, Söt kamomill, Blå kamomill, Ungersk kamomilll, Tysk kamomill; Urdu: Babuna; Vietnamese: Dương cam cúc; Afrikaans: Egte kamille; Chinese: Mǔ jú (母菊); Finnish: kamomillasaunio; Latin: Anthodium Chamomillae, Flores Chamomillae;
Plant Growth Habit	Erect or ascending, glabrous
Plant Size	20 to 40 cm high
Stem	Erect, glabrous
Leaf	Oblong, Length: (1.5-) 2.5 – 6 (-7) cm, Wide: 2 cm, narrow thorny tip
Flowering Season	Mid Spring
Flower	Flower head: 3/4 inch broad, strap shaped, white with yellow center, fragrant, showy
Taste	Bitter
Plants parts used	Flowers

German Chamomile Scientific Classification

Scientific Name: Matricaria recutita

Rank	Scientific Name & (Common Name)
Kingdom	Plantae (Plants)
Subkingdom	Viridiplantae
Infrakingdom	Streptophyta (Land plants)
Superdivision	Embryophyta
Division	Tracheophyta (Vascular plants, tracheophytes)
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Asterales
Family	Asteraceae (Sunflowers, tournesols)
Genus	Matricaria L. (Mayweed)
Species	Matricaria chamomilla L. (German chamomile, crown mayweed)
Synonyms	Camomilla deflexa Gilib. Camomilla patens Gilib. Chamaemelum suaveolens E.H.L.Krause Chamaemelum vulgare Bubani Chamomilla chamomilla (L.) Rydb. Chamomilla chamomilla f. courrantiana (DC.) Fiori & Paol. Chamomilla chamomilla f. pusilla (Willd.) Fiori & Paol. Chamomilla chamomilla f. suaveolens Fiori & Paol. Chamomilla chamomilla subsp. pusilla (Willd.) Holmboe Chamomilla chamomilla var. coronata Coss. & Germ. Chamomilla chamomilla var. pusilla (Willd.) Fiori Chamomilla chamomilla var. recutita (L.) Fiori Chamomilla chamomilla var. recutita (L.) Grierson Chamomilla courrantiana (DC.) Chamomilla officinalis C.Koch Chamomilla patens Gilib. Chamomilla recutita Chamomilla recutita (L.) Rauschert Chamomilla recutita subsp. bayeri Chamomilla vulgaris Gray Chrysanthemum chamomilla (L.) Bernh. Chrysanthemum chamomilla Bernh. Chrysanthemum suaveolens (L.) Cav. Courrantia chamomilloides Sch. Bip. Matricaria bayeri Kanitz Matricaria bayeri Kanitz Matricaria capitellata Batt. & Pit. Matricaria chamomilla f. kochiana (Sch.Bip.) Fiori & Paol. Matricaria chamomilla f. suaveolens Fiori & Paol. Matricaria chamomilla L. Matricaria chamomilla subsp. pusilla (Willd.) Holmboe Matricaria chamomilla var. coronata (J. Gay) Coss. & Germ. Matricaria chamomilla var. coronate Matricaria chamomilla var. recutita (L.) Fiori Matricaria chamomilla var. recutita (L.) Grierson Matricaria courrantiana DC. Matricaria exigua Tuntas Matricaria kochiana Sch. Bip. Matricaria pusilla Willd. Matricaria recutita L. Matricaria recutita var. coronata (Boiss.) Halácsy Matricaria recutita var. kochiana (Sch.Bip.) Greuter Matricaria recutita var. recutita L. Matricaria salina (Schur) Schur Matricaria suaveolens Matricaria suaveolens auct. non L. Matricaria suaveolens L.

Plant

German Chamomile is an erect, ascending or glabrous herb that measures about 20-40 cm high. It has got glabrous and erect stem that bears fragrant, showy flowers that are white with yellow center. The flower head measures about 3/4 inch broad. Leaves are oblong with narrow thorny tip, (1.5-) 2.5 – 6 (-7) cm long and 2 cm wide. This plant bears flower during mid-spring.

Health Benefits of German Chamomile

Chamomile is widely known to the Western world, with its two known varieties such as Roman chamomile and German Chamomile. Though they refers different species both are used for treating the same health ailments such as stomach problems, calms frayed nerves, skin problems, muscle spasms and infections. It has been used for thousands of years for medicinal purposes that date back to ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans.

Treatment for insomnia or anxiety

German chamomile is used to provide relief from sleeping problems and anxiety. The clinical trial made on the treatment of anxiety in people shows that the capsules made from German chamomile helps to lower the anxiety symptoms in the people having mild to moderate generalized anxiety disorder. The animal studies shows that the high dose assist sleep whereas low doses is used to provide relief from anxiety.

Cure for digestive problems

Traditionally, German chamomile is used to cure irritable bowel syndrome, stomach cramps, diarrhea, indigestion, colic and gas. It soothes as well as relaxes contractions of muscles. No human studies have been made for these conditions. The studies shows that the combination of peppermint, iberis and chamomile is used to provide relief from indigestion symptoms.

Mouth sores

German chamomile is used to treat mouth problems but no evidence has been provided. It is used as a mouthwash for the prevention of mouth sores.

Useful for eczema

German chamomile is used in ointment or cream for soothing irritated skin but no studies have been made with people. The studies have shown that the Chamomile cream provides relief from eczema symptoms.

Traditional uses

It is sedative, carminative and tonic.
Make the infusion of 1 pint of boiling water and ½ oz. of dried flower for treating ailments in children.
It could be used as a tonic for gastrointestinal canal.
It is also useful for the conditions such as earache, stomach disorders, neuralgic pain and infantile convulsions.
Use it externally fomentation.
It is used in Folk medicine to treat flatulence and diarrhea.
It is also used externally for hemorrhoids, furuncles, acne and abscesses.
It is used for the cramps in gastrointestinal tract, infection, or irritation, often causing pain, swelling, heat, or redness. সহজ বাংলা: শরীরের প্রদাহ; ব্যথা, ফোলা বা লালভাব হতে পারে।" data-rx-term="inflammation" data-rx-definition="Inflammation is the body’s response to injury, infection, or irritation, often causing pain, swelling, heat, or redness. সহজ বাংলা: শরীরের প্রদাহ; ব্যথা, ফোলা বা লালভাব হতে পারে।">inflammation of upper respiratory tract, teething symptoms and dysmenorrhea.
Since 1st century AD, it is used to treat digestive problems.
It is a treatment for hiatus hernia or peptic ulcer.
German chamomile is used as a remedy for asthma and hay fever.
As it possess anti-allergic properties, it helps to treat allergies in the body.
It is also applied to the sore as well as itchy skin or eczema.

Precautions

One might experience allergic reactions such as tightness in throat, tongue thickening, swelling of eyes, throat or lips.
The people who are allergic to ragwort or ragweed or sensitivity to Asteraceae or Compositae family such as feverfew, milk thistle and Echinacea should avoid it as soon as possible.
Pregnant and breast feeding women should avoid its excessive use.
Allergic people should avoid it.

How to Eat

The fresh flowers are used to make herbal tea.
It is used to add flavor to the alcoholic beverages (Benedictine and vermouth), confectionery, ice cream, candy, desserts, baked goods, and chewing gum.

References

Safety note: This is not a prescription or diagnosis. For severe symptoms, pregnancy danger signs, children with serious illness, chest pain, breathing difficulty, stroke-like weakness, or major injury, seek urgent care.

Which doctor may help?

General physician, medicine specialist, pediatrician for children, or emergency care if severe.

What to tell the doctor

Write fever days, highest temperature, chills, rash, cough, urine burning, diarrhea, travel, dengue/malaria exposure.
Bring medicine history, especially antibiotics already taken.

Questions to ask

Is this likely viral, bacterial, dengue, malaria, typhoid, UTI, pneumonia, or another infection?
Which tests are needed today?
Do I need antibiotics, or should I avoid them?

Tests to discuss

Temperature and hydration assessment
CBC with platelet count when dengue or infection is suspected
Urine test if urinary symptoms
Malaria/dengue/typhoid/COVID tests depending on local risk and symptoms

Avoid these mistakes

Avoid self-starting antibiotics.
Avoid aspirin in suspected dengue or children unless a doctor advises.
Seek urgent care for confusion, breathing trouble, dehydration, stiff neck, seizure, or persistent very high fever.

Medicine safety and first-aid guide

This section is for patient education only. It does not replace a doctor, pharmacist, or emergency care.

Safe first steps

Drink safe fluids and monitor temperature.
In dengue-prone areas, discuss CBC and platelet count when fever persists or warning signs appear.
Use tepid sponging for high fever discomfort; avoid ice-cold bathing.

OTC medicine safety

For fever, common fever medicine may be discussed with a clinician or pharmacist.
Avoid aspirin/ibuprofen-like medicines in suspected dengue unless a doctor says it is safe.

Avoid these mistakes

Do not start antibiotics without a proper medical decision.
Do not use steroid tablets or injections casually for quick relief.
Do not delay emergency care because of home remedies.

Get urgent help if

Fever with breathing difficulty, confusion, repeated vomiting, bleeding, severe weakness, stiff neck, or dehydration needs urgent care.

Medicine names, dose, and timing must be decided by a qualified clinician or pharmacist after checking age, pregnancy, allergy, other diseases, and current medicines.

For rural patients and family caregivers

Patient health record and symptom diary

Write your symptoms, medicines already taken, test results, and questions before visiting a doctor. This note stays on your device unless you print or copy it.

Doctor to discuss: Medicine doctor / pediatrician for children / qualified clinician

Tests to discuss with doctor

Temperature chart and hydration assessment
CBC with platelet count if fever persists or dengue/other infection is possible
Urine test, malaria/dengue tests, chest evaluation, or blood culture only when clinically indicated

Questions to ask

What is the most likely cause of my symptoms?
Which warning signs mean I should go to emergency care?
Which tests are really needed now?
Which medicines are safe for my age, pregnancy status, allergy, kidney/liver/stomach condition, and current medicines?
Do I need antibiotics, or is this more likely viral?

Emergency warning signs such as chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, sudden weakness, confusion, severe dehydration, major injury, or loss of bladder/bowel control need urgent medical care. Do not wait for online information.

Go to emergency care if you notice:

Very drowsy/confused, severe breathing difficulty, stiff neck, seizure, severe dehydration, or persistent vomiting
Bleeding, severe abdominal pain, very low urine, or dengue warning signs during fever season

Doctor / service to discuss: Medicine doctor, pediatrician for children, or qualified clinician.

Step 1
Check danger signs first
If danger signs are present, seek emergency care and do not wait for online information.
Step 2
Record the symptom story
Write when symptoms started, severity, medicines already taken, allergies, pregnancy status, and test results.
Step 3
Visit a qualified clinician
A doctor, nurse, or qualified healthcare provider can examine you and decide which tests or treatment are needed.
Step 4
Do only useful tests
Discuss temperature chart, hydration, CBC with platelet count when needed, urine test, dengue/malaria testing, or other tests based on local disease risk and examination.
Step 5
Follow up and return early if worse
If symptoms worsen, new warning signs appear, or treatment is not helping, return for review quickly.

Rural patient practical tips

Take a written symptom diary and all previous prescriptions/test reports.
Do not hide medicines already taken, even herbal or over-the-counter medicines.
Ask which warning signs mean urgent referral to hospital.
Do not start antibiotics blindly for every fever; many fevers are viral and need correct assessment.

This roadmap is for education. A real diagnosis and treatment plan requires history, examination, and clinical judgment.

RX Patient Help

Ask a health question safely

Write your symptom story. A health professional or site editor can review it before any answer is prepared. This box is not for emergency care.

Emergency first: Severe chest pain, breathing trouble, unconsciousness, stroke signs, severe injury, heavy bleeding, or rapidly worsening symptoms need urgent local medical care now.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this article a replacement for a doctor?

No. It is educational content only. Patients should consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment.

When should I seek urgent care?

Seek urgent care for severe symptoms, rapidly worsening condition, breathing difficulty, severe pain, neurological changes, or any emergency warning sign.