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Wild Moroccan Chamomile
(Ormenis multicaulis)
Wild Moroccan Chamomile (Ormenis multicaulis) is an annual herb belonging to the Asteraceae (Compositae) family, and is native to northwestern Africa. It grows abundantly in the wild in northern Morocco and has been distilled in that country since the 1970's. Wild Moroccan Chamomile is one of three varieties of chamomile used in perfumery and cosmetics. It is different from the other Chamomiles in both chemical composition and scent.
Moroccan chamomile is not considered a True chamomile. It should not be used as a replacement for Roman or German Chamomiles, because it is chemically and aromatically different.
It is known as a skin healer and regenerator: and has become a popular addition to skin cremes, natural make up, and all kinds of natural body products.
It is also known for its calming properties; and can relax stress and tension simply by inhaling the complex aroma. Soothing, calming and relaxing. Traditionally used as a muscle relaxant and skin conditioner.
Latin Name: Ormenis multicaulis
Family: Asteraceae
Common Names: Wild Chamomile, Wild Moroccan Chamomile, Moroccan Chamomile
Parts Used: Flowers
Plant Type: A perennial herb with hairy leaves. The flowers resemble small daisies, with sunny-yellow centers surrounded by white ligules (a scalelike projection, a small tongue).
Properties: Analgesic, anti-allergic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, emmenagogue, sedative, cholagogue, hepatic.
Constituents: Contains mainly terpenes with alpha-pinene being major, Santolina and yomogi alcohols, camphor and 1,8 cineole.
Medicinal Uses: Anti-inflammatory (used for rheumatism and is supportive of the gall bladder), responds with an incredible array of benefits for the skin as it it is rich with sesquiterpenes and azulenes. Relieves stress and tension, Mild sedative effect. Allergies, dermatitis, eczema, inflammation, insomnia, irritability.
Foraging: Collect flowers in full bloom.
Aroma: Fresh, herbaceous, fruity. balsamic, with notes of apple and cherry.
Preparation Methods: Dried or fresh flowers are used in teas or tinctured.
Suggestions for Preparation
Tea (Infusion):
Boil 1 teaspoon of dried or 2 teaspoons of fresh flowers in 1 cup of boiling water, let steep for 15 to 20 minutes. Drink two to three cups a day.
If you find your tea too bitter, steep for less time.
Tincture:
Fill jar 2/3 to 3/4 full with dried or fresh flowers & cover with 90 proof grain alcohol to the very top of the jar ( Cover plants completely).
Store your tincture in a cool, dark, dry place. Shake several times a week, and check your alcohol levels. Allow the mixture to extract for 6 to 8 weeks.
Plant Identification
Wild Moroccan Chamomile is a perennial herb with hairy leaves. The flowers resemble small daisies, with sunny-yellow centers surrounded by white ligules (a scalelike projection), blossoms in the spring, forming its characteristic flowers at the ends of stems that grow to more than one meter in height..
Look Alikes
Dyer's chamomile (Anthemis tinctoria)
Corn Chamomile (Anthemis Arvensis)
Roman Chamomile Flowers (Chamaemelum Nobile)
German Chamomile Flowers
Information Disclaimer
Information on the traditional uses and properties of herbs that are provided on this site is for educational use only, and is not intended as medical advice. Every attempt has been made for accuracy, but none is guaranteed. Many traditional uses and properties of herbs have not been validated by the FDA. If you have any serious health concerns, you should always check with your health care practitioner before self-administering herbs.
Resources:
arianrhodaromatics.com