Real chamomile (Artemisia granatensis)

The real chamomile is a small herbaceous plant with a long root that is driven into the rocks of the mountains, where he spends most of his life covered by ice. It is a very populous grass leaves covered with silky hairs that give it a silvery tone, these leaves are small and have a long corner. The flowers come together in tiny florets. The grass gives off a gentle aroma vaguely reminiscent of the common chamomile. This herb is given only in Sierra Nevada in Granada, from the 2300 m.de height. As much as it has looked elsewhere, has not been found, hence is also called "chamomile Sierra Nevada."

FLOWERING

Although it is a characteristic of cool-season plant, expected to bloom in summer, just at the time of maximum heat. Harvesting for medicinal purposes what is most interesting chapters are the flowers. In fact, only the flower heads should be collected, as is common with chamomile. But the cruel hand of man is not usually respect nature-starts the whole plant by the roots, as always motivated by profit. Certainly, if one had some elementary knowledge of botany, will know that the flower heads just to take the virtues of this plant.

APPLICATIONS

Chamomile contains a certain amount of real substance in addition to other active, possibly similar to those of common camomile, but the truth is that for a fact not much is known about its composition. Its main virtues refer to their stomach and digestive properties. In the area where there is this herb is often used as a substitute for common chamomile. Recall that chamomile has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, carminative, spasmolytic, and so on., And is particularly indicated in all matters relating to the digestive tract such as gastritis, ulcers, colitis, gastrointestinal spasms, slow digestion, bloating and any similar ailment. This real chamomile can be used following the same indications, although its effects are milder and less well studied. Also need to remember that, like any plant that has an essence in its composition, the chances of allergic problems to occur are quite high, so we must always listen to the advice of the doctor who is the best adviser on health matters.

ADMINISTRATION

Infusion. When the infusion is prepared only with very fragrant flower heads. But unfortunately it is normal to find a whole plant powder. In any case, we take two or three cups a day when he noticed a little upset stomach.

SUMMARY

FAMILY: Composite tubulifloras
HABITAT: Sierra Nevada
FLOWERING: Summer
PART USED: Chapters floral
CASTILIAN: Manzanilla de la sierra

USES

Digestive Moderate, Mild inflammatory, Mild Carminative.