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Stinking Chamomile (Anthemis cotula)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Asteraceae
  • Common Names: Stinking Chamomile, Dog Fennel, Mayweed
  • Parts Used: Aerial parts (flowers, leaves)

Description

Anthemis cotula is an annual herbaceous plant native to Europe and naturalized in many temperate regions. Despite its resemblance to true chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), it is distinguished by its strong, unpleasant odor. Traditionally used in folk medicine, stinking chamomile has been employed for digestive, anti-inflammatory, and insecticidal properties.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in traditional European herbal medicine for digestive issues and menstrual discomfort.
  • Applied topically to treat skin conditions, wounds, and insect bites.
  • Historically used as an insect repellent due to its strong scent.

Constituents

  • Volatile oils (including pinene, camphor)
  • Flavonoids
  • Coumarins
  • Tannins
  • Sesquiterpene lactones

Actions

  • Carminative (relieves gas)
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Diaphoretic (promotes sweating)
  • Antispasmodic
  • Insecticidal
  • Mild analgesic

Medicinal Uses

1. Digestive Support:
Stinking chamomile has been traditionally used to relieve bloating, indigestion, and colic.

2. Menstrual Health:
Historically used to ease menstrual cramps and regulate menstruation.

3. Skin and Wound Care:
Infusions or poultices have been applied externally to treat sores, burns, and insect bites.

4. Anti-inflammatory and Pain Relief:
Used in folk remedies to relieve muscle pain, joint inflammation, and headaches.

5. Insect Repellent:
Dried flowers and leaves were historically used to repel fleas and insects.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried aerial parts per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink 1-2 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-4 ml of tincture taken 2-3 times daily.

Poultice:

  • Crushed fresh leaves applied to wounds, rashes, or insect bites.

Insect Repellent:

  • Dried flowers can be placed in sachets or burned to deter insects.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Skin Sensitivity: May cause irritation or allergic reactions, particularly in those sensitive to Asteraceae plants.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Not recommended due to possible uterine-stimulating effects.
  • Strong Odor: Some individuals may find the smell unpleasant or overpowering.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional European Medicine: Warming and drying, used to expel dampness and regulate digestion.

Combinations

  • For Digestive Health: Combine with fennel and peppermint.
  • For Menstrual Support: Combine with raspberry leaf and cramp bark.
  • For Skin and Wound Healing: Combine with calendula and plantain.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Gather aerial parts during the flowering season.
  • Drying: Dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried material in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Modern Research

Studies highlight its potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, but it is less commonly used in modern herbal medicine due to its strong odor and possible skin irritation.

Stinking Chamomile remains a traditional herb valued for its digestive, anti-inflammatory, and insecticidal properties, though it requires careful use due to potential skin sensitivity.