Matricaria maritima is a flower species in the asteraceae family as well as being a famous medicinal plant. It is closely related to the well known Chamomile and is believed to have similar functions. It is found in many coastal areas of Northern Europe, including Scandinavia and Iceland. In Iceland its name is Baldr´s eyelashes (Baldursbrá).
Chamomile has for centuries been used in herbal medicine and it´s flowers are made into popular and widely used herbal tea. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans all used the plant to fight cold, chills, fever, headaches, pain, bladder and kidney problems. The Egyptians declared it a sacred herb and dedicated it to Ra, their sun god. In Germany – where the herb has been researched extensively – Chamomile has earned the nickname “can do anything”, a tribune to its many healing benefits.
The Icelandic Baldursbrá is considered equivalent to Chamomile and is used in the same way. It´s considered calming and is used by people suffering from stress, anxiety and insomnia. Its effects are healing and soothing, especially for the digestive tract, where it also works in a supportive way. It´s used by people with ulcers and inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, spasm pain, diarrhea and gastrointestinal upsets. Because of Chamomile´s mild nature it is popular and widely used for children, such as those suffering colic, indigestion and restlessness. Chamomile is also considered good against colds and to strengthen the immune system, speed healing and is believed to be good for those who are prone to allergies.
Chamomile has antibacterial, antispasmodic, pain-relieving and tonic properties. The plant is rich in calcium, iron and magnesium.
Special precautions: People allergic to plants in the aster, chrysanthemum, daisy and ragweed families may have an allergic reaction to Chamomile.
Baldursbrá is used in Pure Pick-Up because of its many healing benefits.
Icelandic Chamomile – Matricaria maritima
