Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla):

Botanical Description:
Chamomile is an aromatic herb with daisy-like flowers, belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe and western Asia and is cultivated worldwide.

Traditional Energetics:

Ayurvedic: Chamomile is considered cooling and calming, balancing Pitta and Vata doshas.
TCM: Chamomile is not extensively used in TCM, but its properties align with those that soothe Liver Qi and calm the Shen (spirit).

TCM Uses:

Chamomile is used in TCM to calm the mind, ease anxiety, and promote relaxation.

Common Folk Uses:

Chamomile tea is popular as a mild sedative and sleep aid.
It's used to alleviate digestive issues such as indigestion, bloating, and nausea.

Dosage:

Aqueous Decoction: 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers per cup of water, steeped for 5-10 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups daily.
1:2 Tincture: 2-4 ml, three times a day.

Folk Tale:

In European folklore, chamomile was associated with the sun and considered a plant of wealth and prosperity. It was believed that planting chamomile around one's home would bring good luck and abundance.