There are two different plants that go by the name chamomile: German chamomile (matricaria recutita) & Roman chamomile (chamaemelum nobile).  Both chamomiles have daisy-like flowers that smell of apples & thread-like leaves. They also share similar properties, as they are relatives, both belonging to the Composite family. True Chamomile refers to Roman Chamomile, also known as English Chamomile or Common Chamomile, and is often used in herbal and cosmetic preparations. German Chamomile contains a higher level of essential oil and is more popular in the aromatherapy field.

Roman chamomile is hardier & more suitable to colder climates, it is a low growing perennial and has a more bitter flavour. German chamomile is a taller annual and it often produces more flowers.

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Chamomile has been used as far back as Ancient Egypt, as a treatment for fever. The Ancient Romans used it to treat venomous snake bites. The term Chamomile is derived from the Greek word "khamaimelon" loosely meaning: ground apple, as it crawls along the ground & its flowers have an apple aroma.

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Today, Chamomile is popular as an herbal tea. It is praised for it's calming effects. It is also used in soaps& lotions due to is skin soothing benefits.