Corn Chamomile Anthemis arvensis

Names

• Family

  Asteraceae.

• Synonyms

  Corn Chamomile, Field Chamomile, Mayweed, Daisy.

• Common names

  Anthemis agrestis, Anthemis arvensis subsp. cyllenea, Anthemis arvensis var. agrestis, Anthemis arvensis var. arvensis, Anthemis arvensis var. sterilis, Anthemis arvensis var. stridula, Anthemis arvensis var. suavis, Anthemis austriaca, Anthemis cotula, Anthemis grandiflorum, Anthemis hydruntina, Anthemis procurrens, Anthemis pseudocotula, Anthemis ruthenica, Chamaemelum arvense, Cota arvensis, Ormenis arvensis.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Corn chamomile (Anthemis arvensis) is not generally considered highly toxic to humans. However, it may be mildly irritating if ingested, potentially causing gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The plant may also cause allergic skin reactions in some individuals when touched.

• To pets

  Corn chamomile is also not typically considered highly toxic to pets. Nevertheless, ingesting this plant could cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in animals too, leading to symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Pets with a particular sensitivity might also experience skin irritation if they come into contact with the plant. Always monitor your pet's health and consult with a veterinarian if they exhibit any adverse symptoms after ingesting unknown plants.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Annuals

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  1-2 feet (30-60 cm)

• Spread

  1 foot (30 cm)

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  2

• Native area

  Europe

General Benefits

• Attracts Pollinators: Anthemis arvensis, commonly known as corn chamomile, can attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies to the garden for pollination.
• Erosion Control: The plant has a root system that can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
• Ornamental Use: Corn chamomile produces attractive flowers that can be used in wildflower meadows or as a part of ornamental garden designs.
• Wildlife Habitat: It provides shelter and habitat for various small insects and animals within an ecosystem.
• Companion Planting: Corn chamomile can be planted alongside crops to attract beneficial insects or as part of a biodiversity mix on farms.
• Drought Tolerance: This plant is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
• Soil Fertility: It can play a role in crop rotation systems to help maintain or improve soil fertility.
• Culinary Use: While not as commonly used as its relative, the Roman chamomile, the flowers and leaves may sometimes be used for flavoring in food.

Medical Properties

• Anti-inflammatory: Anthemis arvensis is traditionally used for its potential anti-inflammatory properties to alleviate skin irritation and inflammation.
• Antispasmodic: The plant has been reported to possess antispasmodic effects which may help relieve muscle spasms and gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Carminative: As a carminative, it may help with the relief of gastrointestinal issues such as gas and bloating.
• Diuretic: It is suggested to have diuretic properties which might aid in increasing the passage of urine.
• Emmenagogue: The plant is sometimes used as an emmenagogue to stimulate blood flow in the pelvic area and uterus, potentially helping in menstrual disorders.
• Sedative: Anthemis arvensis has been reported to have a mild sedative effect, which may be beneficial in cases of insomnia or anxiety.
• Skin healing: It is traditionally used for promoting skin healing, especially in the case of minor wounds, cuts, or abrasions.
• Antimicrobial: There are reports of antimicrobial activity that suggest it could be useful against certain bacteria and fungi.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Anthemis arvensis, commonly known as Corn Chamomile, can be used as a natural dye, with various parts of the plant yielding different shades on wool and textiles.
• The flowers of Corn Chamomile can be dried and used in potpourri for their pleasant aroma and to add a touch of color to the mixture.
• Corn Chamomile plants can attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and hoverflies, which can help control pest populations in a garden.
• The plant can be used as a companion plant in agricultural settings, as it may deter certain pests from more valuable crops through its scent or by attracting natural predators.
• Corn Chamomile can serve as a ground cover in some settings, helping to reduce soil erosion with its dense growth habit.
• The robust nature of Corn Chamomile allows it to be used in phytoremediation efforts to help stabilize soils and reduce the impact of contamination.
• The plant is sometimes used in floral arrangements, particularly wildflower bouquets, for its delicate and daisy-like appearance.
• In some traditional practices, Corn Chamomile is used as a stuffing material for pillows and mattresses, believed to promote a soothing sleep environment.
• Corn Chamomile's fibrous stems can be used as a natural source of biomass for sustainable fuel or material in crafting.
• The seeds of Corn Chamomile can be added to bird feed mixes to provide a source of food for wild birds, thereby contributing to local biodiversity.

Feng Shui

The Corn Chamomile is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Corn Chamomile is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Innocence: Anthemis arvensis, commonly known as corn chamomile, often symbolizes innocence due to its delicate and simple white flowers that are reminiscent of a pure, unspoiled nature.
• Purity: The clear white color of its petals is frequently associated with cleanliness and morality, serving as a representation of purity in various cultural contexts.
• Patience: Corn chamomile is a hardy plant that can thrive in difficult conditions, which is why it is sometimes used to signify patience and the ability to endure challenging situations.
• Simplicity: The unassuming appearance of corn chamomile with its modest blooms and its ability to grow in humble places often makes it a symbol of simplicity and contentment with little.