Tripleurospermum maritimum

Tripleurospermum maritimum

Plant Family

Asteraceae

Botanical Description

Sea Mayweed is an annual or perennial plant growing 20-60 cm tall with finely divided, fleshy leaves and daisy-like flower heads with white ray florets and yellow disk florets.

Cautions

May cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to Asteraceae family.

Habitat

Coastal areas, sea cliffs, shingle beaches, waste ground near the sea.

Harvest Instructions

Flower heads harvested when fully open.

Geographic Distribution

Native to coastal areas of Europe including Iceland, British Isles, and Scandinavia.

Growth Conditions

Full sun. Tolerates salt spray and poor, sandy soil.

Plant Size

20-60 cm

Effects on the Body

Similar to chamomile but milder. Calming, supports digestion. Less well researched than German Chamomile.

Active Constituents

Flavonoids, essential oil (smaller amounts than true chamomile), sesquiterpene lactones.

Safety Information

Dosage

Tea: 1-2 teaspoons dried flowers in hot water, steep 10 minutes.

Culinary Use

Can be used as chamomile substitute for tea.

Folklore & Historical Use

Named after Baldur, Norse god of light. Traditional use similar to chamomile.

Scientific Research

Very limited clinical research available. Related to chamomile but less studied. Contains flavonoids and essential oils. Traditional use for digestive complaints.