I spent last week roaming through the orchard and excitedly plucking this always awaited special herb, pineapple weed. This little weed like plant is closely related to the Chamomiles, Mayweeds, and other weedy daisies. All share the same kind of foliage, but pineapple weed doesn't have the white ray florets in its flower heads that chamomile is known for. 

Matricaria matricarioides or wild chamomile is a favorite of my children as they love to gather it on walks, bruise it then rub it on their skin providing an effective insect repellent.

I love pointing out this jewel of a plant to people. It's similar to chamomile, but sweeter and milder. Pineapple weed is often used for stomachaches and flatulence because of its ability to expel gas from the digestive tract, and is often used as a treatment for diarrhea. This soothing nervine helps to calm the nerves as well as combat insomnia. It is well known as an antispasmodic, carminative, galactogogue, sedative, and skin vermifuge.

I recommend making a weak tea for children with colds, colic, and for teething. Children love the taste and smell which is always a plus when working with kids. When applied externally as a wash, it acts to hinder itching and soothe skin and scalp sores.

As always, please email any questions to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Jessica Morgan, M. H., Morgan Botanicals.

Disclaimer - The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. You should not use the information in this article for self-diagnosis or to replace any prescriptive medication. You should consult with a health care professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem, suffer from allergies, are pregnant or nursing.

Jessica Morgan, M.H.