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n. 1. An aromatic perennial herb (Chamaemelum nobile) in the composite family, native to Europe and the Mediterranean region, having feathery foliage and flower heads with white rays and yellow centers. 2. A similar, related Eurasian annual plant (Matricaria recutita). 3. The dried flower heads of either one of these plants, used to make an herbal tea and yielding an oil used in commercial flavorings and perfumery. [Middle English camomille, from Old French, from Late Latin chamomilla, alteration of Latin chamaemēlon, from Greek khamaimēlon : khamai, on the ground; see dhghem- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots + mēlon, apple.]  (click for a larger image) chamomileChamaemelum nobile |
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