Roman Bertram (Anacyclus pyrethrum)

Other names: Hildegard's spice, Roman chamomile, honeysuckle, silberkissen, acarkara, Spanish chamomile, Moroccan chamomile

Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)

The Roman bertram (Anacyclus pyrethrum) is an annual to biennial herb found in the Mediterranean, North Africa and the Middle East. It is also known by the names Hildegard's spice, Roman chamomile, ring-leaved chamomile, silberkissen, acarkara, Spanish chamomile or Moroccan chamomile. It is a plant with white flowers and fine silvery-green leaves that can grow up to 30 cm tall. Its root is used in traditional medicine for its medicinal and aphrodisiac effects and is known for its analgesic properties.

The uses of Bertram romaine are quite diverse and range from the production of medicinal preparations, to its use in the kitchen and the cosmetic industry. In gastronomy it is commonly used as a spice, where it imparts a unique spicy and slightly bitter flavour. In the cosmetics industry, it is used to make mouthwashes, toothpastes, lotions and other skin care products due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. In traditional Ayurvedic medicine it is often used as an aphrodisiac and tonic for the nervous system. Bertram Roman is also used in the production of certain herbal teas and tinctures for its medicinal properties.