Melianthus Major vs Anthemis tinctoria

Striking South African shrub with toxic foliage historically applied externally for rheumatism, wounds, and inflammation despite its dangerous systemic toxicity.

Yellow-flowered chamomile relative used as natural dye and in folk medicine for skin and digestive conditions.

melianthus toxins, cardiac glycosides, terpenoids

flavonoids, anthemidin, sesquiterpene lactones, tannins

rheumatism topically, wound healing, snake bite antidote, skin inflammation

skin inflammation, digestive complaints, wound healing

topical anti-inflammatory, wound care

anti-inflammatory, digestive tonic, dye plant

External use only as poultice

2-3g dried flowers tea 3x/day

internal use absolutely contraindicated, pregnancy, children

Asteraceae allergy

cardiac toxicity if ingested, skin irritation

contact dermatitis