The daisy might seem like a simple flower—something cheerful blooming by the roadside or dotting a summer meadow—but behind those familiar petals lies one of the most abundant and powerful plant families in the world. Known botanically as the Asteraceae, this family is home to a staggering diversity of species: from humble weeds to cherished medicinal herbs, nourishing vegetables to vivid garden favourites (1)(2).

What unites them all, however, is their intricate floral structure—a dense cluster of tiny florets cleverly arranged to mimic a single blossom. Often ringed by showy “petals” that are actually individual flowers, this clever construction is part of what makes the family so successful and widespread. Moreover, it also speaks to a deeper herbal truth: in the Daisy family, there is always more than meets the eye (2)(4).

For herbalists, the Asteraceae offer a wellspring of support. These are the plants we turn to for healing wounds, calming the gut, brightening the skin, and lifting the spirits. Some are cooling and bitter, others sunny and aromatic, and many are steeped in centuries of traditional use. Whether you are sipping chamomile tea, infusing calendula oil, or scattering yarrow in a midsummer ritual, you are working with the everlasting wisdom of this generous botanical lineage (5, 6, 10).

In this post, we will explore the herbal, historical, and ecological gifts of the Daisy family—unfolding their petals one by one to discover the potions within 🌼.

Botanical Profile:

• • Scientific Name: Asteraceae (also known as Compositae) (1)(2)

• • Genera: Over 1,600 genera (1)(2)

• • Species: More than 23,000 species worldwide (1)(2)

• • Appearance: Characterised by composite flower heads made up of central disk florets, surrounded by petal-like ray florets; leaves vary widely but are often lobed or hairy (2)(3)(4)

• • Growing Conditions: Prefer full sun, well-draining soil, and moderate watering; thrive in temperate regions globally (3)(7)(8)

• • Native Regions: Widespread across Europe, North America, Asia, and parts of Africa (2)(8)(9)

Historical Overview

The Daisy family (Asteraceae) has long been entwined with humanity’s healing practices, culinary traditions, and spiritual symbolism. From the banks of the Nile to Native American plains, from monastery gardens to modern herbal clinics. These plants have held enduring and evolving roles in both folk traditions and formal medicine.

Ancient Times

In the ancient world, several Asteraceae plants were not only staples in daily healing but also deeply symbolic in spiritual and cosmological systems.

Egypt (c. 1500 BCE):

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) historically held a revered place in ancient Egyptian medicine and religion. Dedicated to Ra, the Sun god, it was believed to channel solar vitality and healing. Physicians used chamomile to treat fevers, menstrual pain, and inflammation. Its fragrant flowers were also used in embalming oils for the deceased. Similarly, Calendula (Calendula officinalis), with its sun-like golden blooms, was another cherished plant—its petals were strewn in temples as offerings to the gods, symbolising purity and the life-giving power of the Sun. Calendula oils and salves have long been used to treat wounds and skin irritations, linking the plant to both sacred rituals and everyday healing (11, 12).

Ayurvedic India (c. 1000 BCE onward):

Although not native to India, several Asteraceae species naturalised early and were incorporated into the Ayurvedic tradition. For example, False daisy (Eclipta alba), also known as Bhringraj, has become a cornerstone herb in Ayurvedic formulations for hair and liver health. Celebrated for their rejuvenating effects on the nervous system and bodily tissues. Mugwort-like Artemisia indica was used to stimulate digestion and regulate menstruation. Chrysanthemum species, introduced later through trade, became popular ingredients in cooling teas traditionally used to reduce fevers and support eye health. Overall, these plants were cherished for their power to restore clarity, vitality, and harmony to both mind and body (13, 14).

Greece (c. 400 BCE):

Greek physicians and philosophers valued the healing powers of nature, and plants in the Daisy family played important roles. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) was named for the legendary hero Achilles, who was said to carry it into battle to staunch wounds—a story that reflects its traditional use for bleeding and injury. Moreover, Hippocrates prescribed it for fevers and digestive complaints, and it was also used in poultices for varicose veins and menstrual discomfort. Artemisia species, such as mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris), were associated with Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, childbirth, and the moon. These plants were used to regulate menstruation, ease childbirth, and enhance dreams—thus bridging practical healing with ritual and myth (15, 16).

Rome (c. 100 BCE – 200 CE):

Roman medicine, influenced by Greek traditions and expanded through military conquests, incorporated many remedies derived from the Asteraceae family. Galen prescribed yarrow, chamomile, and calendula for inflammation, indigestion, and women’s health concerns. Furthermore, Calendula was also a favoured culinary and cosmetic ingredient—its petals used to colour cheese and brighten stews. Its infused oils soothed skin irritations. Mugwort and wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) are featured in herbal wines and digestive tonics, which were believed to invigorate the body and dispel melancholy. The Romans also cultivated costmary (Tanacetum balsamita), a mint-scented daisy relative valued for its gentle laxative and calming properties (17, 18).

Medieval and Renaissance Europe

During these eras, the herbal wisdom of the Daisy family was preserved, adapted, and richly layered into both scholarly medicine and folk tradition. From cloistered gardens to bustling apothecaries, Asteraceae plants served as medicine, symbolism, and spiritual tools throughout Europe’s complex historical shifts.

Medieval Europe (c. 500–1400 CE):

Following the fall of Rome, monasteries became increasingly vital repositories of herbal knowledge. Within the tranquil refuge of secluded gardens, monks and nuns carefully cultivated a diverse array of medicinal plants, including many from the Asteraceae family. Chamomile was particularly beloved, not only for its sweet scent but also for its gentle calming properties. Specifically, it was commonly used to reduce fevers, relieve digestive issues, and soothe melancholic humours. It also appears frequently in monastic herbals such as Hortulus by Walafrid Strabo. Its fragrant flowers were scattered on floors and burned to cleanse the air in sickrooms and sacred spaces (19, 20).

Yarrow, known during this period as “herba militaris,” thus continued its legacy as a wound herb. Fresh leaves were applied to bleeding wounds, while decoctions helped reduce inflammation and treat fevers. Whether in rural areas and battlefield tents alike, yarrow remained a trusted ally. Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) walked a fine line between remedy and caution. It was used to expel worms, regulate menstruation, and flavour lenten foods—its bitter leaves signalling seasonal transitions. However, knowledge of its toxicity in high doses was equally passed down, often orally (21).

Mugwort maintained deep spiritual and medicinal significance. It was associated with protective magic and seasonal rites—commonly burned at solstices, worn in garlands, or hung over doors to ward off evil. Medicinally, it supported digestion, eased menstrual cramps, and was known to bring vivid dreams when tucked under pillows. During this time, many Asteraceae plants were categorised by planetary rulerships according to the doctrine of signatures. Mugwort was ruled by the Moon, chamomile by the Sun, and tansy by Jupiter—an expression of the era’s belief in the harmony between celestial bodies and earthly healing (22, 23).

Renaissance Europe (c. 1400–1700 CE):

The Renaissance brought a renewed interest in classical knowledge and a flowering of botanical exploration. The invention of the printing press led to the widespread distribution of herbals, and the healing plants of the Daisy family entered both academic discourse and domestic practice.

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) became a favoured remedy for headaches, especially migraines, as well as hysteria and so-called “melancholic vapours.” In particular, it was often recommended for women’s reproductive health, and its connection to the planet Venus gave it symbolic resonance in balancing feminine energies. Calendula, with its vibrant golden petals, was traditionally used to cleanse wounds, soothe skin irritations, and aid digestion. Whether infused in broths or applied topically, it was a gentle yet potent household medicine (24, 25).

Costmary, also called “Bible leaf,” was commonly pressed between the pages of holy books, both for its balsamic scent and its use as a stimulant during long sermons. Its leaves were chewed to aid concentration, calm the stomach, and ease menstrual discomfort. Wormwood, known for its intensely bitter flavour, was employed to stimulate digestion and eliminate parasites. Although later infamous for its role in absinthe, during the Renaissance it was highly prized in apothecaries for its purifying properties (26).

This period saw the Daisy family’s influence expand beyond the garden and field. Notably, herbals like John Gerard’s Herball (1597) and Nicholas Culpeper’s Complete Herbal (1653) provided detailed descriptions, astrological correspondences, and spiritual associations for many Asteraceae herbs. These texts bridged traditional and formal medicine, ensuring that the healing wisdom of the Daisy family remained rooted in the European herbal tradition for generations to come (27)(28).

Indigenous Uses in the Americas

Long before European contact, Indigenous people across the Americas held deep and multifaceted relationships with plants from the Asteraceae family. Indeed, these herbs were woven into healing ceremonies, daily life, spiritual practices, and seasonal cycles.

For example, among Plains tribes such as the Lakota, Cheyenne, and Blackfoot, prairie sage (Artemisia ludoviciana)—a silvery, aromatic plant from the Artemisia genus—was traditionally burned as a cleansing incense, inhaled to ease headaches, or brewed into a medicinal tea. Its ceremonial use continues to persist today in sweat lodges, naming rituals, and seasonal transitions (28).

Meanwhile, in the Southwest, desert marigolds (Baileya multiradiata) and native sunflower species (Helianthus spp.) held practical and sacred significance. The Hopi and Navajo cultivated sunflowers for their seeds, oil, and vibrant petals. Medically, sunflower was used to treat respiratory issues, soothe inflammation, and serve as a diuretic. Symbolically, it represented life, fertility, and the Sun itself (29).

Among Eastern Woodland peoples like the Cherokee and Iroquois, boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum) was a trusted remedy for colds and flu, often used to “break” fevers and ease body aches. Boneset teas, strong and bitter, were drunk during times of epidemic and passed down through generations as a household medicine (29).

Modern Times

Today, the Asteraceae family gently weaves ancient wisdom into our herbal healing, effectively connecting timeless traditions with modern care and everyday self-nurturing rituals. As one of the largest plant families in the world, it offers a diverse pharmacopoeia that remains highly accessible, culturally rich, and scientifically supported.

For instance, chamomile remains one of the most consumed herbal teas globally, valued for its calming, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Supported by a growing body of research, it is warmly embraced in clinical settings to gently soothe anxiety, support restful sleep, and ease digestive discomfort. Chamomile extracts appear in natural skincare, baby care products, and formulations for menstrual relief (30, 31).

Calendula continues to shine brightly in both folk traditions and modern clinical use, cherished for its soothing touch on wounds, skin irritations, and inflammation. It features salves, tinctures, and cosmetics, with studies supporting its antimicrobial and tissue-repairing properties. Practitioners in herbal clinics often recommend calendula for post-surgical care, oral health, and eczema, blending traditional uses with modern protocols (31, 32).

Moreover, Artemisia species, especially Artemisia annua (sweet wormwood), have taken the stage in global health through the development of artemisinin-based antimalarial drugs. While this showcases the remarkable chemistry of the genus, it also invites us to consider the balance between pharmaceutical extraction and the healing wisdom of whole-plant medicine (32, 33).

Plants from the Asteraceae family, like dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) and burdock (Arctium lappa)—once written off as mere weeds—are now being rediscovered and celebrated for their liver-supportive, detoxifying, and nourishing benefits. They are found in wellness tonics, gut health protocols, and urban foraging guides (34, 35).

Ultimately, the Daisy family stands at the crossroads of tradition and innovation. Whether through clinical trials, home gardens, or farmers’ markets, Asteraceae plants continue to offer their gentle strength to those seeking connection with the earth. They remind us that healing is not only about biochemistry—but also about relationship, story, and place.

Overview of the Daisy Family

The Asteraceae, commonly known as the Daisy or Sunflower family, is one of the largest and most diverse families of flowering plants in the world. With over 23,000 species spread across more than 1,600 genera, it encompasses a wide range of forms, from humble wildflowers to important medicinal and culinary herbs. Notably, members of this family are distinguished by their characteristic flower structure, often composed of tightly clustered florets arranged in clusters that mimic a single flower. This unique inflorescence is not only visually striking but also an evolutionary advantage for attracting pollinators (36).

Many Asteraceae plants thrive in varied climates and habitats, demonstrating resilience and adaptability. Consequently, their importance spans ecological roles, ethnobotanical uses, and economic value, making them a foundational family in both natural ecosystems and human culture (37).

Quick Identification Guide

Recognising a member of the Daisy family can be straightforward with a few key botanical features:

• • Flower Heads (Capitula): The defining trait is the composite flower head, which looks like a single flower but is actually a cluster of many small flowers (florets). These heads often combine two types of florets:
    

     

    • • Ray florets: Usually arranged around the perimeter, resembling petals.
    • • Disk florets: Tiny tubular flowers clustered in the centre (36).

• • Leaves: Usually alternate or basal, and can vary widely in shape, often simple or lobed. They may be hairy or smooth depending on the species (36).

• • Fruit: Typically an achene — a small, dry, one-seeded fruit often topped with a pappus (modified calyx), which aids in wind dispersal (think of dandelion “parachutes”) (36).

• • Stem: Usually herbaceous but can be woody in some species, often with a milky sap in certain genera (36).

By focusing on the composite flower head and the presence of pappus-topped seeds, even novices can confidently identify Asteraceae plants in the wild or garden.

Growing Conditions

Asteraceae species are highly adaptable and grow in diverse environments worldwide, from temperate meadows to arid deserts and tropical forests. However, many share common preferences:

• • Soil: Most prefer well-drained soils but can tolerate a range from sandy to loamy. Some species thrive in poor, disturbed, or rocky soils, showcasing their resilience (37).

• • Light: Full Sun is ideal for many daisies and sunflowers, maximising flowering and growth. Some species tolerate partial shade, especially under woodland edges (37).

• • Water: Most members thrive with moderate watering, though some—like Artemisia species—are drought-tolerant, while others, such as certain Chrysanthemum cultivars, prefer a bit more moisture. (37)

• • Temperature: Hardy across temperate zones, many are perennials that die back in winter but regrow in spring. Others are annuals or biennials, completing their life cycle quickly (36,37).

These adaptable growth habits make the Daisy family popular in both wildflower mixes and cultivated gardens. Their robustness supports ecological restoration and pollinator habitats (37).

Environmental Impact

The Daisy family plays significant roles in ecosystems, agriculture, and human environments:

Positive Impacts:

• • Pollinator Support: The dense clusters of florets provide abundant nectar and pollen, attracting a wide array of pollinators including bees, butterflies, and birds. This supports biodiversity and crop pollination (36, 37).

• • Soil Stabilisation: Many Asteraceae species, including dandelions and yarrows, easily take root in disturbed soils, where their extensive root systems help prevent erosion and enrich the soil structure. (37)

• • Medicinal and Edible Plants: Several species offer nutritional and medicinal benefits, supporting human health and sustainable foraging (39).

• • Ecological Restoration: Fast-growing species such as sunflowers and some thistles are often employed to restore degraded landscapes and help clean up contaminated soils through phytoremediation. (37)

Negative Impacts:

• • Invasiveness: Some Asteraceae members, such as spotted knapweed (Centaurea stoebe) and certain thistles, are aggressive invaders outside their native ranges, outcompeting local flora and disrupting habitats (38).

• • Allergenic Potential: Pollen from many daisies can trigger allergies, with ragweed (Ambrosia spp.) being especially notorious for causing seasonal hay fever. (38)

• • Toxicity: A few species contain compounds toxic to livestock or humans if misused, such as tansy and certain Artemisia species (39).

Understanding these dual roles helps in managing their presence responsibly in both wild and cultivated settings.

Common Herbs from This Family & Their Uses

The Asteraceae family includes many well-known herbs prised for their medicinal, culinary, and aromatic properties, with a long history of traditional use across cultures. In herbal practice, these plants are prepared in diverse ways to maximise their therapeutic benefits, often utilising whole flowers, leaves, or roots depending on the species and intended purpose.

Top Medicinal Herbs from This Family

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla / Chamaemelum nobile)

Chamomile is one of the most celebrated members of the Daisy family, renowned for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. Typically, the dried flower heads are commonly used to prepare soothing teas that aid digestion, relieve anxiety, and promote restful sleep (49,50). It also has gentle antiseptic properties, making it useful for soothing skin irritations and treating minor wounds. (40)

Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea and related species)

Echinacea is widely valued for its immune-boosting effects. Traditionally, herbal preparations made from the roots and aerial parts are used to prevent and treat colds, flu, and other upper respiratory infections. Scientific studies support its role in modulating immune responses and reducing symptom severity (40).

Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Also known as pot marigolds, calendula flowers are cherished for their soothing, wound-healing, and anti-inflammatory properties when applied externally. Ointments, salves, and infused oils made from these plants can gently soothe skin troubles like eczema, minor burns, and rashes. In addition, Calendula finds use as a gentle internal herbal tea for digestive support (41, 42).

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Yarrow has a rich traditional use as a wound herb, earning the nickname “soldier’s woundwort.” Specifically, it promotes blood clotting, reduces inflammation, and assists in tissue repair. Internally, yarrow is used for menstrual regulation, digestive support, and fever reduction. The herb’s bitter compounds stimulate appetite and bile flow, enhancing digestion (42, 43).

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium)

Well-known for its role in warding off migraines, feverfew’s active compounds, including parthenolide, help calm vascular inflammation and spasms. It’s traditionally taken as dried leaf capsules or teas. However, caution is advised, as feverfew can cause mouth ulcers or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals (44).

Arnica (Arnica montana)

Arnica is primarily used externally for bruises, sprains, and muscle soreness due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Therefore, it should never be ingested due to potential toxicity; instead, it’s widely applied as creams or gels for topical relief (45).

How These Herbs Were Prepared and Used

Infusions and Teas

Infusions made from dried flowers, such as chamomile and calendula, are among the most common preparations. These gentle extracts preserve volatile oils and flavonoids that contribute to their calming, anti-inflammatory, and digestive effects. For example, chamomile tea is a staple remedy for anxiety and insomnia, whereas calendula infusions support skin and digestive health (46,47).

Tinctures and Extracts

Tinctures—alcohol-based extracts—are especially popular for herbs like echinacea and feverfew, mainly because their key compounds are more effectively drawn out with alcohol. Because they are so concentrated, these forms let you dose accurately and last much longer on the shelf. Echinacea tinctures are frequently used to stimulate immune function during cold and flu seasons. (47)

Topical Applications

Several Daisy family herbs, including arnica, calendula, and yarrow, are often applied externally as salves, ointments, or infused oils. These preparations leverage their anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and tissue-healing properties to treat bruises, wounds, skin irritations, and muscle pain. Notably, infused oils made by gently soaking flowers in carrier oils have long been the heart of traditional topical remedies (48,49).

Poultices and Compresses

Poultices—fresh or dried plant material mashed and applied directly to the skin—are a traditional method for herbs like yarrow and arnica. This form delivers active compounds directly to inflamed or injured tissue, promoting healing and pain relief (49).

Capsules and Dried Leaf Powders

For herbs with systemic effects, such as feverfew, standardised dried powders or capsules are used, often for chronic conditions like migraine prevention. These preparations allow for controlled dosing and ease of use (49).

Conclusion:

The Daisy family, with its rich diversity and widespread presence, holds a special place in both herbal tradition and modern botanical study. From gentle chamomile, which soothes restless minds, to bright calendula, which helps wounds heal, these plants offer a wonderful range of healing and everyday benefits. Their characteristic flower structure not only makes them easily identifiable but also highlights their ecological importance as pollinator-friendly species.

While their adaptability allows them to thrive in various environments, it is crucial to recognise the dual impact they can have—supporting biodiversity in some ecosystems, yet occasionally becoming invasive in others. Understanding their growing needs and environmental roles helps us appreciate the balance required to cultivate these herbs responsibly.

Ultimately, the Daisy family exemplifies the synergy between nature’s beauty and its healing power, inviting herbalists and plant enthusiasts alike to explore, respect, and utilise these botanical treasures with care and knowledge.

STAY CONNECTED WITH NATURE

“In every leaf, a remedy. In every remedy, a story.” 🌿