Pineapple Weed

At a Glance

Common name

Pineapple Weed

Scientific name

Matricaria discoidea

Family

Asteraceae

Region

North America / Europe

Plant part

Flower heads, Leaves

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Insufficient

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

A low annual with finely divided feathery green leaves and small rounded cone-shaped greenish-yellow flower heads resembling tiny pineapples; the flower heads are used.

Also known as: Disc Mayweed, Wild Chamomile, Rayless Chamomile

Historical Background

Pineapple weed has been a gentle European and North American wayside herb for centuries, its tiny pineapple-scented flower heads steeped into a sweet chamomile-like tea. Foragers and children alike enjoy this pleasant, calming, caffeine-free cup gathered from paths and disturbed ground.

Earliest recorded uses: European and North American folk traditions for centuries; a gentle chamomile-like wayside tea.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Sweet, apple-like, mildly chamomile, fruity

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Pineapple weed has a tradition as a gentle calming, digestive, and skin tea much like chamomile (its close relative); preclinical work shows mild antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory activity. Clinical evidence is insufficient; it is not a treatment for anxiety, indigestion, or any disease, though it remains a pleasant, foraged, caffeine-free cup.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.