Chamomile

Chamomile has long been treasured as one of the gentlest yet most versatile herbs in the garden and the home apothecary. With its dainty daisy-like blooms, it offers beauty, medicine, and a touch of magic to any garden.

Parts used: The flowers are where the healing power lies. Pick in full bloom.

Properties: Calming nervine, digestive relaxant, anti-inflammatory, mild pain reliever, antispasmodic, antimicrobial.

~ Chamomile tea is a classic remedy for anxiety, sleep troubles, and indigestion. It helps ease stomach cramps, colic, and nausea, and can be especially soothing for children.

~ A cooled infusion works well as a compress for pink eye, inflamed skin, or minor wounds.

~ Chamomile baths or rinses can calm irritated skin and support relaxation, while steam inhalations may ease cold symptoms and congestion.

What I like best about Chamomile for beginner herbalists or home use is that it’s safe and gentle, yet effective.

Spring is the perfect time to sow chamomile seeds in the garden. German chamomile is an annual that self-seeds freely, while Roman chamomile is a perennial, spreading beautifully as a fragrant groundcover. Both love sandy, well-drained soil and full sun.

Ancient Egyptians dedicated Chamomile to the sun god Ra, believing it carried the warmth of the sun into the body. In European traditions, it was considered the “plant’s physician”, said to revive and protect any struggling plants grown nearby. My garden is always happy with a sprinkling of chamomile flowers about, and it's great for attracting beneficial insects into the garden.

One of my favourite ways to enjoy chamomile is to dry the flowers and make calming herbal infusions, a simple, fragrant tea that brings peace at the end of the day.

You'll learn more about growing & using your own medicinal herbs to create a homegrown apothecary in my latest book, to be published very soon.