Names:

Matricaria chamomile (German chamomile), Chamaemelum nobile (Roman chamomile), Manzanilla

Description:

Chamomile is a delicate annual, with small white petals and with yellow centers. Has a strong aromatic almost apple-like scent. Typically chamomile can grow up to 2 feet tall and about 12 inches wide, though this can vary depending on variety. This herb can be taken internally as a tea, infusion, or tincture and can also be used externally as an essential oil. Chamomile has been known to support digestion it is also a well known herb that helps with inflammatory conditions, soothes skin irritants, and as a relaxant to promote sleep and calm the nerves. Though chamomile has been known to have its medicinal uses it is also know to be used as a fabric dye, used in cosmetics, and for aromatherapy. The history of chamomile dates back thousands of years in many cultures from the Middle Ages, Ancient Egypt, Ancient Greece and Rome, to present day. Chamomile is thought to be the physician's plant with many protective properties physically, emotionally, and even spiritually.

Cultivation:

Can be planted from seed, or by division. Seeding can be direct sowing in the garden in the fall or before the first frost. Seeds can also be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Seeds need light to germinate so do NOT cover them with soil. Division is usually most successful from established plants in the early spring when the new growth has started. Propagation can also be done by cutting especially if you take from the base of the plant and include a small portion of the rhizome which will help with root development. best time for cutting is in the spring from a non-flowering stem with good foliage. Using a root hormone of choice and adding to your soil medium you should begin to see roots within a few weeks. Chamomile prefers warm weather and can be sensitive to frost. They are not heavy feeders so minimal fertilization is needed. Plant hardiness depends on variety but can range from zones 3-9. Avoid planting with carrots, parsley, and parsnips these plants attract the pest that like chamomile. It has said that planting chamomile with mint can prevent mint from producing is aromatic fragrance

Light requirements:

Full Sun, some partial shade is acceptable

Soil requirements:

Well draining soil

Watering:

Once established chamomile can tolerate dry periods and only need watering during droughts

Harvest:

Harvest after blooms have fully opened

Dry flowers out of direct sunlight and store in an airtight container.

Parts Used:

Petals and Flower heads, Essential Oils

Herbal Actions:

Anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, carminative, nervine, Relaxant, soothes digestion, wound healing properties

Energetics: Cooling and drying

Medicinal Uses:

Used internally to relieve indigestion, nausea, reduce gas and bloating, and soothe stomach cramps. With its anti-inflammatory effects it can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body and may relieve some pain and swelling due to ailments and conditions such as menstrual cramps, skin conditions, and eve arthritis. Due to it sedative properties its been known to help improve sleep quality. Because it is a known relaxant it may help reduce stress and anxiety. Contains antioxidants that may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels which in turn promote heart health. With the anti-microbial properties chamomile was been used through history to promote wound healing by reducing inflammation, protect against infection, and increase collagen production.

Allies:

Grows well with other herbs such as basil, borage, and rosemary.

Because of its antifungal properties it make a great companion plant for most plant types

Cautions:

Those with an allergic sensitivity to the Asteraceae family should use caution as they may have a sensitivity to chamomile as well.