Chamomile (it is also spelled camomile) is the lovely herb with the daisy-like flowers.
There are two different kinds of chamomile used in herbalism: Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) and annual German chamomile (Matricaria recutita).
The German chamomile is more often used for herb tea because it is less bitter.
Both types of chamomile need well-drained soil and plenty of sun. The German chamomile is an annual plant and can become up to 60 cm (2 ft.) tall.
The Roman chamomile is low growing carpeting hardy perennial plant. The Roman chamomile can grow up to 30 cm (12 inches) tall. Both types have the beautiful daisy-like flowers.
In herbalism it is common to make tea with the chamomile flower. The flowers are also used to make essential oils.
Health Benefits
Chamomile tea is extremely popular worldwide. It is one of the most sold teas globally.
Chamomile tea has a relaxing effect on the nervous system. It is a wonderful tea to enjoy when feeling stressed.
Chamomile tea has great benefits for anyone suffering from insomnia. Drinking a cup of chamomile tea before bedtime will help you get a good night sleep.
Chamomile is known to soften your skin. After a stressful day try taking a bath with about four bags of tea water. This will help relieve tension and soften your skin.
Chamomile tea truly is an all-round comforter!
This tea will also contribute to ease nausea.
Many women drink chamomile tea to ease the pain of menstrual cramps.
Essential oil made from chamomile should not be taken internally. The essential oil is often used in hair products to lighten the hair or as a conditioner. Strong chamomile tea is good to rinse your hair with if you are blond. People with dark hair would be better off to rinse their hair with rosemary tea.
Warning: Pregnant women should not use any chamomile products as it has been known to contribute to a miscarriage.
Chamomile is one of the nine sacred herbs of the Anglo-Saxons described in Lacnunga. Lacnunga was written in 11th century in England. It contains the “Nine Herb Charms” verses, amongst others. Chamomile was during that time period known as “Maythen”. “Lacnunga” is Old English and can be translated to the word “remedies”.
Chamomile Lawn
Chamomile can be used as a lawn plant. Chamomile lawns were very popular in England during the Elizabethan era. Buckingham Place in London has a most prominent chamomile lawn which was established when George V (1865-1936) ruled.
Today the most common chamomile used in lawns is the Treneague which is a low-growing (5 -10 cm / 2 – 4 in. high) non-flowering chamomile. The charm of having a chamomile lawn is the lovely fragrance of the plant. It smells something like sweet apples. The word chamomile actually comes from the Greek words “chamai” and “melon” meaning ground apple.
Another obvious advantage is that you can just about omit mowing. Chamomile lawns are not suited for any climate. The perfect climate is that which is similar to the climate in England.
During the American Revolution the chamomile plant was nicknamed “the Whig Plant”. It was said that the more you stepped on it the stronger it grew. The patriots who were in favor of the American Revolution during that time in history were nicknamed “the Whigs”.
William Shakespeare included the chamomile in the play Henry IV:
“The Chamomile; the more it is trodden on, the faster it grows.” Henry IV, part 1
