Chamomile - One Of The Oldest And Fragrant Herbs

Chamomile has been around for centuries. It is native to the Mediterranean area, and western Europe. The species has different varieties, and has and is known as one of the most beneficial medicinal herbs. Many years ago this herb were planted in gardens, and believed to help other plants stay healthy. In the Greek translation it means, "ground apple." The fragrance of the flowers has an apple scent. This is one of my favorite herbs to germinate, grow and dry. Notice in the close up photo, you can see the dried flower heads as well as the leaves.

Dried Leaves And Flowers

Close Up

There are two popular varieties that are grown all over the world today, German or Hungarian, and Roman or English. Both of these varieties will do well in full sun with just a little bit of shade. They can be sown directly into the ground in the early spring. The herb adapts to a variety of different soil conditions, and will thrive in well drained and moist soil. Both varieties can also be propagated by root division. I have germinated seeds in a greenhouse, and they have a good germination rate if the temperature is kept around 66 to 68 degrees during the winter months. You can also germinate indoors during the winter months.

German or Hungarian Chamomile is considered a hardy annual and matures to around 15 inches high. It is also known as Matricaria chamomilla. The highlight of the German or Hungarian is the delicate light green foliage along with white fragrant flowers. The plants will bloom usually around eight weeks after planted. One of the nicest aspect of this plant specimen, is they spread rapidly and will crowd out weeds. This specie attract bees and also some birds.

The Roman or English variety is a hardy perennial and low creeping. It makes a wonderful border as well as a ground cover. It is used widely in rock gardens as well as in pathways, in between stones or bricks. It can be mowed but it can become invasive, so it should be kept under control. The English or Roman variety is also called, "Anthemis Nobilis or Chamaemulum Nobile." The flowers are yellow and create a very natural look. Both Chamomiles are great accents with a variety of other plants.

Today this herb is grown from Europe, the Mediterranean, United States, Canada, and Argentina. Harvesting should be done when the flowers are open, as this is when they have the most aroma. You can dry or use them fresh. The dried leaves are most noted in making tea. In many European countries today, Chamomile tea is on the men. Its natural flavor is a favorite, and often preferred over a caffeine base tea. Both varieties are used in potpourri, and the oil adds fragrance to perfumes, cosmetics and certain blends of tobacco. This herb is a member of the Daisy family and even though the Gerber daisy is larger, there is some similarities in the flower structure.

There are many medicinal remedies made from this fragrant herb. If you are allergic to the daisy family, you should stay away from the herb. Always, check with a professional before applying or ingesting any natural ingredient. The herb is known to help with skin problems, such as stretch marks, wrinkles, and flaky scaliness. It is known to be one of the most soothing herbs for hyperactivity and headaches. This plant specie is the only member of the herb family that is known to help regenerate brand new liver tissue. It is great for allergies in the springtime. The German variety produces a component called Azuline. This component helps in the prevention of many different types of allergies.

Chamomile not only provides us with beauty, aroma, and an easy herb to grow and maintain, the specie plays a big role in many different medicinal benefits. This is a great herb in so many geographic locations and for any style ground or container garden.