Growing Chamomile Indoors

It is so much more than just a fragrant tea

Everyone has heard of Chamomile. The German Chamomile, Matricaria recutita, is a native of Europe, and was brought by early settlers to North America. 

For centuries, its flowers and leaves have been brewed and drunk as a fragrant tea, and the health benefits of the tea have been significantly acknowledged. Ancient Egyptians used Chamomile herb as a universal remedy. Modern science is now proving that the ancient cultures knew what they were talking about. 

Researchers in England have found new evidence that the chamomile tea may actually help relieve a wide range of health ailments. Chamomile plant has been used as a remedy for calming the nerves and the stomach, and easing sleep. In addition to that it has a scent that can easily sooth your senses. Along with that, chamomile is also associated with style and elegance. Chamomile is pretty flower, has sweet smelling, daisy like flowers sit atop thin stalks and leaves. 

It is sometimes known as "the plant doctor", because it is thought to help the growth and health of many other plants, especially ones that produce essential oils. It is thought to increase production of those oils, making certain herbs, like mints (peppermint, sage, oregano) and basil stronger in scent and flavor.

Chamomile is one of those herbs that even beginners can grow and it is hardy through much of the globe. Growing Chamomile is really easy.

For best results adjust your gardening plans to Moon calendar

Culture  
The wonderful thing about this herb is that it's also very easy to grow. 

Seed Spacing             Push the seeds just below the surface at 1/4" depth, need light to germinate. 

Seed Germination      10 to 14 days.

Plant Spacing             Plants should be spaced 6" (15 cm) apart.

Soil Requirements      Generally tolerate a wide range of soil types, the ideal is a sandy soil. 

Sun & Lighting           Chamomile likes a sunny spot, but will tolerate some shade.

Water Requirements   It tolerates dry conditions but will bloom more freely if watered regularly. It will not grow if wet.

Learn new seeding tricks

Uses   

Chamomile relaxes muscle. Drinking chamomile herbal tea help to soothe muscle aches, spasms, stomach and back aches and also reduces menstrual cramps. 

Chamomile tea is an anti-inflammatory remedy that is used to treat skin problems such as acne, burns, stings, allergies, bruises, bites, etc. 

Chamomile tea calms nerves. Drinking chamomile tea helps to calm and soothe down feelings of anxiety, nervousness and depression. This herb is a nervine/sedative which can reduce nervous tension, nourish the nervous system and encourage sleep. 

Chamomile tea is often used against problems such as bloating, nausea, gas, irritable bowel syndrome or stomach pain. It is often known as a plant that strengthens the stomach. 

Chamomile tea boosts the immune system and fight infections related with colds. 

There is nothing more refreshing and soothing to the senses than to enjoy chamomile tea made right out of your own herb garden. Growing chamomile and drinking its tea not only benefits your overall health, but the scent of fresh chamomile can also enhance your senses. 


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