Chamomile is one of those staple herbs that can be found in nearly everyone’s pantry. It is most commonly used as a tea but has other more magical uses.
I’ve never had much luck growing chamomile. I’ll admit that I’ve never put much effort into it either. I’ve tried a half a dozen times to start it from seed with very poor, if any, results. Seriously, I’ve only grown plants twice! This doesn’t mean I’ve given up entirely. I’m determined to master this.
The First Choice
There are two different kinds of chamomile available. The first is Roman chamomile – (Chamaemelum Nobile or Anthemis Nobilis). This one is called the true chamomile. It’s a low growing perennial ground cover with little daisy-like flowers. It’s rather hardy and can handle foot traffic.
The second is German Chamomile (Matircaria recutita) that grows upright stalks about 1-2 feet tall. It’s daisy like flowers are slightly smaller. This kind is a re-seeding annual and the type that I’ve always tried (and failed) to grow.
Growing Guide
Seasoned gardeners will tell you that it’s easier to grow from propagation and that it is also possible to start from seed. I have not had much luck with seeds. The two types of plants are different but they have the same growing needs and uses so the real question is do you want ground cover or taller plants?
To start from seed in the spring, sprinkle the seeds on top of the soil since they need light to germinate. The seeds are microscopic. It looks like yellow dust. You’ll wonder if there are even seeds in the dust. Next, I suggest you pray to the Gods of Spring that there are seeds and that they take root. The Gods have not been kind to my chamomile dreams so Good Luck!
Chamomile does best in cool weather and partial shade. However, they are able to tolerate full sun once their roots are established. Chamomile is considered drought resistant and repel pests. In fact, chamomile is often used as companion plants in vegetable garden for this reason.
The plants will need to be watered during prolonged droughts. This is because they become susceptible to pests such as aphids and mealy worms when they ‘re stressed.
Chamomile prefers dry well drained soil and does not need fertilizers.
Harvesting Chamomile Flowers
Harvesting is relatively easy. The flowers are the only parts to harvest. Pinch off the flower heads that are fully opened. It’s best to pick them in the morning right after the dew has evaporated. This is when the essential oil is at it’s peak.
Preserving
Let the flower heads dry on a tray in a single layer in a dark well ventilated place for 1-2 weeks. I would be hesitant to use heat because I feel like that would destroy the oils and diminish the flavor. Store in an airtight jar away from heat and light. Use within 6 months; after that the flavor diminishes.
Medicinal Uses
Medically speaking, chamomile has been around for a long time and has still has many uses today. Chamomile was used in ancient Egypt to treat malaria and other ailments. It was also one of the herbs used in the mummification process.
Today, Chamomile tea is offered to relieve stomach issues such as indigestion, gas, diarrhea, and colic. It’s also given to relieve stress, headaches, and aid in sleep.
Magical Properties of Chamomile
Uses
- Plant Chamomile around your property to ward off negative energies.
- Wash your hands with chamomile tea to ensure good luck at games of chance.
- Carry the dried flowers in your pocket or in a sachet for general good luck.
- Steep flowers in hot water to make a tea. Sprinkle the tea around ritual circles as a metaphysical barrier to keep negative energies away. This is especially helpful when to banishing work.
- Crush dried flowers with a mortar and pestle to add to incense for relaxation and meditation.
Blend chamomile with lavender for a restful night sleep.
Mix it with mugwort for prophetic dreams. - Alternately, you can add the herbs to a sachet or dream pillow without the need to burn them
- Use chamomile in Candle Magic. Roll a green candle in chamomile to boost money spells. Subsequently, you can add it to a black candle in banishing spells.
- In Glamour magic you can use chamomile tea as a hair rinse to brighten blonde hair.
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If you haven’t added chamomile to your apothecary cabinet, I highly suggest it. Unfortunately, I don’t offer it in my shop, yet. Next year I’ll be on the look out for some roman chamomile to add to my landscaping project. Hopefully, I’ll have better luck and a healthy crop to offer everyone.
In the meantime, I’ll keep ordering my chamomile online.
This is what I keep on hand. The dried herbs are great for tea and dream pillows. I use the essential oil when I make candles and anointing oils.
Dream Pillows and Book of Shadow Pages
I use Chamomile in Dream Pillows and I’ve decided to start offering them in our Etsy shop. You can Read more about that here.
You can find a small collection of Pillows here.
And as always, I have a page for you to download and print out for your Book of Shadows.
Disclaimer: All information herein is from traditional or historical reference and intended to help you make an informed decision. No herbal product is intended as a substitute for competent medical care.
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