Plant of the Month
Chamomile
Roman Chamomile (anthemis nobilis) makes an excellent lawn substitute and is useful for planting between stepping-stones. The more it’s trodden on the more it grows.
It’s sometimes called ‘the plant’s physician’ as it improves the condition of other plants growing nearby.
Plant chamomile near swimming pools, barbeques and other outdoor entertainment areas because mosquitoes, midges and other annoying insects do not like its smell.
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) (German or Blue- usually used for tea) is not usually used as a culinary herb but the small white, yellow centred daisies are used to make a soothing relaxing tea.
The Medline Plus database maintained by the US National Library of Medicine lists over 100 separate ailments which chamomile has been traditionally used to treat.
Cardiovascular conditions, common cold, diarrhoea, eczema, gastro intestinal conditions, haemorrhoids, colic, wound healing, sleep aids are areas in which there may be some promising research.
However, no medicinal or therapeutic use of chamomile in extract, ointment or infusion has been sufficiently studied to recommend, although studies, which have been conducted in vitro and in animals, have been promising.
Medline Plus and the National Centre for Complementary and Alternative Medicine caution of rare allergic reactions, skin rashes, drowsiness, the potential to stimulate the uterus leading to abortion, interactions with other herbs and medicines with chamomile has not been studied.
Chamomile is a relative of ragweed and can cause allergy symptoms in some people. It also contains coumarin and should not be used if taking blood thinners. It is not recommended for pregnant or breast feeding women.
Chamomile Tea
1 cup of water
5-6 chamomile flowers
Honey
Bring the water to the boil, and then add the flowers. Leave to infuse for 5 minutes. Strain and add honey to taste. Do not add milk or cream.
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