Chamomile
This week we were greeted by cheerful white and yellow chamomile blossoms in the garden. I was pleased to find that the small patch I planted last season self-seeded and expanded in my medicinal herb bed.
Chamomile is considered a “nervine” due to its well studied calming effects. A recent RCT completed in 2016 found that long-term usage (daily use x 26 weeks) of chamomile extract resulted in significant reduction in symptoms for patients with moderate-severe generalized anxiety disorder when compared to placebo.
I enjoy growing, harvesting, and drying chamomile flowers for use in teas. It’s a mainstay in my “sleepy time” tea blend:
Chamomile Tea - makes 2 cups of tea
2 TBS dried chamomile blossoms
2 TBS dried spearmint leaves
1 TBS dried lemon balm leaves
Combine tea blend as above. Steep in hot water 5-7 mins and strain. Sweeten with raw honey to taste.