Herb & Spice Companion

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HERB & SPICE COMPANION

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CHAMOMILE

Chamaemelum

Flavors: pungent, sweet, floral,

apple-like

Chamomile translates to “little apple” in Spanish and “earth apple” in Greek, pre-

sumably for the herb’s apple-like fragrance in the garden. While there are many

plants called chamomile, the two used most often as an herb are German chamomile

(Chamaemelum matricaria recutita) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile),

both bearing flowers that look like dai-

sies. Dubbed “the plant’s physician,”

chamomile makes a great companion

plant in the garden, as it repels pests

and supports the health of neighboring

herbs and veggies.

Best known for its soothing quali-

ties in teas, chamomile can be added to

all kinds of beverages for similar effect

and floral flavor, including lemonades,

smoothies, and liqueurs. It’s also a pop-

ular herb in aromatherapy and a feature

ingredient in many cosmetics, includ-

ing soaps, hair products, lotions, and

herbal baths.

In the Garden

Roman and German chamomiles grow in similar conditions and will both thrive in

containers. The Roman variety is a perennial that grows close to the ground, with tiny

daisy-like flowers and sweet, spindly foliage. German chamomile is an annual that

sprouts upright to about 1 or 2 feet, growing larger daisy-like flowers.

HEALTH BENEFITS

Chamomile tea is a timeless

remedy for digestive upset, nausea,

sleeplessness, and the common cold.

Its calming effects can alleviate

symptoms of stress and anxiety,

including nervous stomach, ulcers,

and headaches or migraines.

Chamomile also serves as an

antispasmodic, taming both intestinal

cramps and menstrual cramps as well

as relieving gas and bloating.

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