Chamomile tea has long been drunk for its soothing benefits but brewed with fresh blooms, it tastes, smells, and is, simply wonderful!

So what are the potential health benefits associated with drinking chamomile tea?

Relaxation and Sleep:

Chamomile tea is commonly consumed for its calming properties. It contains an antioxidant called apigenin, which may bind to certain receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and potentially aiding in better sleep.

Digestive Health:

Chamomile has been traditionally used to support digestive health. It may help relieve symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and gastrointestinal spasms. Some studies suggest that chamomile tea may have anti-inflammatory effects on the digestive system.

Anti-inflammatory Properties:

Chamomile contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, such as flavonoids and terpenoids. These compounds may help reduce inflammation in the body and provide relief from conditions like arthritis, sore throat, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Immune System Support:

The antioxidants found in chamomile tea, including flavonoids, may help strengthen the immune system and protect against oxidative stress. Regular consumption of chamomile tea may contribute to overall immune health.

Skin Health

Chamomile has been used topically for centuries due to its potential anti-inflammatory and soothing effects on the skin. Drinking chamomile tea may also provide some benefits for the skin, such as reducing redness and irritation.

Antioxidant Properties:

Chamomile tea contains antioxidants that help combat free radicals in the body. Antioxidants protect cells from damage, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases and supporting overall well-being.

Please note: it is important to note that while chamomile tea is generally considered safe for most people, individual reactions and sensitivities may vary. It is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional, particularly if you have any existing medical conditions or are taking medications, to ensure chamomile tea is suitable for you.

How to Make Chamomile Tea

Simply snip off the flowers with as short a stem as possible. Pop around four tablespoons of flowers into a jug and pour over 200ml of boiling water. Leave it to steep for five minutes, then strain into your cup, find a spot in the garden, relax, and enjoy!

How to Grow Chamomile

Chamomile is super-easy to grow from seed. ‘German’, ‘Roman’, or ‘Wild’ are the ones most suitable for tea-making.

Using a pot at least 30cm in diameter, fill the pot three quarter full of compost, sprinkle a pinch of chamomile seeds evenly over the surface, then add a centimetre of compost over the top of the seeds. Water the pot gently, and position it in a sunny spot. Keep the soil moist, but not wet.

If all the seedlings germinate, pull out the weaker ones to allow a little more room for the others to grow on, and in a few short months, you will be brewing your own cup of the finest chamomile tea.