Matricaria recutita
Family: Asteraceae
Annual, self-seeding. Native to Europe, Iran and Afghanistan.
Cultivated everywhere. This is the aromatic Chamomile of commerce.
The activity of the herb results from the interplay of many structurally
different compounds -- a fine example of how the whole herb is more effective
than any isolated constituent. Try Chamomile tea for gentle bedtime
sedation or for a stomach-ache. This is what Peter Rabbit’s mom gave
him after he indulged too freely in Mr. McGregor’s vegetables. You
can also make a hair rinse to bring out the highlights in blonde hair.
Just use the tea. Delightful! Cultivation: Easy.
Sow seed in fall, midwinter or very early spring directly in weed-free
garden bed or in greenhouse. Tamp well. Fast germination and growth.
Thin or transplant to 6 inches apart.
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