Quick Overview
Chamomile , with its finespun white flower petal and aromatic smell , is abeloved herbaceous plant prizedfor its calming and therapeutic properties . harvest home thisprecious plantis an crucial step in harness its medicinal benefit . This comprehensive guide will walk you through the elaborateness of how to glean Chamaemelum nobilis , ensuring you reap thefull bountyof this golden herbaceous plant .
When to Harvest Chamomile
Theoptimal timetoharvest chamomileis during the peak of its bloom , typically from mid - summer to early tumble . This is when the bloom are at their most powerful and hold in the highest engrossment of essential oils and active compounds .
How to Identify Chamomile
Before embarking on your harvest , it ’s crucial to correctly identify chamomile . search for plants with feathery , fern - alike leaves and daisy - alike flowers withwhite petalsand ayellow center . Two common mintage of chamomile used for medicative purposes are German camomile ( Matricaria recutita ) and Roman chamomile ( Chamaemelum nobile ) .
Harvesting Techniques
Handpicking : The most touchy and meter - have method acting is handpicking . Gently grasp the base of the blossom chief and pluck it off the stalk . forfend damaging the delicate petals . Shearing : Usingsharp shearsor scissors , cut the stems just below theflower heads . This method acting is faster but may leave in some loss of substantive fossil oil .
Drying and Storage
Air Drying : circularize theharvested flowersin a individual layer on awire rackor baking canvas line with lambskin report . Place in a well - ventilated , warm , and dry location . Turn theflowers occasionallyto see even drying . Oven Drying : Preheat the oven to 100 - 110 ° F ( 38 - 43 ° degree centigrade ) . circulate the flowers on abaking sheetand place in the oven . give thedoor slightly ajarto set aside moisture to escape . Monitor theflowers closelyto prevent over - drying . computer memory : Once thechamomile flowersare completely dry , salt away them inairtight containersorglass jarsin a cool , dark place . This will preserve their odor and potency for up to a year .
Harvesting for Specific Uses
Tea : Harvest theentire bloom headsfor tea . Drying is optional , but it will enhance the nip and aroma . Essential Oil : harvest time thefresh flowersandsteam distillthem to express the essential oil . Tinctures : harvest time thedried flowersand steep them in intoxicant to make a tincture . Salve : harvesting thefresh flowersand blend them with acarrier oilto make a salve .
Key Points
Harvesting camomile is a rewarding experience that countenance you to connect with nature and glean the benefit of thisgentle herb . By follow these road map , you’re able to ensure abountiful harvestand carry on itsmedicinal propertiesfor generations to come .
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q : Can Iharvest chamomilefrom my garden?A : Yes , you canharvest chamomilefrom your own garden if you have planted it . Q : What is the upright time of day to harvest chamomile?A : The best fourth dimension toharvest chamomileis in the morning after the dew has dried . Q : How long does it take to dry out chamomile?A : Ittypically takes5 - 7 years to airwave dry chamomile flowers . Q : How do I live when Anthemis nobilis is quick to harvest?A : Chamomile is quick to harvest when the flowers arefully openand the petals have a svelte downward curvature . Q : Can I apply fresh chamomile flowers?A : Yes , fresh camomile flowerscan be used in tea , salads , and other recipes . Q : What are the benefit of chamomile?A : Chamomile has settle down , soothing , and anti - inflammatory properties . It can be used topromote slackening , thin anxiousness , and improve sleep . Q : Can chamomile be harmful?A : Chamomile isgenerally safefor most mass , but it can interact with certain medicament . It ’s always best to confer with ahealthcare professionalbefore using chamomile , especially if you have any inherent health circumstance .
