Chamomile (Camaemelum nobile)
Flowers: June to October. Height: Up to 30cm (12in).
Associated with St Anne, mother of the Virgin Mary and was one of the nine sacred Anglo-Saxon herbs. Its oil was used to perfume baths and the gentle aroma of its leaves, when crushed, made it a popular strewing herb.
Medicinal: With anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, it has been used since ancient times to treat wounds for fighting bacteria and fungal infections. As a sedative, it was good for headaches. Culpeper’s Complete Herbal (1653) stated that “it easeth all pains of the cholic and stone, and all pains and torments of the belly”. Chamomile tea, infused with Dittany of Crete, Scabious and Pennyroyal, was a preferred medieval remedy against poison and also known for its soothing and relaxing properties.
Culinary: Used as a tea and to flavour beer.
Magic & Myth: A component in medieval love potions to attract love. It was also used to prevent nightmares.
