How to Harvest Chamomile for Tea
The chamomile herb has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties such as calming muscle spasm, soothing digestive problems and helping to ease a troubled mind.
It also makes a delightful tea; not many people are familiar with how to harvest and make chamomile tea. This article will provide you with the necessary steps to make an aromatic and flavorful cup of tea.
Harvesting the Flowers
The best time to harvest chamomile is early in the morning when the petals are still closed. Use scissors or shears to cut just the flower heads, leaving some foliage to protect the plant and assist in flowering the following season.
Preparing the Flowers
Once you have gathered a few flower heads, it is time to prepare them for making a delicious cup of chamomile tea.
- Rinse: Rinse the flower in cold running water to remove any dirt or bugs.
- Sort: Sort the flowers to determine which are ready for the teapot.
- Store: Store the chamomile flower heads in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
Making the Tea
When you’re ready to make the tea, add one teaspoon of the dried flower heads to a teapot or cup. Pour one cup of boiling water over the flowers and let it steep for five to ten minutes or longer if desired. Once cooled to a desirable temperature, strain the mixture into a cup and enjoy.
With just a few simple steps, you can have a cup of chamomile tea that has many benefits. Enjoy!
