Chamomile Tea

No doubt at some time in your life you have probably tried chamomile tea.   Chamomile has a pleasant, slightly sweet flavor similar to apples.  It is legendary in herbal lore as being good for helping one relax and sleep.  I certainly believe this to be true!  There is nothing more relaxing than a warm cup of chamomile tea sweetened with honey at bedtime. 

You can buy chamomile tea bags at the grocery store, but it is easy to grow at home.  I grow it in large pots on the patio.  Here is this year's crop of chamomile.

Chamomile is a pretty bedding plant.  Notice the fern-like foliage and the tiny flowers.  It is the flowers that are used to make the tea.  You can pick them and dry them for later use.  Or, you can use them fresh.  It is this last method that I use most of the time. 

Just pick the flowers and put them in your cup.  Then pour boiling water over them.  Like this:

Let the tea steep for a few minutes.  Then, using a spoon, scoop out the flowers and throw them in your compost bucket.  Add some honey and enjoy.  Chamomile tea is a wonderful way to end your day.