
     CHAMOMIL ==========================

     CULTIVATION:  ============ Chamomile is a  perennial or annual with finely
     cut fragrant leaves. Flowers consist almost entirely of yellow-white daisy
     like flowers.

     Chamomile  needs full sun, or a partly shaded location. The soil should be
     light,  sandy, and well drained. Sow seeds in spring after danger of frost
     has  passed. Germination time is about 1 week. Divide in spring or autumn.
     Take  3  inch  cuttings from side  shoots  in summer. Most chamomile seeds
     available  is  the  annual German variety.  For  a chamomile lawn or seat,
     plant  4-6  inches apart, otherwise plant  about 18 inches apart. Cuttings
     can be removed from the maturing plant and will root rapidly.

     Gather leaves anytime, and pick flowers once they are fully open. Dry both
     the flowers and leaves.

     CULINARY USES: ============== NOT USED AS A CULINARY HERB.

     MEDICAL  USES: ============= Chamomile is one of the best know herb, it is
     widely  available  pre-packed  in tea  bags.  It's  soothing, settling and
     calming  effect makes this tea a favorite in many homes. If you make a tea
     use  either the German, or Roman chamomile  and make sure the container is
     covert  while in use, or part of the properties of the plant will be lost.
     Boil water separately and then pour it over the flowers.

     Chamomile  may  be  of use to  aid  digestion, treat menstrual cramps, and
     reduce  inflammation  of skin and mucous  membranes. Drink 3-4 times a day
     for stomach or menstrual cramps.

     To  ease  cankers sore swish the tea in  your  mouth for 3 minutes. It may
     also  be helpful in dissolving kidney stoned, and may help protect against
     stomach ulcers.

     Research discovered that the herb stimulates the immune system's infection
     fighting  white blood cells. Chamomile oil applied to the skin reduces the
     time  it  takes  burns  to  heal.  Chamomile  may  help  cut  down  on the
     inflammation that accompanies arthritis.

     WARNING:   ========   If   you  are   allergic   to   ragweed,  aster,  or
     chrysanthemums, you may have a reaction to even one cup of chamomile tea.

     OTHER  USES:  =========== Chamomile helps  encourage  the growth of nearby
     seedlings  and  improves the condition of  plants.  The medicinal power of
     this  herb comes from the volatile oil  in the flower. Infuse and spray on
     seedlings   to   prevent   damping  off,   and   on  compost  to  activate
     decomposition.

     COSMETIC  USES:  ============== CHAMOMILE SHAMPOO  : Both this shampoo and
     the  conditioning  rinse  below  will bring  luster  to  lifeless,  out of
     condition  hair.  Make  the shampoo by  mixing  1  tablespoon of pure soap
     flakes,  1  ounce of crushed chamomile  flowers and 1 tablespoon of borax.
     Add  1/2  pint of boiling water and stir  until a froth has formed. Use as
     you  would  a usual shampoo, making sure  that  on the final rinse all the
     soap  is  removed. Add a squeeze of lemon  juice  to the last rinse for an
     extra shine.
