Real chamomile is a valuable medicinal plant that can be used for various diseases. However, the active ingredient content and thus the quality of the dried chamomile depends largely on the correct harvest time, as the level of essential oils fluctuates greatly over the course of the flowering period.
When and how should you harvest and dry chamomile?
To harvest chamomile optimally, cut off the fully bloomed flower heads at the base of the stem three to five days after they open. Dry the flowers in a dark, warm and airy place or in the oven at approx. 30 °C with the door slightly open.
The optimal harvest time
The proportion of medicinally effective essential oils is highest around three to five days after the flower heads have fully opened. You can tell when the time is right, for example in wild collections, because most of the population has already opened the flowers, but some are still closed. Traditionally, chamomile flowers are harvested around St. John's Day on June 24th; according to legend, flowers picked on this day are particularly medicinal. Also collect on a dry and sunny day, preferably around midday. It shouldn't have rained for a few days beforehand.
Harvesting and preparing chamomile
Only the fully bloomed flower heads are harvested, which are cut off directly at the base of the stem with scissors or a sharp knife. In addition, you should only cut off clean and he althy flowers that do not look wilted. The very pressure-sensitive flower heads should be touched as little as possible and washing should also be avoided. Spread the flowers loosely on a large piece of newspaper in a dark, warm and airy place. An attic, a dry cellar or a garden shed are particularly suitable. Temperatures between around 20 and 27 °C are optimal.
Dry chamomile
If you don't have suitable options for drying your self-harvested chamomile professionally, you can alternatively dry it in the oven. However, set the temperature as low as possible, around 30 °C would be optimal. Do not close the oven door completely, but wedge a piece of cork or a wooden spoon between the door and the oven. In this way, any moisture that escapes can escape immediately. The flower heads should be turned several times while drying.
Tip
Another option allows you to dry the chamomile flowers hanging: Cut the stems and the flower heads on them whole, tie them together loosely and hang these bundles upside down in a warm, dry and airy place. It is also important that it is dark in this place, as solar radiation destroys the volatile essential oils.
