Journal

This is our first year growing Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile).  I have to sometimes go with the plants I can get locally and I got 2 plants from Ulriksdals Trädgård.  I generally have early seed starts for German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) and have many in the garden because they do self seed and return most years. Chamomile is an important herb for the whole family (the hydrosol is a key component in the bedtime ritual).

Today I was out weeding these low growing and delicate plants, which have recently burst into bloom, and I felt a real connection to them, a real relationship with them.  This is why I do this, to benefit from what the plants can offer, to celebrate the life and the natural healing.  The depth of the aroma of Roman chamomile is multifaceted,  floral yet green and rich yet light and gentle.  I could feel my breath deepen upon inhalation.  It made the most sense to distill the small harvest and creativity guided me to include a little lavender and a bit of fresh tulsi.  The result is a completely unique triple co-distilled hydrosol which is exquisite, and about 1 ml of essential oil (triple sourced).

Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), July 13, 2016

Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), and Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) ready for distillation

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is one of the most versatile herbs that we grow. Its anti-stress properties are apparent, whether it’s used a tea ingredient, a hydrosol, or an essential oil. We harvest lemon balm several times a year, dry a large amount for tea, and distill the rest.

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

Today was our first lemon balm distillation this year, and it filled the whole house with its uplifting, cheery aroma. Our 5-liter batch yielded about a liter of high-quality hydrosol.

Rose Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)

Co-distillations are always interesting; each combination yields something more than the sum of its parts. Today we distilled one of our favorite combinations: rose geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) and chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla). This is the kind of hydrosol that’s great for relaxation and all-around stress relief. Try it in a diffuser!

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)