Peter, that legendary rabbit who stole into Mr McGregor’s garden and ate himself sick before being discovered and chased out, was given a cup of chamomile tea by his mother when he got home.

The rationale which held good then is still relevant today: chamomile is a good tea for the nerves, sleepless nights and gas. The herb – good sedative without harmful side-effects – aids elimination, is good for upset stomach, menstrual cramps, the promotion of natural hormones like thyroxine which helps in the rejuvenation of the texture of the skin, hair and nails. It also promotes youthful mental alertness and may be given to babies internally for colds and stomach trouble. Externally it’s a good gargle and useful in the treatment of inflammation and excema Orthodox medical professions recognise the plant as a valuable medicine.

Chamomile contains a high content of calcium and magnesium. It also has potassium, iron, manganese, zinc and vitamin A. There are claims that chamomile is a favourite drink of Queen Elizabeth 11.

Seventeenth century English hebalist Nicholas Culpeper recommended chamomile for fevers, aches digestive problems, pains, jaundice, kidney stones anddropsy.

Buckston Harrison is well known for his work as a herbalist, especially in western Jamaica. He resides in Sheffield, Westmoreland.