Since there are two unique varieties of chamomile, you’ll find their aromas also vary. German (Blue) chamomile, Matricaria recutita, has an herbaceous fragrance that is sweet, fruity, strong, and rich, while Roman chamomile, Anthemis nobilis / Chamaemelum nobile, smells like fresh apples.
Chamomile Essential Oil
Anthemis nobilis
Chamomile essence is extracted from the buds and flowers through the steam distillation process. Both varieties of chamomile are believed to have originated in Egypt, and they have an interesting history.
Chamomile is known as a strewing herb, which literally means that the herb itself was often used on floors to improve a dwelling’s scent back in medieval times, much like the fragrance diffusers we use today. This herb, like many others, made abiding in close quarters more tolerable, and in many ways made indoor living better all the way around.
Variations of Chamomile Oil
German (Blue) chamomile, Matricaria recutita, has a high concentration of azulene, which gives the essential oil its distinct royal blue color.
Roman chamomile, Anthemis nobilis, essential oil can be light grey or pale blue in color, and it is used predominantly to heal damaged skin and in aromatherapy practices.
Benefits of Chamomile Essential Oil
One of chamomile’s most widely recognized qualities is its effectiveness during times of stress or anger. If you’ve ever had a cup of chamomile tea, then you know that both the warmth and the flavor are soothing and relaxing. Not surprisingly, this essential oil makes a wonderful choice when the world gets to be too much, or you just need to unplug and unwind.
Both varieties of chamomile are used to treat skin irritations, such as dermatitis and bug bites because of their anti-inflammatory properties, but you may be surprised to learn that they can help relieve nausea, gas, and vomiting as well as reduce the pain of sprains, PMS, and neuralgia.
Therapeutic Properties of Chamomile Essential Oil
Anti-inflammatory, Antispasmodic, Cholagogue, Digestive, Nervine, Sedative, Stomachic, Sudorific, Vasoconstrictor, Vulnerary
Research on Chamomile Essential Oil
Chamomile’s ability to treat a wide variety of internal and external ailments is quite extensive.
Clinical evidence has shown that azulene and bisabolol, which are both found in German (Blue) chamomile, have significant anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce acne outbreaks and even lessen fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of skin aging.
A study of 80 volunteers showed Roman chamomile to have both sedative and calming effects.
Precautions When Using Chamomile Essential Oil
Observe the standard safety guidelines when using Chamomile essential oil.
Chamomile can interact negatively with prescription medications and some medical conditions. Please review the following article before taking chamomile, and be sure to consult with your health care provider before using it.
Roman chamomile oil may also cause skin inflammation in some individuals.
Buying Chamomile Essential Oil
Typically, Chamomile essential oil sells for around $95 per ounce.
Recommended Sources for Chamomile Essential Oil
The following are reputable sources for Chamomile essential oils and extracts.
Roman Chamomile Essential Oil at From Nature With Love
Roman Chamomile Essential Oil at Mountain Rose Herbs
Blue Chamomile Essential Oil at Mountain Rose Herbs
Essential Oils Similar to Chamomile
Helichrysum, Lavender, GeraniumChamomile Blends Well With...
Any of the similar essential oils, plus Bergamot, Orange, Lemon, Sweet Marjoram, Neroli, Rose, Rosemary
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Sources
Essential Oil Safety
The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils
Essential Oils: A Handbook for Aromatherapy Practice
Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit
Aromatherapy and the Mind
The Aromatherapy Workbook