Ways To Use Chamomile Essential Oil
Chamomile is one of the oldest and most widespread plants in the world and is used to induce rest, promote sleep, and calm the digestive system. Chamomile is widely used in the form of essential oils for aromatherapy and topical application.
Unlike some other essential oils, chamomile has been extensively studied and has been shown to offer a wide range of benefits in treating various conditions such as digestive problems, anxiety, insomnia, and depression.
What is chamomile essential oil?
Chamomile essential oil is obtained from chamomile flowers by steam distillation. Its medicinal properties are due to the high terpenoid and flavonoid content of the flowers. Terpenoids and flavonoids are chemicals whose effects include pain and anxiety relief, as well as antioxidant properties.
Chamomile essential oil is widely used for aromatherapy by diffusion or applied topically to the skin. Chamomile essential oil is also often added to bath water as a nighttime routine before going to sleep.
Chamomile is also widely used to make tea, lotion, shower gel, and shampoo and conditioner.
What is the difference between Roman and German chamomile?
There are two main types of chamomile: German chamomile and Roman chamomile. Roman chamomile is also known as English chamomile.
While the two types of chamomile are similar and have many uses in common, and are often used in combination, there are some important chemical differences and different uses to consider when purchasing chamomile essential oil.
German chamomile
The German chamomile, or Chamomilla recutita, is high in the natural chemical chamazulene, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. German chamomile smells earthy and sweet and is known for its effectiveness in relieving cramps and calming the digestive system.
Roman chamomile
Roman chamomile, or Chamaemelum nobile, is known for its calming properties, which may make it useful in treating anxiety and insomnia, although similar to German chamomile, it can also be helpful in relieving stomach cramps. Roman chamomile smells fruity and sweet.
Benefits of chamomile essential oil
Much research has been done on the benefits and effectiveness of chamomile essential oil.
How to use chamomile essential oil
For aromatherapy
Put a few drops of chamomile essential oil in a diffuser. Follow the diffuser manufacturer’s instructions for use. You can also diffuse an essential oil blend with chamomile for a holistic calm.
Current
Chamomile essential oil is used topically to help relieve pain, digestion, and anxiety.
Before applying chamomile essential oil to your skin, it’s important to dilute it with a carrier oil.
You can also add chamomile essential oil to your bath before bed to aid sleep and relaxation. You should dilute your essential oils with a carrier oil before adding them to your bath – otherwise the active ingredients of the essential oil will evaporate quickly and you will not benefit from the properties of the oil. For ease of use, consider a bubble bath with chamomile.
You can also purchase a sleep and relaxation lotion that contains chamomile for a simple soothing ritual.
Add chamomile essential oil to a hot compress and place it on your neck or back for pain relief and relaxation.
Is Chamomile Essential Oil Safe to Use?
Roman chamomile is a mild herb that is generally considered safe. However, as with any essential oil, some users are at risk of an allergic reaction.
To avoid skin irritation, do a spot test on your skin to test your reaction to chamomile essential oil. Add a few drops of chamomile essential oil to a carrier oil and apply it to a small area of skin on your forearm. If skin irritation such as itching, burning, or redness occurs, remove the essential oil with vegetable oil.
Never consume chamomile essential oil. Chamomile should only be consumed in forms specifically designed for consumption, such as chamomile tea.
It is important not to take chamomile before driving a car or operating heavy machinery as it can cause drowsiness.
Keep chamomile essential oil out of the reach of children or pets.
Pregnant women should be extra careful and consult their doctor before taking any form of chamomile, as chamomile has been shown to cause mild uterine stimulation.
Before taking chamomile, consult your doctor if you are taking other medications, as there are a number of drugs that chamomile is said to have adverse interactions with.
Best German chamomile essential oil
Best German chamomile essential oil overall
Gya Labs essential organic chamomile oil from Germany
An essential organic chamomile oil from Germany with a sweet herbal scent and low fruit notes, perfect for people who treat acne, soothe irritated skin, improve sleep and promote relaxation.
Sold by Amazon
Best German chamomile essential oil for the money
Artizen German chamomile essential oil
A German chamomile essential oil that is committed to using no adulteration or dilution to provide 100% natural essential oil. Uncompromising purity at a fraction of the price.
Sold by Amazon
Best Roman Chamomile Essential Oil
Best Roman Chamomile Essential Oil overall
Gya Labs Roman chamomile essential oil
100% natural Roman chamomile essential oil for relaxation, anti-anxiety and sleep. Herbal scent with a fruity, floral scent. Can be used topically with a carrier oil or diffused for aromatherapy.
Sold by Amazon
Best roman chamomile oil for the money
Artizen Roman Chamomile Essential Oil
100% pure, unadulterated chamomile essential oil for topical or aromatherapy use to promote calming. Comes with a satisfaction guarantee.
Sold by Amazon
Sign up here to receive the weekly BestReviews newsletter with useful advice on new products and notable offers.
Evelyn Waugh writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2021 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.
