This or That: Chamomile Essential Oils
Chamomile has been a presence throughout the lives of many, whether as a tea, tincture, or essential oil. Derived from the daisy-like flowers of the Asteraceae family, this herb has long been renowned for its healing and restorative abilities. You may have noticed that we offer two main types of the plant as essential oils - German Chamomile and Roman Chamomile.
Both varieties contain antibacterial, sedative, and analgesic properties, and can be useful for soothing skin, inflammation, and calming the digestive system. The major differences between these highly valued oils is evident in their strengths, chemical properties and physical makeup. Let’s take a closer look at these two delightful essential oils.
GERMAN CHAMOMILE
German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) essential oil is extracted from the flowers of the non-perennial variety of the Chamomile plant. It contains chamazulene, which gives the oil its distinctive dark blue color and anti-inflammatory properties. Thick in consistency, its aroma is herbal, sweet, and straw-like. It is ideal for use on sensitive or inflamed skin, as it promotes the regeneration of damaged skin tissue. German Chamomile can also be effective as a calming agent when inhaled or when diluted and applied topically, particularly for menstrual and menopausal symptoms. Try adding it to body butters or salves for use on sore tendons or injured ligaments.
ROMAN CHAMOMILE
With a sweet, herbaceous, more apple-like aroma, Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) is extracted from the perennial, low-lying ground cover and is ideal for incorporating into sleep blends. Unlike German Chamomile, this variation is high in esters and has a yellow, blue-tinted color. Due to its gentle, calming effect, it is an excellent option for use with children, and has been found to be beneficial for pregnancy and birth. This oil can ease allergy symptoms and may also relieve headaches, asthma and anxiety. Add 5 drops to a personal inhaler or diffuser during allergy season or times of stress.
What's your favorite Chamomile essential oil? Let us know in the comment section below!
About the Author, Jenna Jones
Jenna Jones is the Chief Marketing Officer of Edens Garden. Jenna’s background in journalism led her to investigate the world of essential oils, and what she discovered inspired her. She joined the team in 2016, spurring Edens Garden into a leading source for aromatherapy education.
This article was reviewed by our Lead Aromatherapist,
Bella Martinez is a Certified Aromatherapist, Natural Skincare Formulator and Edens Garden’s lead aromatherapist. An industry expert, Bella has spent years training and learning in the aromatherapy field, which she continues annually. Her passion is taking evidence-based aromatherapy and making it approachable for all.
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5 comments
Edens Garden
Hi Beth! You can learn more about the difference between German Chamomile essential oil and CO2 here: https://www.edensgarden.com/blogs/news/aaa-whats-the-difference-between-co2s-and-essential-oils
bethj
Please update this article including the differences between CO2 and steam distilled German Chamomile, not just German vs. Roman, THANKS!
Susan Everett Breton
This was an excellent article pointing out similarities and differences between these two chamomiles. Thank you. To Lynne Lott, who ordered Roman Chamomile to be used for diffusion with Lavender with a friend’s 5 year old autistic daughter: did this help in calming the young child? I have a 1-year-old great-nephew who has been diagnosed as autistic. I have bought sandalwood, which helps, but would like some other oils to switch out with that.
Lynne Lott
I’m ordering Roman Chamomile for a friend’s 5 yr old autistic/add daughter to be used in diffuser with Lavender.
Louise Dewey Spencer
October 29, 2021 at 9:53 am
Thank you for your lovely, informative articles. I simply cannot get enough!