Roman chamomile is a small perennial plant that covers the ground has a rich story throughout history. To the Egyptian god Ra, it was a symbol of omnipotence. To the Saxons, it was classified as one of the nine sacred herbs. During the Middle Ages in Europe it was used in strewing; scattered around or spread over an area as perfume.
Origins of Roman Chamomile Essential Oil
Roman chamomile is a member of the Asteraceae or Compositae family; in other words, it is a part of the daisy family. There are less than ten species of chamomile with German and Roman chamomile being the most popular and used for their health benefits.
The word chamomile comes from the Greek word chamomile which means ground apple because the herb grows close to the ground and smells like apple blossoms. Roman chamomile’s proper botanical name is Chamaemeleum mobile.
Roman chamomile is a perennial herb which means it lasts more than two years without having to replant at the beginning of each growing season; it continuous grows each ever increasing season, always reoccurring.
The plant itself is low growing, covering the ground, creeping along and spreading out as it grows. It has fibrous roots with stems that grow individually from the roots. The stems are hairy and covered with small feather-like leaves. The plant itself can grow to heights of up to 10 inches or 25 centimeters with small daisy-like flowers sprouting from the tops of the stems.
The flower itself is typically a small white flower with a yellow center, looks very similar to that of a daisy only slightly smaller in size and shape. The flowers can reach up to an inch or 2.5 centimeters in diameter.
The scent of Roman chamomile is delightful, having a scent like that of apple blossoms and sweet straw. It is the sweetest smelling of the chamomile family.
Roman chamomile goes by a couple of different names; English chamomile, true chamomile and common chamomile. This noble chamomile has been used for centuries because of its many healing properties.
Roman chamomiles rich history dates back to ancient Egyptian times. It is said that the god Ra used it as a symbol of his almighty power, while the Egyptian people offered it to the gods because of its healing properties in hopes it would cure acute fevers known at that time as Ague.
It was used by the Romans in a few different ways. They used it for medicinal purposes as well as in drinks and incense because of its aromatic and pleasant aroma.
During the 9th and 10th century the Saxons believed that there were 9 sacred herbs that could protect a person from disease and poison. They created a charm and a poem with instructions on how to use the herbs if poisoned or to heal infections. Roman chamomile was one of the 9 sacred herbs.
During the Middle Ages, Roman chamomile was used in strewing to help create a fragrant environment especially when people were gathering for celebrations. When walking upon the flowers, they would emit an intense yet pleasant fragrance that helped to set the friendly tone of the event.
It was also used during the Middle Ages in beer making due to its bitter taste, though it was later replaced over time by hops.
Roman chamomile is used today as a top essential oil due to its healing properties as well it is used in many food dishes and drinks.
Though Roman chamomile is now grown around the world it was originally native to southern and western Europe; where it is still mostly cultivated from and used in the production of essential oils.
Roman Chamomile Health Benefits
Roman chamomile is one of the most beneficial and diverse essential oils when it comes to your health. It can be used in many ways to deliver its health benefits to you that you desire. It can be taken orally, through inhalation or diffusing or topically. The possibilities of use are endless.
Roman chamomile is a powerful sedative and is commonly used for its calming and relaxing properties. It helps to soothe the body and mind while relaxing a person from within.
It also has potent anti-inflammatory properties which make it a significant muscle and pain relaxer and healer.
It has also been known to bring relief to people during allergy season by helping to reduce inflammation in the sinuses and helping soothing them as well.
Roman chamomile is excellent for helping to calm those consumed by stress helping to ease the nerves bringing calm and stability back to a person.
15 Uses for Roman Chamomile Essential Oil
Roman chamomile has many health benefits that make it an excellent essential oil to always have on hand. It’s no wonder the Saxon’s considered it one of the 9 sacred herbs.
- Allergy Fighter: Roman chamomiles anti-inflammatory properties along with its calming and sedative properties make it a perfect essential oil when it comes to allergies because it helps to calm and relax the body while reducing inflammation in the allergy flare-up location. It also helps to reduce redness in skin allergies while also helping to reduce the swelling and inflammation of the skin. Merely inhaling Roman chamomile essential oil can help to open the airways during allergy season.
- Anti-inflammatory: Roman chamomile has natural anti-inflammatory properties that make it create for reducing the pain and swelling associated with an injury such as muscle strain or wounds. It can not only help to reduce the pain and inflammation, but it can help to reduce the irritation and redness that may be present as well. By applying topically to the affected area will help to reduce swelling and bring relief to the city.
- Antioxidants: Roman Chamomile is high in antioxidants which help to rid the body of unwanted toxins and body damaging free radicals. By getting rid of the toxins, Roman chamomile helps to boost the immune system, decrease depression or other mood disorders, reduce pain and inflammation all the while helping to build healthier skin, hair, and nails. Try having some Roman chamomile tea and take in all of the antioxidant properties.
- Anxiety and Depression: Roman chamomile helps to promote stress reduction and relaxation in the body and mind which are commonly associated with anxiety and depression. Its sedation properties help the body and mind to relax helping to reduce the effects of depression and stress on the body and the mind. It helps to lift the spirit while creating clarity and focus in the brain. Also helps to reduce the feeling of hopelessness creating a sense of inner peace; helping to hear a person own real voice and not the fears that keep one isolated.
- Arthritis Aide: Roman chamomiles anti-inflammatory properties along with its sedation and calming properties greatly help with arthritis relief. Arthritis can be very painful and debilitating for many people, but by using Roman chamomile either topically or orally, it can help to reduce the pain and inflammation commonly associated with arthritis.
- Cold and Flu Aide: Roman chamomile helps to relieve the congestion commonly associated with colds and flu. It helps to fight the infection present as well as helping to reduce the mucus build-up in the chest and nasal passages. Not to mention the anti-inflammatory properties that are present in Roman chamomile also help with relieving congestion which therefore helps to increase the fighting power against the infection.
- Digestive System: Roman chamomile helps to relax the digestive system aiding in many common stomach ailments such as gas, acid reflux, indigestion, and nausea. It also contains properties that help to reduce spasms in the stomach such as cramping and constipation. By having a more relaxed mind and body, it can help to overcome many of the stomach ailments that may be present in a person such as IBS. In short, it helps to mellow out the stomach making it calm and relaxed to let everything flow as it usually should.
- Headache Aide: When used in a vapor form for inhalation Roman chamomile can help to relieve the pain and inflammation commonly associated with headaches. It also has a calming effect on the mind and body which will also help with headache relief. The sedative properties of Roman chamomile also help to induce sleep which can significantly help in relieving headache pain and inflammation. Try inhaling through a diffuser or inhalation stick to aide in reducing the pain and swelling of your next headache.
- Healthy Mouth: When it comes to having a healthy mouth including gums and teeth Roman chamomile can help. It helps to fight off unwanted bacteria in the mouth helping to reduce infection, cavities and gum problems. It also helps to reduce the pain and swelling that can occur for example after dental surgery, with a canker sore or toothaches. Try gargling with some water and Roman chamomile daily or weekly to help fight against unwanted bacteria in the mouth; to help promote a happy, healthy mouth.
- Insect Repellant: Bug spray and citronella is not for everyone. Try burning some dried Roman chamomile in an incense burner or a heatproof bowl next time you are outside enjoying the weather. It will help to keep insects like mosquitoes away from you and your friends and family next time you are all outside enjoying the great outdoors. Not to mention the pleasant smell that it gives off is more inviting to people than it is to those pesky insects!
- PMS Aide: Roman chamomile is supportive in helping to relieve PMS symptoms such as cramping. It helps to reduce the pain and inflammation commonly associated with PMS while helping to calm the body and mind during the hormone fluctuations that occur. Roman chamomile helps to overcome many of the symptoms of PMS assisting a woman to feel more comfortable and level-headed during this time of the month. Try having some chamomile tea or a bath with Roman chamomile essential oils to help reduce the pain, inflammation and mood swings commonly associated with PMS.
- Skin Care: Roman chamomile can help to heal the skin in many different ways. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it helps to reduce swelling that can occur with wounds and burns. It also helps to soothe and calm the skin as well. It can help to soothe diaper rashes and sunburns too, helping to speed up healing time while reducing the pain, inflammation and swelling in those affected areas. It can also help to treat and reduce the symptoms of eczema and bruises because of its soothing and anti-inflammation properties. Roman chamomile has also been known to assist in reducing signs of aging such as dark spots and fine lines. It can also help to reduce the symptoms of dandruff and fade scars naturally.
- Sleeping Aide: Due to Roman chamomile’s natural sedative properties it makes it a perfect essential oil to help with sleeplessness. Roman chamomile helps to relax and calm the mind and body helping to increase sleep; increasing the quantity, quality and depth of sleep. It helps to ease the mind-calming the brains function while trying to get to sleep reducing the overactivity that can occur while a person is trying to fall asleep; which means a person can fall asleep fast and stay asleep longer.
- Stress Aide: Roman chamomile’s natural sedative and calming properties make it perfect for helping to reduce stress. It helped to ease the body and the mind allowing a person to be more relaxed and focused on the task at hand instead of being somewhat scatter-brained while stressed. Reducing stress in a person can also help to induce a better night’s rest or sleep as well as helping to reduce anxiety and depression which can be associated with high stress individuals. This all contributes to promoting a more calm and relaxed individual who is more able to take on stressful situations with a level head.
- Would Care: Roman chamomile is excellent in aiding the healing of wounds. It helps to reduce inflammation and pain in the affected area while helping to speed up healing. It helps to soothe irritated areas while reducing redness. It also works as an antibacterial to help keep the wound clean and protect from infection.
Roman Chamomile Essential Oil Recipes
There are so many recipes and options to choose from when it comes to using Roman chamomile essential oil. With its ability to aid in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression while having sedative, calming and anti-inflammatory properties Roman chamomile is a fun essential oil to experiment with when it comes to recipes.
Depression, Stress and Anxiety Reducer Blend
Ingredients:
- 2 drops of Roman chamomile essential oil
- 2 drops of lavender essential oil
Directions:
Add the two fuel oils to a diffuser and diffuse throughout the home, especially at bedtime, to help reduce stress, depression, and anxiety while helping to induce a more restful sleep. You can also add the oil to an inhaler for on-the-go aide.
Calming Bath Bombs
Ingredients:
- 8 oz. baking soda
- 4 oz. citric acid
- 4 oz. corn starch
- 4 oz. Epsom salt
- ¾ tsp. water
- 2 tsp. Roman chamomile essential oil
- 2 tsp. lavender essential oil
- 2 ½ tsp. almond oil
Directions
- Combine all ingredients above and mix well.
- Press into a mold and let set/dry for at least 24 hours before use.
- Run a hot bath and throw a bomb in for a calming and relaxing bath.
Bedtime Pillow Spray
Ingredients:
- 3oz. witch hazel
- 10 drops Roman chamomile essential oil
- 10 drops lavender essential oil
- 5 drop wild orange essential oil
Directions:
- Combine all above ingredients in a dark glass spray bottle.
- Mix well.
- Shake before each use.
- Spray on the bed, pillows, and linens, before bedtime for a more calm and relaxing sleep.
Soothing Salve
Ingredients:
- ½ cup coconut oil
- ¼ cup beeswax
- 15 drops Roman chamomile essential oil
- 15 drops lavender essential oil
Directions:
- In a glass bowl combine the coconut oil and wax and melt over a pot of simmering hot water on the stove.
- Mix well.
- Remove from the heat and add the essential oil.
- Mix well.
- Pour into a glass jar and let cool/set.
- Apply to the affected areas, such as a burn, sore muscle or rash, as needed at least once a day.
Roman Chamomile Essential Oil Face-wash
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup liquid castile soap
- ¼ cup brewed chamomile tea
- ¾ tsp. carrier oil of your choice – such as grapeseed, almond or coconut
- 8 drops Roman chamomile essential oil
- several drops of vitamin E oil – optional
Directions:
- Brew a strong cup of chamomile tea and allow it to cool; setting aside ¼ cup that is needed for the recipe.
- Combine all the remaining ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
- Once the tea has cooled, add it to the mixture.
- Mix well.
- Pour mixture into a squirt or pump bottle. Be sure to mix well before each use. Use daily as needed.
Here are some other options to try with using Roman chamomile essential oil:
- Try adding a few drops to some hot water to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression or to help with sleep.
- Try adding a few drops to you lotion before bedtime to help relax sore muscles and help with sleep.
- Combine with some coconut oil and apply to sunburn to help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Diffuse with frankincense essential oil to help heighten your spirituality while meditating.
- To calm a small child add a few drops to their blanket or favorite stuffed animal.
- To help reduce motion sickness, inhale a blend of Roman chamomile, peppermint, lavender and ginger oil.
- Try adding a few drops to you facewash, moisturizer or shampoo and conditioner to help promote healthy skin and hair.
Side Effects and Cautions When Using Roman Chamomile Essential Oil
When it comes to using any essential oil be sure to do your research before use. You not only want to ensure you are purchasing from a reputable manufacturer and company but you also want to make sure of possible side effects or cautions when it comes to using the oil.
When it comes to Roman chamomile, there are no known toxic or irritants associated with the essential oil, so it is safe to use topically, though inhalation or diffused throughout the air. With this caution should always be used.
If you are going to be using Roman chamomile topically be sure to test the essential oil on a small area of skin prior to full application. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to dilute the oil before use.
Excessive use topically of Roman chamomile essential oil can lead to skin sensitization or over sensitivity to the skin caused by excessive or too much use of the essential oil on the affected area.
Caution should be used by those with already present seasonal allergies since Roman chamomile can induce the side effects of these allergies more. If you are allergic to ragweed or its relative’s caution should be exercised.
Caution should be used by those with hay fever, frequency hives or dermatitis as Roman chamomile can induce the symptoms of these ailments as well.
Women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant should use caution when using Roman chamomile as it can be a mild uterine stimulant which can cause problems for your unborn child.
What to Look For When Purchasing Your Roman Chamomile Essential Oil
When it comes to purchasing Roman chamomile be sure to check to make sure first that you are buying from a reputable manufacturer and/or company and second that you are purchasing pure Roman chamomile.
Do your research on the company/manufacturer you are purchasing your oils from. Ensure that they harvest their crops at the right time and that they distill the essential oil property.
Always read the ingredients list of the essential oil bottle to ensure the content in the bottle is as pure as possible and is not substituted with another ingredient of lesser quality.
Note that each harvest and essential oil batch will be a bit different than previous or prior batches due to how the weather and environment affect the crop each growing season.
How to Make Roman Chamomile Essential Oil
When it comes to making Roman chamomile essential oil harvesting the herb at the right time is very important. You need to make sure that the herb meets the predetermined parameters of quality that is required in order to make it.
Harvesting of the herb takes place usually in late June or July as long as the weather is suitable for harvesting. Sometimes weather can wreak havoc on the growing season as well as harvesting as rainy conditions are not ideal which can be common in the United Kingdom where Roman chamomile is commonly grown and harvested for its essential oils.
If the herb is not harvested at the precise moment that it contains the most prominent essential oils yield much of the crop could be lost or wasted.
It can take up to two weeks to harvest a full crop of Roman chamomile. Once collected it must be dried by the sun before steam distillation can take place.
When distilled the essential oil is pale blue; this is how you know that it is Roman chamomile and not another species of the chamomile family.
You can make Roman chamomile at home, but the steam distillation process is quite complicated and is a lengthy process. Not to mention ensuring you have the proper crop to harvest can be hard as well.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this post has been helpful for you. If you have any questions, comments or recommendations of your own concerning chamomile, please let us know in the comment section below!
1 thought on “15 Roman Chamomile Essential Oil Benefits & Uses (Plus Recipes & Application Tips)”
Hi Loren, Thanks for this post! I have been using essential oils for a long time and am working on getting my certification in essential oils and aromatherapy. I have just started researching Roman Chamomile, I didn’t know a whole lot about it, and this post was a huge help. thank you! I am just starting a blog on essential oils as well. 🙂 they are such a great resource for so many things! thanks for all you do!