Essential oils are potent extracts derived from plants. They are very famous in aromatherapy as they have many benefits for the skin, hair, overall health and well-being. In this article, we will discuss the chamomile essential oil benefits for skin, hair and mental health.
Chamomile essential oil comes from the chamomile plant, which belongs to the daisy family, that’s why the two of them look similar. There are two varieties of chamomile, the Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile or Anthemis nobilis) and the German chamomile (Matricaria recutita or Chamomilla recutita). They both have similar soothing and relaxing properties. Both of them have similar chemical compositions, but German chamomile is higher in chamazulene, an active ingredient most examined by researchers. Roman chamomile has a sweet aroma and medicinal benefits, while German chamomile is popular for its anti-inflammatory benefits.
The name chamomile derives from the Greek word “χαμομήλι” which means “apple of the ground”. According to Dr Couic Marinier “this derives from the intoxicating scent similar to apple that emerges from the soil when you walk on the Chamomile plant”.
History of Chamomile Essential Oil
In Ancient Egypt, chamomile oil represented the sun. It was also devoted to the God, Ra, because of its so-called curative benefits.
In the Middle Ages, people would scatter the chamomile plant on the floor at public meetings and celebrations. When people walked over, the fragrance of the pouches of chamomile would be discharged into the air.
As we mentioned earlier, people have been using chamomile over the years as a remedy to many conditions such as digestive upset, wound healing, anxiety relief, skin conditions, insomnia, and inflammation. Nowadays there is extensive research on the chamomile essential oil to elucidate its benefits.
Chamomile Essential Oil Benefits
1. Pain Relief
In a 2015 study, the efficacy of chamomile essential oil topical dilution for osteoarthritis treatment was examined. Three weeks of daily oil application were required of the participants.
Researchers discovered that using chamomile essential oil dramatically decreased the demand for painkillers as compared to subjects who did not get this treatment.
The effectiveness of topical chamomile oil for carpal tunnel syndrome was the subject of another investigation. After four weeks, the chamomile treatment group’s symptom severity scores were noticeably lower than those of the placebo group.
2. Digestive Support
In a 2018 study, the impact of topically applying diluted chamomile oil on bowel function following caesarean delivery was evaluated. Researchers discovered that individuals who applied chamomile oil to their abdomen rapidly regained their appetite and passed gas more quickly than patients who did not.
3. Helps With Insomnia
Chamomile has been praised for its capacity to improve sleep quality. In a research study of 60 elderly people, they separated the participants into two groups. One group was given capsules of chamomile extract twice a day and the other group was given a placebo. At the end of the study, they realized that those that took the chamomile extract showed improvement in their sleep quality compared to the other group.
4. Relieves Anxiety
An aromatherapy essential oil blend containing lavender, Roman chamomile, and neroli was proven to lower anxiety levels in patients in an intensive care unit, according to a 2013 study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Compared to traditional nursing interventions, the aromatherapy treatment substantially decreased anxiety levels and enhanced sleep quality in patients in the ICU.
5. Antidepressant Activity
Chamomile has a sweet aroma which can alleviate stress and can boost your mood and make you feel refreshed. A randomised trial showed that chamomile extract has antidepressant effects in people with general anxiety disorder and depression.
6. Treats Acne and Eczema
According to research, chamomile essential oil fights inflammation and is a natural antidote for eczema. Some studies showed that chamomile can be as effective as 0.25% hydrocortisone cream for treating eczema. Also, it helps in clearing redness and acne.
7. Calms Skin Rashes and Scarring
Chamomile essential oil eases skin irritations, and hydrates and moisturises the skin. You can mix 3 to 4 drops of Roman chamomile with coconut oil and rub it on your skin and you will feel the relief!
8. Improves Hair Color and Radiance
You can lighten your blonde hair by rinsing your hair with a small quantity of chamomile oil. Also, you can apply some drops of chamomile essential oil to dry hair to add shine to your hair.
9. Anti-Dandruff
According to research, chamomile has an anti-fungal activity which calms scalp irritation and itching due to dandruff. Also, it is a successful natural solution for hair lice.
10. Moisturises The Hair
Besides the soothing benefits that chamomile essential oil has, it can nourish the hair and scalp. Additionally, this essential oil can absorb moisture to enhance the hair from the inside and flourish soft and healthy hair.
How to Use Chamomile Essential Oil
As we mentioned earlier, chamomile essential oil can help with many conditions such as anxiety and insomnia. You can use it in topical applications or in a diffuser.
Topical Applications
Chamomile essential oil can be used as a massage oil, bath oil or in a lotion. Aromatherapy has many benefits for the body and among others, it helps in relaxation and pain relief. Before using chamomile essential oil directly on the body, you can first dilute it with any carrier oil of your preference.
If you want to use this essential oil as a bath oil, you can mix it with a carrier oil and afterwards add it to your warm bath water to create a relaxing atmosphere.
You can also use it in a lotion, by adding 1 to 2 drops of chamomile essential oil to your body lotion and applying it to your skin. You will see your skin deeply hydrated.
Diffuser
A diffuser can let the scents of essential oils disperse over the room, and to further promote relaxation and add a great aroma to your room.
You can also add the essential oil to a spray bottle so that you can spray your bed sheets or your pillowcases. You can dilute 10-15 drops of chamomile oil in each ounce of water, add them to a glass spray bottle and shake well before using it.
Final Thoughts
Chamomile essential oil is proven to be a remedy for many conditions for many years. You can apply it to your skin, inhale it through a diffuser, or add it to your body lotion or bath, but first, you should dilute it with a carrier oil. Always do a patch test first, on a small part of your body to see if you have any sensitivity to this specific essential oil. If you notice any redness, itching or burning you should consult your doctor.
To learn more about chamomile essential oil benefits for skin, you can read this blog, Healthline and Organic Facts. Also you can check Aromavibes for a wide range of essential oils!
