There are three basic types of Lavender available.
The first is Spike Lavender (Lavandula spicata). This wild character smells a bit like its name would lead you to believe…rough and spiky. It is full of camphoraceous notes and is not likely to soothe or relax you.
The second are the True Lavenders (Lavandula angustifolia or Lavandula officinalis). This type of Lavender can be further divided into what the French call Fine or Population lavenders, and the Clonal Lavenders.
A Clonal Lavender is a True Lavender that has been bred for certain characteristics (most usually a sweet bouquet) and which is propagated by taking cuttings from the parent plant, as opposed to by seed.
The Population Lavenders are the original Lavenders of Provence and because they are grown from seed, each plant will have a unique genetic make up and this can be seen in the variance in the appearance of the plants in the field. This variance also gives the essential oil a rich complex bouquet, and a correspondingly rich therapeutic potential. Population Lavenders require cool air to thrive, so they are only found at high elevations.
The third and final group are the Lavandins. Lavadins are types of Lavender produced by interbreeding the True Lavenders with the Spike Lavenders. There are many different strains of Lavadin, of which Abrialis, Super and Grosso are perhaps the most common. The reason that so much of the ‘lavender’ sold these days comes from strains of Lavandin plants is because these hybrid plants grow vigorously to a large size, they resist disease, and they have large flower spikes that yield a lot of oil – making the essential oil inexpensive.
Lavandula spica (spicata)
A beautiful dwarf form of English Lavender. Very Fragrant, intense blue flowers are held on short erect stems during spring summer. The flowers are held above a neat, compact, silver-grey mound of camphor scented foliage just 25cm across. Great cut flowers and dries beautifully. Lovely small specimen for pots or makes a very tidy border edging plant. Enjoys full sun in well drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil. Tolerates dry periods. Frost hardy once established.
Spike Lavender is differentiated by its minty, herbal scent. This aroma is helpful for supporting the respiratory system as well as local circulation. Spike Lavender is also more stimulating and active on the skin than Lavender Angustifolia.
Spike lavender is wonderfully cooling when hot flashes hit. Not nearly as harsh as peppermint and yet cools the entire system when applied in diluted form onto the skin. Assists in balancing hormones associated with body temperature and regulation.
Blends well with: Bay Laurel, Black Pepper, Black Spruce, Cedar Atlas, Clove, Eucalyptus Radiata, Eucalyptus Globulus, Balsam Fir, Douglas Fir, Silver Fir, Frankincense, Hyssop Decumbens, Inula, Lavender, Oregano, Palmarosa, Patchouli, Peppermint, Wild Scotch Pine, Rosemary Cineol, Sage, Tea Tree, Thyme, Wintergreen.
Safety Information: Do not apply directly on young children. Do not ingest.
Maximum Adult Dilution: 19%; 114 drops per ounce of carrier
Recommended Dilution: 1-5%; 6 – 30 drops per ounce of carrier
Lavandula latifolia
Known as broadleaved lavender, spike lavender or Portuguese lavender, is a flowering plant in the family Lamiaceae, native to the western Mediterranean region, from central Portugal to northern Italy (Liguria) through Spain and southern France. Hybridization can occur in the wild with English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia). The scent of Lavandula latifolia is stronger, with more camphor, and more pungent than Lavandula angustifolia scent. For this reason the two varieties are grown in separate fields.
Aromatically, Spike Lavender Oil tends to blend well with the same families of essential oils that traditional Lavender Oil does including other floral, mint and coniferous oils. Rosemary Essential Oil, depending on the chemotype, also tends to have a large percentage of camphor. If you particularly like the aroma of Rosemary Oil, you should find the aroma of Spike Lavender Essential Oil appealing.
Spike Lavender Essential Oil possesses usage applications similar to that of traditional Lavender Oil. However, it’s greater percentage of the constituent camphor gives it stronger analgesic and expectorant properties. It is a better choice to ease headaches or use as an expectorant in the diffuser. Diluted for topical use, it can be used to help ease aches, pains or the discomfort associated with arthritis. It is also reported to be effective in repelling insects.
Due to its camphor content of up to 25%, Spike Lavender Essential Oil should be used with care. Robert Tisserand and Rodney Young do not specify any contraindications for Spike Lavender Essential Oil, but state that it may be mildly neurotoxic. [Robert Tisserand and Rodney Young, Essential Oil Safety (Second Edition. United Kingdom: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier, 2014), 329.]
Properties : Nervous system regulation, calming, sedative, anti-depressive, powerful antispasmodic, muscle relaxer, hypotensive, general and pulmonary antiseptic, heart tonic and tonic, cardiac nerves contrastimulant, skin repair, skin regeneration (external use), anti-inflammatory, analgesic
Energetic and Emotional Effect: Solar plexus action. Lavender calms irritations associated with power confrontations and interpersonal relationships. It also calms anxious people and anger in general.
For congestion: Massage around the ear and lymphatic nodes with a few drops, pure or diluted in vegetable oil.
To calm anxiety and stress episodes: Apply five or six drops on the solar plexus (diaphragm) and massage while breathing slowly and profoundly.
To ease sleep: Mix one drop of essential oil in two table spoons of maple syrup. In your mixer, blend 500ml of plain yogurt
Jasmine Absolute& Essential Oil(Jasminum grandiflorum, officinale, and sambac)
Jasmine is known as the King of Oils, Rose is the Queen. This is because of its masculine floral scent that it possesses. It has been known as the King of Oils since ancient times. This highly concentrated oil has many health benefits that may prove beneficial for your life.
Jasmine, also known as the “Queen of the Night” or “King of Oils” is a highly intoxicating plant. Its strong, heavy yet sweet scent has been used for years to invoke love and happiness.
Jasmine belongs to the Oleaceae family. The jasmine plant can grow upwards of 10-15 feet in height or 3-5 meters. The plant has dark green leaves with white flowers. These flowers are what are harvested to be used in the making of the jasmine essential oil. There are over 200 species of jasmine that can get made into essential oil, however, commonly used jasmine for essential oil purposes is common jasmine or Jasminum Officinale Though Spanish or Royal jasmine, Jasminum Grandiflorum , is sometimes also used.
Jasmine grows in the summer and into the fall and the flowers bloom overnight. Because the flowers bloom at night this is when they are harvested to produce the essential oil. Fun fact: it takes nearly 8000 carefully picked jasmine blossoms to produce about 1 gram or 1 mL of Jasmine Absolute essential oil. The flowers have a powerful scent that explodes into the air as they bloom at night. The scent may be strong but it is also sweet in nature and pleasing to the senses. The extracted essential oil is thick in consistency and is a light reddish brown in color.
Jasmine essential oil is extracted from the flowers of jasmine, and it has various scientific names including Jasminum grandiflorum (Royal jasmine) and Jasminum officinale (Common jasmine). The oil is extracted mainly from the latter variety.
Its main components are benzoic acid, benzaldehyde, benzyl acetate, benzyl alcohol, indole, benzyl benzoate, cis-3-hexenyl benzoate, cis-jasmone, ceosol, eugenol, farnesol, geraniol, linalool, methyl anthranilate, p-cresol, nerol, gamma terpineol, nerolidol, isophytol, and phytol.
Blending: Essential oil of jasmine blends well with the essential oils of bergamot, sandalwood, rose, and citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits.
Planet – Mercury, The Moon
Element – Earth, Water
Quality – Feminine
Zodiac – Cancer, Capricorn, Pisces
Chakra – Heart
Health Benefits of Jasmine Essential Oil (OrganicFacts.net)
The health benefits of jasmine essential oil can be attributed to its properties as an antidepressant, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, antispasmodic, cicatrizant, expectorant, galactagogue, emmenagogue, parturient, sedative, and a uterine substance.
Relieves Depression: The aroma of jasmine essential oil has a pleasing and uplifting effect on the mind and it actively fights depression. This makes a person feel happy and potentially awakens romantic and poetic feelings, just as it has done in literary and musical history! The aromatic effect of jasmine oil stimulates the release of certain hormones in the body, including serotonin, which results in the boost of energy and the uplifted mood. A study published in Natural Product Communications found that jasmine oil used on the skin over an eight-week period helped participants feel an improvement in their moods and a decrease in both physical and emotional signs of low energy.
Prevents Infections: It is also a very good antiseptic and disinfectant. Its constituents like benzaldehyde, benzoic acid, and benzyl benzoate have very effective germicidal, bactericidal, fungicidal, and antiviral properties. When externally applied to wounds, it prevents them from becoming septic and effectively eliminates potential infections from tetanus. It can also have internal applications, and when inhaled, it is known to reduce infections in the respiratory system and can relieve colds and coughs.
Inhaling jasmine oil, either directly or by infusing it in your home, can help clear mucus and bacteria within the nasal passages and respiratory symptom. Applying it to your skin can also reduce inflammation, redness, pain and speed up time needed to heal wounds.
Mix 5 to 10 drops of jasmine essential oil into your favorite hand lotion and use it as a hand sanitizer. You can make the mixture stronger, or even use it straight from the bottle, too. Run a diffuser with 2 to 3 drops of jasmine oil to kill viruses in the air and fill the room with its wonderful fragrance.
Fight Fungal Infections: Apply jasmine essential oil to sites of fungal infections for quick healing. This oil often doesn’t need to be diluted with a carrier oil. Just put a few drops on your fingers and massage it into the affected area. The fungal infection should clear up within 2 weeks. Be sure to wash your clothes thoroughly to kill the fungal spores there, too. Put 5 to 10 drops of jasmine EO into your laundry along with your favorite detergent or make your own.
Mix 5 to 6 drops in 1 cup of warm water, put the mixture into a spray bottle and thoroughly spray your sneakers if you are fighting athlete’s foot. After the fungal infection clears up, mix a few drops of jasmine EO into your favorite lotion and use it as a moisturizer to keep the fungus from coming back.
Stimulates Sexual Desires: It is actually the aphrodisiac property of jasmine essential oil that makes you feel romantic or in love. This oil enhances your libido and feelings of sexual desire. Due to the aroma, the use of jasmine flowers in bridal accessories and room décor of the newlywed, especially in the Indian Subcontinent is often seen. It also helps cure problems such as premature ejaculation, frigidity, impotence, and other sexual disorders.
Compared with a placebo, jasmine oil caused significant increases of physical signs of arousal — such as breathing rate, body temperature, blood oxygen saturation, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure — in a study done on healthy adult women. Subjects in the jasmine oil group also rated themselves as more alert and more vigorous than subjects in the control group. The study results indicate that jasmine oil can increase autonomic arousal activity and help elevate mood at the same time.
Fades Scar Marks: Are you worried about the scar marks and after spots left by boils, acne, or other wounds? You should definitely try jasmine essential oil. Since it is a cicatrizant, it can help fade those scar marks and after spots. It can also help eliminate the fat cracks that often happen in pregnant mothers.
Reduces Cough: The expectorant property of Jasmine Essential Oil can help you have an undisturbed night of sleep, even when you are suffering from a cough or cold. It provides relief from a cough by helping clear out the accumulation of phlegm in the respiratory tracts. It also eliminates snoring by clearing the congestion from nasal and respiratory tracts. With jasmine essential oil working in your system, you will be kept away from coughing and snoring endlessly through the night.
Treats Insomnia: The properties of jasmine essential oil make it an ideal tool for inducing long, restful, and undisturbed sleep. Its behavior as an expectorant, sedative, and antispasmodic combine to help you indulge in a peaceful good night’s sleep. By reducing signs of insomnia and sleeplessness, you can get more productive at work and in your personal life.
A 2005 study published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology found that jasmine tea odor had sedative effects on both autonomic nerve activity and mood states. Inhaling jasmine along with lavender helped reduce heart rate and bring on feelings of calm and relaxation, which are all important for dosing off and avoiding restless nights.
Emmenagogue: This property is meant to give relief to those women who suffer from irregular, obstructed, or painful menses or an untimely menopause. The emmenagogue property of jasmine oil regulates period cycles, and makes the periods clear and less painful, while also helping to push back menopause. It also provides relief from other problems associated with menses such as fatigue, annoyance, nausea, and mood swings. Regulating your period is also a great way to balance the hormonal levels of your body. It also helps to keep other bodily functions working in a systematic manner, keeping you healthy and fit.
In a study published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, when menopausal women applied jasmine oil to their skin over an eight-week period, they showed improvements in energy levels, mood and menopause-related symptoms, including hot flashes, pain and depression, compared to women who weren’t using jasmine oil.
Use jasmine essential oil to balance your hormone levels during menopause and get relief from menopausal symptoms. Practice aromatherapy several times a day or put a few drops into a carrier oil or lotion and massage it into your abdomen and back. Actually, you can apply it as an all-over body lotion, if you like. There is a lovely blend for this that includes 1 drop each of jasmine and angelica, 2 drops clary sage, 5 drops geranium and 6 drops lemon essential oil.
Skin Care: Jasmine oil has long been associated with skin care, particularly in terms of treating dry, brittle, or dehydrated skin. However, since it does have certain non-sensitizing effects, it is not always pleasant to use on cracked or open wounds on the skin, as it can cause an allergic reaction, or irritation. That being said, it is still frequently used for the treatment of eczema and dermatitis.
Gently apply jasmine essential oil to bruises to speed healing. You can apply it several times a day.
Mix 2 to 3 drops of jasmine essential oil into 1 teaspoon of a light carrier oil and use this blend to moisturize acne-prone skin. You can also add jasmine oil to your favorite facial cleanser. For individual pimples, put a drop of jasmine oil on your fingertip or a cotton swab and apply it directly on the pimple. Jasmine’s antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties will clear it up quickly.
Massage jasmine oil into scars and stretchmarks. You will be amazed at how quickly they fade. You can use it straight or mix it into a carrier oil like argan, jojoba, sweet almond or coconut.
Use jasmine oil to clear up eczema and dermatitis. Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties will give quick relief from these uncomfortable skin conditions.
Facilitates Lactation: Jasmine essential oil increases milk secretion from the breasts and is therefore very good for lactating mothers and their new babies. This property also helps protect from breast tumor and cancer.
Promotes & Eases Childbirth: The essential oil of jasmine facilitates and eases parturition and reduces labor pains. This feature can be very beneficial in today’s situations when a normal delivery is a rare sight and most of the cases are handled with caesarean sections. For many women who choose to use jasmine essential oil, they find that the recovery process is less painful and the post-natal period is also shorter. Furthermore, it can strengthen contractions and shorten the time it takes to deliver a baby. At that point, many women suffer from post-partum depression, but jasmine essential oil also combats that tragic condition due to its antidepressant and uplifting qualities.
Practice jasmine essential oil aromatherapy for 30 to 60 minutes several times a day to help get your hormones regulated after having a baby. It will relieve anxiety, boost your energy levels and lift your spirits. Apply the PMS blend to sore abdominal and back muscles for quick relief. You can also fade stretch marks. If you are breastfeeding, wait until after the baby is weaned before you begin using jasmine oil.
Treats Spasms: Jasmine essential oil is very good for treating and relaxing spasms. It provides quick relief from spasmodic coughs, cramps, congestion, asthma, breathlessness, and even spasmodic cholera. It also alleviates intestinal cramps and pains resulting from spasms in other parts of the body. Spasms can be dangerous, disruptive, and even deadly, so any substance that can alleviate this serious condition quickly should be respected.
Soothe Sore Muscles: Massage jasmine essential oil into sore muscles for quick relief. It will quickly reduce the pain and inflammation. Mix 1 tablespoon of coconut oil with 5 or 6 drops of argan oil then add 3 to 5 drops of jasmine oil. The coconut oil has a great consistency for massage and the argan oil speeds up absorption.
Sedative Effect: Jasmine essential oil calms down the body, mind, and soul while bringing forth positive and constructive emotions. It gives relief from anxiety, stress, annoyance, anger, and depression as well as from inflammations of all sorts. Although further research is yet to be conducted, these sedative and anti-inflammatory properties are also associated with pain and discomfort of arthritis and gout.
Cognitive Ability Aide: Jasmine is a natural energy booster. Simply inhaling jasmine in the morning will help to awaken the senses allowing you to be more aware and alert for the upcoming day. It also helps to increase body temperature and heart rate along with the brain’s activity to help increase productivity and learning.
Protects the Uterus: This oil is good for uterine health because it tones the uterus and promotes the secretion of certain hormones which ensure good health and proper functioning of the organ. It also helps protect the uterus from tumors, particularly after menopause, by restricting the flow of estrogen.
Other Benefits: It can also be used to free people from narcotics and other addictions.
Word of Caution: Pregnant women should avoid using this oil until parturition since it is an emmenagogue. It is highly relaxing and sedating and thus heavy doses should be avoided. Again, those who are allergic to jasmine should avoid using it, as with any essential oil made from a known allergen.
How Does Jasmine Absolute Oil Work?
Jasmine absolute oil works in different ways, depending on how you need it. It can be inhaled, diffused or can be simply applied externally. The following are some ways to use your jasmine absolute oil:
Through a diffuser. Just add some drops of the essential to your diffuser to provide a relaxing and refreshing fragrance to your home.
External application. Apply a few drops of the oil on your neck or forehead to calm and clear your mind, or to feel a surge of hope and happiness. Applying it topically can also treat skin disorders and muscle spasms.
Inhalation. Jasmine absolute oil also aids coughs and relieves nervousness and stress when inhaled.
What to Look for When Purchasing Your Jasmine Absolute
What to look for when it comes to purchasing your jasmine essential oil. Well there are a few things that you should look for and note when you are looking for a company or manufacturer.
First you will want to ensure that you are purchasing your essential oil from a reputable company and/or manufacturer. You will want to ensure that this company or manufacturer harvests the jasmine flowers at the correct time, using the correct harvesting methods.
You will also want to ensure that they extract the jasmine essential oil through the process of solvent or enfleurage extraction. You will want to check the ingredients of the jasmine essential oil bottle to ensure you are purchasing true or absolute essential oil and not a carrier oil with jasmine added to it.
Note that the essential oil that is produced year to year can vary because of the environment. This is normal but is something to consider as prices could change to reflect how plentiful or devastating the harvest was that specific year. Temperature, humidity, moisture and other environmental elements can all play a factor in the production and harvest of the jasmine blossoms.
How to Make Jasmine Oil at Home
Jasmine essential oil is not an easy essential oil to produce. Since the jasmine flowers are fragile it makes for a careful harvest and extraction process. The flowers have been known to bruise easily upon harvest which can lead to an unpleasant fragrance when the oil is produced.
In order to produce the highest quality of essential oil, jasmine should be harvested at night when it is full bloom. This will ensure that the chemical makeup inside of the jasmine flowers is at their prime for extraction.
Jasmine essential oil is typically extracted through the process of solvent extraction or enfleurage extraction. Both of these processes soak the jasmine flowers to help extract the essential oil from the flowers.
Enfleurage extraction is done by soaking the jasmine flowers in odorless plant oil or animal fats. Alcohol is then added to the mixture to pull the essential oil from the fat. Then the fat is separated from the mixture and the alcohol is allowed to evaporate to leave the end result of the jasmine absolute.
Solvent extraction is like that of the above enfleurage extraction however water and organic solvents are used to extract the oil from the jasmine flowers. The water and the solvent are then separated and removed from the mixture leaving behind the jasmine essential oil.
It should be noted that the chemicals that are sometimes used in the solvent extraction process can change the chemical makeup of the jasmine essential oil. Do your research on how the extraction is done and what is used in the extraction process.
Both processes can be time consuming and difficult to perform, especially if you do not have the right equipment. That is not to say that it cannot be done, but just note the pros and cons of each process prior to trying it on your own.
Recipes
Homemade Jasmine Oil Perfume
Ingredients:
30 drops jasmine oil
5 drops vanilla essential oil
5 drops lavender essential oil
5 drops orange essential oil
2 tablespoons everclear
1 tablespoon orange blossom water (or distilled water)
Directions:
Mix the essential oil blend with the everclear in a glass mason jar or bottle and leave it to sit on a counter top for two days. Keep it covered and somewhere that’s room temperature and away from the sun.
Add the orange blossom water or distilled water and stir together. Add the mixture to an old perfume spray bottle or regular aluminum spray bottle. Keep the mix somewhere around room temperature, and use on your skin, clothes, sheets, rugs, etc.
That Time of the Month Massage Blend
Ingredients:
2 drops jasmine essential oil
4 drops marjoram essential oil
10 mL carrier oil of your choice (argan, coconut, sesame, sweet almond, jojoba, grapeseed, macadamia)
Instructions:
In a 10 ml roller bottle combine all of the above ingredients together.
Mix well.
Massage onto the stomach and/or lower back as needed.
SKU 83556
Foaming Face Wash Blend
Ingredients:
8 oz. mild unscented castile soap
8 oz. distilled water
1 Tbsp. sweet almond oil
20 drops jasmine essential oil
10 drops geranium essential oil
Instructions:
In a foaming soap dispenser combine all of the above ingredients together.
Mix well.
Pump one pump into the palm of your hands and massage into face. Rinse
Use twice daily as needed.
Bring the Romance Diffuser Blend
Ingredients:
1 drop jasmine essential oil
1 drop patchouli essential oil
1 drop orange essential oil
Instructions:
Combine all of the above ingredients together in a diffuser.
Diffuse throughout the air to induce feelings of romance and sexual desire.
Jasmine Coconut Sugar Scrub
Ingredients:
10 drops jasmine essential oil
½ cup coconut oil
1 cup sugar
Instructions:
Melt the ½ cup of coconut oil in the microwave or over the stove. Make sure it is completely melted.
Transfer the melted coconut oil to a bowl and add in the sugar.
Mix well.
Mix in the jasmine essential oil. Be sure it is well combined into the mixture.
Transfer the mixture to a Mason jar and seal.
Use as needed in the shower. Apply to the body, massaging it in and then rinse off.
Jasmine Bath Salts
Ingredients:
15-20 drops jasmine EO
3 cups Epsom salts
Instructions:
In a glass jar combine the above ingredients together.
Mix well.
In a warm bath add ¼ – ½ cup of the mixture. Lay back and enjoy!
Here are a few other ideas for using jasmine essential oil:
Try adding a few drops of the essential oil to a diffuser to diffuse throughout the room to help reduce depression and stress or to help promote rest and relaxation.
Try mixing a few drops of jasmine essential oil with a carrier oil and applying it to sore muscles or wounds on the skin. Also try applying this to the temples or neck to help reduce the feeling of stress and depression.
Add a few drops of jasmine to a bath and allow it to help soothe and relax you.
Try a jasmine essential oil inhaler for on the go relief.
Massage some jasmine onto your stomach to help relieve symptoms of PMS and menopause.
Mix a couple drops of jasmine essential oil with your face lotion and massage onto and into the face to help reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
Try some jasmine tea to help promote healing, rest and relaxation.
Botanical
Name: Anthemis nobilis / Chamaemelum nobile
Common
Method of Extraction: Steam Distilled
Plant
Part Typically Used: Flowers/Buds
Color: Gray/Very
Pale Blue
BLENDS
WELL WITH: Bergamot, clary sage, eucalyptus, geranium, grapefruit,
jasmine, lavender, lemon, neroli, oakmoss, palmarosa, rose, tea tree
Chamaemelum nobile commonly known as Anthémis, Anthémis
Odorante, Anthemis nobilis, Babuna Ke Phool, Camomille d’Anjou, Camomille Noble,
Camomille Romaine, Chamaemelum nobile, Chamomilla, Chamomile, Chamomillae
Ramane Flos, English Chamomile, Fleur de Camomille Romaine, Flores Anthemidis,
Garden Chamomile, Grosse Kamille, Ground Apple, Huile Essentielle de Camomille
Romaine, Low Chamomile, Manzanilla, Manzanilla Romana, Ormenis nobilis, Roman
Chamomile Essential Oil, Romische Kamille, Sweet Chamomile, Whig Plant.
Composition
of Roman Chamomile Oil: main components include a-pinene,
b-pinene, camphene, sabinene, 1,8-cineole, myrcene, caryophyllene, y-terpinene,
propyl angelate and butyl angelate.
Roman chamomile comes from northwestern Europe and
Northern Ireland where it creeps close to the ground and can reach up to one
foot in height. Gray-green leaves grow from the stems, and the flowers have
yellow centers surrounded by white petals, like miniature daisies. Its leaves
are thicker than German chamomile, and it grows closer to the ground. The
flowers smell like apples.
The plant is used to flavor foods, in herbal teas,
perfumes, and cosmetics. It is used to make a rinse for blonde hair, and is
popular in aromatherapy; its practitioners believe it to be a calming agent to
reduce stress and aid in sleep. It can also be used to create a fragrant
camomile lawn. A chamomile lawn needs light soil, adequate moisture, and sun in
order to thrive. Each square meter contains 83-100 plants. The lawn is only
suitable to light foot traffic or in places where mower access is difficult.
Its properties make it appropriate for the treatment of
cracked nipples that develop during breastfeeding. It can be applied directly
to the skin for pain and swelling. It is not recommended for use during
pregnancy as it can cause uterine contractions and miscarriage.
How to Use Roman Chamomile
The appropriate dose of Roman chamomile depends on several factors such as the user’s age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough information to determine an appropriate range of doses for Roman chamomile. It is not known if Roman chamomile interacts with any medications. There are no known interactions with other herbs and supplements. There are no known interactions with foods.
Tea:
Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 2 to 3 heaping tsp. (2 to 4 g) of dried herb,
steep 10 to 15 minutes. Drink 3 to 4 times per day between meals.
Bath: Use
1/4 lb. of dried flowers per bath, or add 5 to 10 drops of essential oil to a
full tub of water to soothe hemorrhoids, cuts, eczema, perineal pain, or insect
bites.
Cream/Ointment:
Apply cream or ointment containing 3 to 10% chamomile content.
History
and Facts
Chamomile is one of the oldest, most widely used and
well-documented medicinal plants in the world and has been recommended for a
variety of healing applications. Chamomile plants are a member of the
Asteraceae/Compositae family. There are two common types of chamomile used
medicinally today: German chamomile (chamomilla recutita) and Roman chamomile
(chamaemelum nobile).
Roman chamomile essential oil is steam-distilled from the
plant’s flowers and has a sweet, fresh, apple-like and fruity aroma. After
distillation, the oil ranges in color from brilliant blue to deep green when fresh
but turns to dark yellow after storage. Despite the color fading, the oil does
not lose its potency. Approximately 120 secondary metabolites have been
identified in chamomile, including 28 terpenoids and 36 flavonoids. Roman
chamomile essential oil is mainly constituted from esters of angelic acid and
tiglic acid, plus farnesene and a-pinene, which have anti-inflammatory and
antibiotic properties.
Considered to be one of the most ancient and versatile
essential oils, Roman chamomile essential oil has been used to treat a variety
of conditions because of its anti-spasmodic effects due to its high esters
content. Today, it’s commonly used in the natural treatment of nervous system
problems, eczema, fever, heartburn, gout, anxiety and insomnia.
Proven Benefits of Roman Chamomile Essential Oil
Fights
Anxiety and Depression: Roman chamomile essential oil has been
used as a mild sedative to calm nerves and reduce anxiety by promoting
relaxation. Inhaling Roman chamomile is one of the best ways to utilize
essential oils for anxiety. The fragrance is carried directly to the brain and
serves as an emotional trigger. Research shows that Roman chamomile has been
used for relief of depressive and anxiety symptoms all over the world,
including a number of regions in southern Italy, Sardinia, Morocco and Brazil.
Serves as a Natural Allergy Reliever: Roman chamomile possesses antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, and it’s commonly used for hay fever. It has the power to relieve mucus congestion, irritations, swelling and skin conditions that are associated with seasonal allergy symptoms. When applied topically, Roman chamomile oil helps relieve skin irritations that may be due to food allergies or sensitivities.
Helps
Alleviate PMS Symptoms: Roman chamomile essential oil serves as
a natural mood booster that helps reduce feelings of depression — plus its antispasmodic
properties allow it to soothe menstrual cramps and body aches that are commonly
associated with PMS, such as headaches and back pain. Its relaxant properties
make it a valuable remedy for PMS symptoms, and it can even help clear up acne
that may appear as a result of hormone fluctuations.
Reduces
Symptoms of Insomnia: The relaxing properties of Roman
chamomile promote healthy sleep and fight insomnia. A 2006 case study explored
the inhalation effects of Roman chamomile essential oil on mood and sleep. The
results found the volunteers experienced more drowsiness and calmness,
demonstrating its potential to improve sleep and help enter a restful state.
Inhalation of chamomile reduces a stress-induced increase in plasma
adrenocorticotropic hormone levels.
Boosts Skin Health: Roman chamomile promotes smooth, healthy skin and relieves irritations because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It has been used as a natural remedy for eczema, wounds, ulcers, gout, skin irritations, bruises, burns, canker cores, and even skin conditions like cracked nipples, chicken pox, ear and eye infections, poison ivy, and diaper rash.
Supports
Digestive Health: Chamomile is used traditionally for numerous
gastrointestinal conditions, including digestive disorders. Roman chamomile
essential oil contains anodyne compounds that are antispasmodic and can be used
to treat or relieve digestive issues, such as gas, leaky gut, acid reflux,
indigestion, diarrhea and vomiting. It’s especially helpful in dispelling gas,
soothing the stomach and relaxing the muscles so food can move through the
intestines with ease. Because of its relaxing properties, Roman chamomile can
also be used internally and topically to get rid of nausea.
Promotes
Heart Health: Roman chamomile provides cardiovascular
protection because of its high levels of flavonoids, which have been shown to
significantly reduce mortality from coronary heart disease when taken
internally. Because of the flavonoids present in Roman chamomile essential oil,
it may lower blood pressure and have a relaxing effect on the heart.
May
Relieve Arthritic Pain: A study in human volunteers demonstrated
that chamomile flavonoids and essential oils penetrate below the surface into
deeper skin layers. This is important for their use as topical
anti-inflammatory agents that can effectively treat arthritic pain. When
applied topically or added to a warm water bath, Roman chamomile oil helps
reduce pain in the lower back, knees, wrists, fingers and other problematic
areas.
Gentle
Enough for Children: For centuries, mothers have used chamomile to
calm crying children, reduce fevers, eliminate earaches and soothe upset
stomachs. It’s often called the “kid calmer” because of its ability to help
children with ADD/ADHD, and it’s one of the gentlest essential oils on the
planet, making it great for infants and children.
Displays Anticancer Activity: Studies evaluating chamomile on pre-clinical models of skin, prostate, breast and ovarian cancer have shown promising growth inhibitory effects. In a 2007 study conducted at Case Western Reserve University in Ohio, chamomile extracts were shown to cause minimal growth inhibitory effects on normal cells but significant reductions in cell viability in various human cancer cell lines. Chamomile exposure induced apoptosis in cancer cells but not in normal cells at similar doses. The study represents the first reported demonstration of the anticancer effects of chamomile.
In addition to these Roman chamomile essential oil benefits, preliminary research suggests that chamomile may also help treat hemorrhoids, have a protective effect on pancreatic beta cells in diminishing hyperglycemia-related oxidative stress, relieve symptoms of vaginitis (vaginal inflammation), treat the common cold, and relieve sore throat and hoarseness.
How to Use Roman Chamomile Essential Oil
Roman chamomile essential oil is available in health stores and online. It can be diffused, applied to the skin topically and taken internally. Here are some easy ways to use Roman chamomile oil:
To fight anxiety and depression, diffuse 5
drops, or inhale it directly from the bottle.
To improve digestion and leaky gut, apply 2–4
drops topically to the abdomen. When diluted with a carrier oil like coconut
oil, it can even be used in low doses for children with colic and diarrhea.
For a restful sleep, diffuse chamomile oil
next to bed, rub 1–2 drops onto the temples or inhale it directly from the
bottle.
To help calm children, diffuse Roman
chamomile oil at home or dilute 1–2 drops with coconut oil and apply the
mixture topically to the area in need (such as the temples, stomach, wrists,
back of neck or bottoms of the feet).
To use as a home remedy for acne, treat
various skin conditions and combat the signs of aging, add 2–3 drops to a clean
cotton ball and apply chamomile oil to the area of concern, or add 5 drops to a
face wash. If you have very sensitive skin, dilute chamomile with a carrier oil
before applying it topically. (15)
To promote heart health, apply 2–4 drops
topically over the heart or take internally by placing it under the tongue.
To ease nausea, inhale Roman chamomile
directly from the bottle, or combine it with ginger, peppermint and lavender
oil and diffuse. It can also be used topically on temples to help with nausea.
Roman Chamomile Essential Oil Precautions
Because Roman chamomile oil is an emmenagogue, which means that it stimulates blood flow in the pelvic area, it should not be used during pregnancy.
Possible
Interactions: If you currently take any of the following
drugs, you should not use chamomile without first talking to your health care
provider.
Blood
thinning medications (anticoagulants and antiplatelets):
Chamomile may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood-thinners such
as warfarin (Coumadin), clopidogrel (Plavix), and aspirin.
Sedatives:
Chamomile can make these drugs stronger, including:
Anti-seizure
drugs, such as phenytoin (Dilantin) and valproic acid
(Depakote)
Barbiturates
Benzodiazepines,
such as alprazolam (Xanax) and diazepam (Valium)
Drugs
to treat insomnia, such as zolpidem (Ambien), zaleplon
(Sonata), eszopiclone (Lunesta), and ramelteon (Rozerem)
Tricyclic
antidepressants, such as amitriptyline (Elavil)
Alcohol
The same is true of sedative herbs, such as valerian, kava, and catnip.
Blood
pressure medications: Chamomile may lower blood pressure slightly.
Taking it with drugs for high blood pressure could cause blood pressure to drop
too low.
Diabetes
medications: Chamomile may lower blood sugar. Taking it
with diabetes drugs could raise the risk of hypoglycemia or low blood sugar.
Other
drugs: Because chamomile is broken down by the liver, it may
interact with other drugs that are broken down the same way. o weeks at a time
and use only the highest quality essential oil.
German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), which is often
referred to as blue chamomile or true chamomile, comes from the Compositae
sunflower family. It is one of the two chamomile species that can be used
medicinally. The other one is the Roman or English chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile).
This plant, which hails from Southern and Eastern parts
of Europe, grows from 6 centimeters up to 60 centimeters (2.3 to 23.5 inches)
tall with heavily branched and furrowed stems. Like Roman chamomile oil, German
chamomile essential oil is extracted either through solvent extraction or steam
distillation of its golden yellow flowers that have ray-like blossoms.
You can find German Chamomile in Mother Jai’s Deep Sleep Oil.
Composition of German Chamomile Oil
Major Constituents
Bisabolol
Farnesol
Azulene
Farnasene
Thujanol
Some of the most important chemical components of German
chamomile oil are sesquiterpenes, 36 flavonoids, coumarins and polyacetylenes.
Other constituents include chamazulene (which has antiseptic capabilities), as
well as 28 terpenoids and 52 additional compounds with potential
pharmacological activity that gives it antimicrobial and fungistatic
capabilitiesfarnesene, sesquiterpenes, cadinene, furfural, spanthulenol, and
proazulenes (matricarin and matricin).
Chamazulene (or azulen when isolated), which provides
German chamomile oil its deep bluish color, is formed from matricin during
steam distillation. Prolonged storage and light exposure destroys this effect.
This often results in a lighter blue color, which can turn into a pale green,
yellow or even brown shade.
When it’s still fresh, German chamomile oil has a viscous
quality and has a sweet, herbaceous scent with fruity undertones. However, in
its concentrated and dried-out form, German chamomile oil can sometimes be
nauseating and unpleasant for some individuals. German chamomile oil blends
well with rose oil, lavender oil, cedar oil, neroli oil and geranium oil.
Blending: Chamomile
Oil forms very pleasant blends with Bergamot, Clary Sage, Lavender, Jasmine,
Geranium, Grapefruit, Tea Tree, Rose, Lemon, Lime and Ylang-Ylang Oil.
Benefits
of German Chamomile Oil
German chamomile oil provides antispasmodic, antiseptic,
antibiotic, antidepressant, antineuralgic, antiphlogistic, carminative,
cholagogue, cicatrisant, emmenagogue, analgesic, febrifuge, hepatic, sedative,
nervine, digestive, tonic, antispasmodic, bactericidal, sudorific, stomachic,
anti-inflammatory, anti-infectious, vermifuge, and vulnerary properties. This
beneficial essential oil penetrates deep into the layers of your skin where its
potent anti-inflammatory action can restore and soothe irritated skin, mouth
ulcers, burns, bruises and other skin conditions. Aside from possibly helping
lift up your mood and letting go of your anxieties, German chamomile oil has
other reported benefits when used in tandem with other essential oils in
aromatherapy.
Uses
of German Chamomile Oil
German chamomile oil is broadly used in the cosmetic
industry, especially in formulations designed to improve dry, inflamed or
irritated skin. It is also added in shampoos and conditioners. Other practical
uses of German chamomile oil include:
Allergic reactions — Apply topically on the affected area in a balm or coconut oil for instant relief.
Anogenital disorders — Add in baths and irrigation.
Candida infection — Can help alleviate itching caused by yeast fungus in the vaginal area by having a warm sitz bath regularly until your condition improves. Add one drop of German chamomile oil and two drops of tea tree oil in a gallon of warm water.
Hair moisturizer — Blend two drops of German chamomile oil, rosemary oil, and lavender oil with 4 tablespoons of sweet almond oil. Massage it onto your hair and scalp once a week. For best results, leave it on overnight.
Inflammation and irritation of the respiratory tract — By inhalation either through diffusion or spraying.
Improves Digestion – Being a stomachic, they tone up the stomach and ensure its proper function. They also promote the secretion of digestive juices into the stomach and facilitate digestion. Being Hepatic, which means being good for the liver, they ensure good health of the liver and the proper flow of bile from it. They are also considered Cholagogues, meaning that they increase the secretion of Hydrochloric Acid, bile, and enzymes in the stomach, thereby promoting digestion.
Open leg sores, wounds, hemorrhoids, mastitis, eczemas, gingivitis and ingrown nails — Use topically as a poultice, salve or compress. To make a compress, take a damp cloth, add a few drops of German chamomile oil, and place it on top of the affected area with the essential oil facing away from the skin. This way, the oil’s healing properties will seep into the cloth without putting the skin at risk of any potential hypersensitivity.
Menstrual cramps — Take a five-minute sitz bath (a warm, shallow bath that cleanses your perineum, the space between your rectum and the vulva or scrotum) in a gallon of warm water with two drops of German chamomile and lavender oil.
May help relieve migraine — Moisten a towel with cool water and add a few drops of German chamomile oil. Place the damp cloth on your forehead, close your eyes and relax.
May provide relief from joint pain or tense, stiff and cramping muscles —Blend 2 tablespoons of sweet almond oil and two drops of German chamomile oil and rosemary oil. Massage this blend onto the affected areas to ease up the tensed muscles and increase circulation.
Moisturizing skin mist — To make your own natural skin mist, blend two drops of German chamomile oil, two drops of lavender oil, one drop of rose otto oil and 4 ounces of purified water in a ready-to-spray bottle. This natural moisturizing mist will surely be handy for your sunbathing sessions.
PMS Aide – The symptoms of PMS can be very debilitating for many women. German chamomile’s anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties help in relieving many of the symptoms commonly associated with PMS as well as with menopause. It can help to reduce cramping, pain and nausea commonly associated with PMS as well as menopause. It also helps to balance the hormones which can be very unbalanced during PMS and menopause; this helps a woman to be more calm and relaxed or less irritable and emotional during this time.
Prevents Infections – Both varieties have very good antiseptic and antibiotic properties which do not let biotic infections develop, which arise due to biotic factors such as bacteria and fungi. They also eliminate infections that are already present. These are good vermifuge agents as well, which kill all sorts of intestinal worms. If applied to the hair, it kills lice and mites, keeping the hair and scalp free from infections and damage.
Reduces Anger – While Roman Chamomile is found to be effective in calming down annoyance, anger, and irritation, particularly in small children. The German variety, on the other hand, is found to be more effective on adults for curing inflammation, particularly when it is located in the digestive or urinary system. They also reduce blood pressure and curb the swelling of blood vessels.
Relieves Depression – Both varieties have been seen to be very effective in fighting depression and for raising spirits. They eliminate feelings of sadness, depression, disappointment, and sluggishness while inducing a sort of happy or charged feeling. Even smelling these oils can help a lot in overcoming depression and bringing about a good mood.
Removes Toxic Agents – As a sudorific, both varieties of chamomile oil induce profuse perspiration, which helps to remove toxins and agents that cause infections while simultaneously cooling down the body and effectively providing relief from fever, thus serving as a Febrifuge.
Sedative – German chamomile is well known for is sedative properties. It allows the body and the mind to relax and calm prior to bedtime allowing for a more restful and deeper sleep. This property is also important when it comes to relieving stress, depression and anxiety because it allows the body and the mind to calm and stop racing allowing a person to relax enough to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Getting a proper night’s sleep is also very important when having a cold or flu as sleep helps to heal the body from said infection.
Shingles — Use topically as a poultice. Combine 10 drops of German chamomile oil, two drops of geranium oil, four drops of bergamot oil, six drops of balm, and five drops of lavender. Mix it in water to use as a compress or in 1 3/4 fluid ounces of almond oil.
Skin toner — German chamomile oil has astringent properties, which makes it ideal for pore-cleansing treatment. Simply add the essential oil to your own homemade facial cleanser and apply using cotton balls.
Treats Rheumatism – They cure dysfunctions of the circulatory system, stimulate circulation and detoxify the blood from toxins like uric acid, thereby helping to cure ailments like rheumatism and arthritis, which are caused due to improper circulation and accumulation of uric acid. These abilities classify them as good antiphlogistics, any agents which reduce swelling and edema.
Side
Effects of German Chamomile Oil
Never use German chamomile oil during pregnancy as it may induce menstruation and/or premature labor due to its emmenagogue and uterotonic side effects. It also contains coumarin, so care should be taken to avoid potential drug interactions, e.g. with blood thinners. Although there are no existing cases of allergic reactions or hypersensitivity linked to the proper use of German chamomile oil. It is suggested to avoid this essential oil if you have a known allergy to any plant from the Asteraceae or Compositae family (daisy, rag weed, chrysanthemum) to prevent any untoward reactions. If you are not sure whether you’re allergic to it or not, a skin patch test is advised. Apply German chamomile oil on a small portion of your skin and wait for a few hours. If irritation occurs, discontinue use immediately.
Possible
Interactions
If you take any of the following drugs, you should not
use German chamomile without first talking to your health care provider:
Blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants and antiplatelets): Chamomile may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood-thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin), clopidogrel (Plavix), and aspirin.
Sedatives: Use caution with sedatives since chamomile can make these drugs stronger.
Anti-seizure medications, such as phenytoin (Dilantin) and valproic acid (Depakote)
Barbiturates
Benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax) and diazepam (Valium)
Drugs to treat insomnia, such as zolpidem (Ambien), zaleplon (Sonata), eszopiclone (Lunesta), and ramelteon (Rozerem)
Tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline (Elavil)
Alcohol
The same is true of sedative herbs, such as valerian, kava, and catnip.
Blood pressure medications: Chamomile may lower blood pressure slightly. Taking it with drugs for high blood pressure could cause blood pressure to drop too low.
Diabetes medications: Chamomile may lower blood sugar. Taking it with diabetes drugs could raise the risk of hypoglycemia or low blood sugar.
Hormonal therapies: Due to its similarity to estrogen, chamomile may potentially interfere with drugs such as nolvadex (Tamoxifen) among others.
Other drugs: Because chamomile is broken down by the liver, it may interact with other drugs that are broken down the same way.
Fexofenadine (Seldane)
Statins (drugs that can lower cholesterol)
Birth control pills
Some antifungal drugs
Available
Forms
German chamomile is available as dried flower heads, tea,
essential oil, liquid extract, capsules, and topical ointment.
How
to Take It
Pediatric
– Ask
your doctor before giving chamomile tea to a child. Children under 5 should not
take more than half a cup of tea per day.
To relieve colic: Some doctors suggest 1 to 2
oz. of tea per day. Your doctor may recommend other doses.
Adult
Tea: Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 2 to 3
heaping tsp. (2 to 4 g) of dried herb, steep 10 to 15 minutes. Drink 3 to 4
times per day between meals.
Tincture (1:5, 45% alcohol): 30 to 60 drops
of tincture, 3 times per day in hot water.
Capsules: 300 to 400 mg taken 3 times per
day.
Gargle or mouthwash: Make a tea as above,
then let it cool. Gargle as often as desired. You may also make an oral rinse
with 10 to 15 drops of German chamomile liquid extract in 100 ml warm water,
and use 3 times per day.
Inhalation: Add a few drops of essential oil
of chamomile to hot water (or use tea) and breathe in the steam to calm a
cough.
Bath: Use 1/4 lb. of dried flowers per bath,
or add 5 to 10 drops of essential oil to a full tub of water to soothe
hemorrhoids, cuts, eczema, or insect bites.
Poultice: Make a paste by mixing powdered
herb with water and apply to inflamed skin.
Cream: Use a cream with a 3 to 10% chamomile content for psoriasis, eczema, or dry and flaky skin.
Recipes
Bathtub
Scrub-a-Dub-Dub
½
cup baking soda
½
cup vinegar
5
drop German chamomile EO
5
drops bergamot EO
Directions:
Mix all of the above ingredients together in a glass jar. Massage the mixture
into the skin focusing on sore muscles. Soak in a warm bath for at least 15
minutes to calm and relax the body and the mind. Use as needed, daily if
desired.
Bedtime Face Lotion
15
drops German chamomile EO
15
drops lavender EO
15
drops peppermint EO
¼
cup olive oil
¼
cup coconut oil
¼
cup beeswax
¼
cup shea butter
2
Tbsp. vitamin E
Directions:
In a glass bowl added olive oil, beeswax, coconut oil and shea butter. Place
the glass bowl over a pot of simmering water on the stove and melt together.
Mix well. Once the four ingredients are melted and mixed well together remove
from heat and place in the refrigerator for at last an hour or until solid. Once
the mixture is solid remove the bowl from the fridge. Taking a hand mixer beat
the mixture in the bowl until it is fluffy in texture. Add in the essential
oils and vitamin E and mix well. Place in a glass container and store in a cool
dry place. Apply to the face focusing on the temples prior to bedtime to help
promote rest and relaxation of the mind and body.
PMS Saver Blend
2
drops German chamomile EO
2
drops sage EO
2
drops basil EO
2 drops
rosemary EO
Directions:
Combine all of the essential oils together in a bowl. Pour the essential oils
onto a warm moist hand towel and place on the stomach for 5-10 minutes or
longer as needed to help relieve the pain, inflammation and cramping of PMS
Sunburn Salve
10
drops lavender EO
6
drops German chamomile EO
4
drops peppermint EO
4
oz. fractionated coconut oil
Directions:
Melt the coconut oil over low heat on the stove. Once melted remove from heat
and add in the essential oils. Mix well. Transfer into a 4 oz glass jar and
allow to cool. Apply to affected area as needed at least twice a day.
German Chamomile Body Wash
1
cup water
¼
cup raw honey
⅔ cup
liquid Castile soap
30
drops German chamomile EO
1
tsp. vitamin E
2
tsp. carrier oil of your choosing (argan, coconut, sesame, sweet almond,
jojoba, grapeseed, macadamia)
Directions:
Mix all of the above ingredients in a glass bottle and mix well. Shake prior to
use.
Bonus ways you can experiment with when
it comes to using German chamomile essential oil:
To help relieve the symptoms of anxiety and
depression add a few drops of German chamomile and rose essential oil to a warm
bath or mix and diffuse in a room.
To help with motion sickness, inhale a
combination of German chamomile, peppermint, lavender and ginger essential
oils.
Try having some chamomile tea to help reduce stress, anxiety and depression. It can also help to soothe and calm the stomach.
These are the dried flowers you can purchase in bulk or
in tea bags in the store. Also known as Matricaria
chamomilla or German Chamomile. The names seem to be used interchangeably.
Commonly known as chamomile (also spelled camomile), Italian camomilla, German
chamomile, Hungarian chamomile (kamilla), wild chamomile, Manzanilla,
Matricaris, Sweet False Chamomile, Ground apple, Blue Chamomile,
or scented mayweed, is an annual plant of the composite family Asteraceae. M.
chamomilla is the most popular source of the herbal product chamomile, although
other species are also used as chamomile.
German chamomile is used in herbal medicine for a sore
stomach, irritable bowel syndrome, and as a gentle sleep aid. It is also used
as a mild laxative and is anti-inflammatory and bactericidal. It can be taken
as an herbal tea, two teaspoons of dried flower per cup of tea, which should be
steeped for 10 to 15 minutes while covered to avoid evaporation of the volatile
oils.
One of the active ingredients of its essential oil is the
terpene bisabolol. Other active ingredients include farnesene, chamazulene,
flavonoids (including apigenin, quercetin, patuletin and luteolin) and
coumarin.
Chamomile, a relative of ragweed, can cause allergy symptoms and can cross-react with ragweed pollen in individuals with ragweed allergies. It also contains coumarin, so care should be taken to avoid potential drug interactions, e.g. with blood thinners. While extremely rare, very large doses of chamomile may cause nausea and vomiting. Even more rarely, rashes may occur. Type-IV allergic reactions (i.e. contact dermatitis) are common and one case of severe Type-I reaction (i.e. anaphylaxis) has been reported in a 38-year-old man who drank chamomile tea.
Drug-Herb Interactions
Non-heme Iron – Reduced absorption (human
study)
Warfarin – Potentiated (speculative)
Benzodiazepines and Opiate Withdrawal –
Adjuvant to (empirical)
Formulation
& Preparation
Infusion – 2 tsp/cup three to four times daily
Tincture – 1-4mL (1:5, 40%) three times daily or 7-14mL (1:5, 50%) three times daily
Oil – 2-3 drops of essential oil in hot water basin for steam inhalation
Eyewash – 1 cup warm infusion, strained, wash eyes gently
To encourage a baby to sleep – 1-2 cups strained infusion (tea) in bath water
Healing
with Chamomile
as a tea, be used for lumbago, rheumatic
problems and rashes.
as a salve, be used for hemorrhoids and
wounds.
as a vapor, be used to alleviate cold
symptoms or asthma.
relieve restlessness, teething problems, and
colic in children.
relieve allergies, much as an antihistamine
would.
aid in digestion when taken as a tea after
meals.
relieve morning sickness during pregnancy.
speed healing of skin ulcers, wounds, or
burns.
treat gastritis and ulcerative colitis.
reduce inflammation and facilitate bowel
movement without acting directly as a purgative.
be used as a wash or compress for skin
problems and inflammations, including inflammations of mucous tissue.
promote general relaxation and relieve
stress. Animal studies show that chamomile contains substances that act on the
same parts of the brain and nervous system as anti-anxiety drugs. Never stop
taking prescription medications, however, without consulting your doctor.
control insomnia. Chamomile’s mildly
sedating, and muscle-relaxing effects may help those who suffer from insomnia
to fall asleep more easily.
treat diverticular disease, irritable bowel problems and various gastrointestinal complaints. Chamomile’s reported anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic actions relax the smooth muscles lining the stomach and intestine. The herb may therefore help to relieve nausea, heartburn, and stress-related flatulence. It may also be useful in the treatment of diverticular disorders and inflammatory bowel conditions such as Crohn’s disease.
soothe skin rashes (including eczema), minor
burns and sunburn. Used as a lotion or added in oil form to a cool bath,
chamomile may ease the itching of eczema and other rashes and reduces skin
inflammation. It may also speed healing and prevent bacterial infection.
treat eye inflammation and infection. Cooled
chamomile tea can be used in a compress to help soothe tired, irritated eyes
and it may even help treat conjunctivitis.
heal mouth sores and prevent gum disease. A
chamomile mouthwash may help soothe mouth inflammations and keep gums healthy.
reduce menstrual cramps. Chamomile’s believed
ability to relax the smooth muscles of the uterus helps ease the discomfort of
menstrual cramping.
calms muscle spasms – one study from England found that drinking chamomile tea raised urine levels of glycine, a compound that calms muscle spasms. Researchers believe this is why chamomile tea could prove to be an effective home remedy for menstrual cramps as well.
natural hemorrhoid treatment – Chamomile ointment can help to relieve hemorrhoids.
fights cancer – It’s very likely that chamomile tea can help reduce cancerous cells, although research is still ongoing to see exactly how chamomile reverses abnormal cellular growth.
