Roman Chamomile
anthemis nobilis
SOOTHING - ANTI-INFLAMMATORY - ANTI-DEPRESSANT - SEDATIVER - ANTIOXIDANT
Chamomile is one of the most ancient medicinal herbs known to mankind. Many different preparations of chamomile have been developed over the years, and the most popular is in the form of herbal tea, with more than 1 million cups consumed per day, but many people don’t know that Roman chamomile essential oil is even more effective than tea and just as easy to use.
You can get all of the chamomile benefits from its essential oil by diffusing it at home or applying it topically to the skin, including its ability to calm the mind, relieve digestive issues, treat skin conditions, reduce inflammation and more. 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. 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. Roman chamomile essential oil serves as a natural mood booster that helps reduce feelings of depression. 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.
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. According to a 2005 study published in Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin, chamomile extracts exhibit benzodiazepine-like hypnotic activity. 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, cracked nipples, chicken pox, ear and eye infections, poison ivy, and nappy rash.
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 (chamomillarecutita) and Roman chamomile (chamaemelumnobile). 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.
Although it’s called “Roman” chamomile, its history as a celebrated and widely used herb extends far beyond Ancient Rome. Hieroglyphic records show that chamomile was used cosmetically for at least 2,000 years. Greek physicians prescribed it for fevers and female disorders. And although “Roman chamomile” was not the official name of the plant at the time, the term was given after it was seen sprouting around the Roman Colosseum in the 19th century. Chamomile was first cultivated in large quantities to be sold around the 16th century. Romans used chamomile to flavor drinks and in incense, as well as a medicinal herb to fight disease and promote longevity. Its healing qualities spread throughout Europe, and eventually the British brought chamomile plants to North America. Doctors throughout Europe and in the early settlements of America included chamomile in their medicinal bags because it cured pain, inflammation, allergies and digestive issues completely naturally and without side effects.