Essential Oil of the Week: Roman Chamomile
- PAmela Sloop
- Apr 15
- 3 min read
Chamomile is one of the most ancient of all medicinal herbs. It has been widely used across the globe for centuries and can be found in everything from herbal tea to essential oils to skin care products. Pretty much everyone has heard of or tried Chamomile tea, but the chamomile essential oils have just as many benefits. There are two common types of Chamomiles used medicinally today. German Chamomile and Roman Chamomile. Roman Chamomile essential oil is steam- distilled from the small daisy like flowers of the Chamomile plant and has a sweet, fresh apple-like fragrance and fruity aroma, while German Chamomile has an herbier, hay like fragrance and is often used in tea. For this article we will focus on Roman Chamomile with its many benefits that fit in very well with women’s health and symptoms associated with menopause and perimenopause.
Some of Roman Chamomile essential oil’s benefits include:
Roman Chamomile, with its calming and relaxation-promoting properties, helps fight anxiety and depression as well as symptoms of insomnia. The best ways to use Roman Chamomile for relaxation and rest include using it in a diffuser or dropping some in a warm bath.
Roman Chamomile has powerful antioxidant and anti-microbial properties, making it a good natural allergy reliever. It can help thin mucous, decrease congestion and reduce seasonal allergy symptoms. The best way to use Roman Chamomile essential oil for allergy symptoms is in a diffuser.
Roman Chamomile can be very good in helping with symptoms of PMS and menstrual cramps. It helps PMS because it is a natural mood booster (this goes for menopausal mood disruptions also). It helps menstrual cramps and associated back pain because it is a natural anti spasmodic. For mood, a diffuser or in a roller with a carrier oil is best. For cramps and muscle pain, mix it with a carrier oil and apply it to the abdomen or back.
Roman Chamomile boosts skin health with its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help hormonal breakouts and acne, eczema, bruises, burns, poison ivy and other skin irritations. A few drops mixed with a face wash or mixed with carrier oil and applied with a cotton ball works great.
Roman Chamomile may relieve arthritic pain. Some studies have shown that the anti-inflammatories found in Roman Chamomile can penetrate tissues below the surface of the skin and reduce arthritic pain. You can apply it topically or mix it in a warm bath.
These are just a few of the benefits that this ancient essential oil can offer. There is even research on possible anti-cancer properties that look promising. There are some uses for the oils internally such as for digestion and gut issues, but I would never recommend doing this without first discussing with a healthcare professional. In addition, while Roman Chamomile is generally considered very safe, there are a few contraindications to note. You should not use it if you are on blood thinners or during pregnancy. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using it if you are on any medications or have health conditions.
My favorite resource for Roman Chamomile and other essential oils is Aromatics International. I personally use them and carry them in my spa. ( I am an affiliate for this company, so I may earn a small commission if you purchase through this link). I know their oils are of the highest quality and pure. Here is the link:
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