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What is Chamomile Aromatherapy Oil?

T. Forsythe
T. Forsythe

Chamomile aromatherapy oil is a type of essential oil often used to induce a state of relaxation. It is very popular for its apple-like scent and therapeutic benefits. The petals of the chamomile flower are steam distilled to create essential, organic, blue oil. The resulting oil can be added to candles and perfumes, released into the air with a diffuser to calm the senses, or used to massage pain and stress away.

Chamomile comes from the Greek words meaning "earth apple." The scent of chamomile is usually subtle and sweet, although the effects of aromatherapy can be dramatic. The scent of the flower helps most people to naturally release stress and unwind. Chamomile aromatherapy oil is often combined with other essential oils, such as tea tree or lavender oil, to create a rub used by massage therapists and alternative healing centers.

Chamomile aromatherapy oil.
Chamomile aromatherapy oil.

There are two types of chamomile, and both are used in chamomile aromatherapy oil. One is originally Roman, and serves as an analgesic to reduce pain in muscles and to calm irritability. The other type of chamomile is German, and it is often used as an anti-inflammatory to help soothe joint and bone pain.

Using chamomile aromatherapy oil can lower blood pressure and is thought to be good for the liver. People with nervous tension or depression are said to find chamomile especially uplifting and relaxing. Chamomile oil also can constrict the blood vessels, which can help relieve pain; by diminishing the blood flow around a nerve, pressure and pain are relieved.

Chamomile aromatherapy oil may help treat insomnia.
Chamomile aromatherapy oil may help treat insomnia.

Many people enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy, and chamomile aromatherapy oil enjoys some of the most widespread use. The pleasing odor can enhance a bath, while the oil helps soothe and moisturize the skin. A massage using chamomile oil can be doubly relaxing, as the scent is combined with bodywork. Chamomile petals could be strewn around the house to please the eyes as well. After relaxing in the tub, a cup of chamomile tea could be enjoyed to help regulate digestion and relieve insomnia.

Aromatic oils have been used for centuries as a pleasing enticement. Cleopatra is said to have dowsed the sails of her ship with perfume oil to ensnare Marc Antony using one of the first perfumes, rose oil.

Discussion Comments

StormyKnight

@dega2010: Chamomile also contains other chemical compounds such as bisabolol. Bisabolol acts as an antispasmodic. Basically, that means that it helps to relax your smooth muscles that are lined along your digestive tract and your uterus. It helps to ease stomachache that you may experience after eating. It also helps soothe menstrual cramps.

For people who suffer from arthritis, it is beneficial to have a couple of cups of chamomile tea every day. Chamomile contains anti-inflammatory powers and can sometimes aid in the pain suffered from arthritis.

WaterHopper

@dega2010: Chamomile actually contains a chemical that is called Apigenin. This is the part that helps in calming down the central nervous system. It enables you to have a comfortable and peaceful sleep. A cup of chamomile tea is great before you go to bed to help relax you.

You can also add chamomile to your bath water. Run a warm bath and add about 10 drops of chamomile oil. It will help you to relax and get a good night sleep.

dega2010

What exactly is in Chamomile that gives it such a calming effect? I have some chamomile essential oil but I've never used it.

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    • Chamomile aromatherapy oil.
      By: wasansrisawat
      Chamomile aromatherapy oil.
    • Chamomile aromatherapy oil may help treat insomnia.
      By: bramgino
      Chamomile aromatherapy oil may help treat insomnia.