Chamomile essential oil is backed by a growing body of research. Over time, it has been commonly used to address a range of health issues and complaints.
Essential oils are concentrated botanical extracts. They’ve gained widespread popularity for their possible therapeutic effects.
This article examines the potential advantages of chamomile oil and explains how to use it safely.
What’s the distinction between Roman and German chamomile?
Chamomile oil comes from the chamomile plant, which is actually a member of the daisy family. The oil is extracted from the plant’s flowers.
There are two main varieties you’ll encounter:
- Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile or Anthemis nobilis)
- German chamomile (Matricaria recutita or Chamomilla recutita)
The plants differ slightly in how they look, and their chemical profiles are not identical. Both types have been studied; chamazulene — a well-researched constituent — tends to be present in higher amounts in German chamomile.
What are the advantages of chamomile oil?
Chamomile has been noted in medical writings from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Through the ages, it has been used for:
- digestive troubles, such as indigestion, nausea, or gas
- wound healing, including ulcers and sores
- reducing anxiety
- soothing skin issues like eczema or rashes
- anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects for conditions like back pain, neuralgia, or arthritis
- supporting sleep
Contemporary research is beginning to clarify the health-promoting properties of chamomile oil and why it has long been used as a remedy. Below we look at these benefits more closely.
1. Digestive complaints
A 2014 animal study evaluated German chamomile extract in diarrhea models and found it offered protection against diarrhea and reduced fluid accumulation in the intestines.
A 2018 study examined the effects of topical, diluted chamomile oil on bowel function after cesarean delivery. Patients who had chamomile applied to the abdomen regained their appetite sooner and passed gas earlier than those who did not receive chamomile.
Another study tested Roman chamomile extract on segments of guinea pig, rat, and human intestine and observed muscle-relaxing actions. This may explain chamomile’s traditional use for indigestion and cramping.
2. Wound repair
A 2018 article investigated Roman chamomile extract on infected wounds in rats. Chamomile ointment demonstrated notably better wound healing and antibacterial effects compared with tetracycline ointment and placebo.
3. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
A 2017 trial evaluated short-term chamomile extract therapy for generalized anxiety. After eight weeks, 58.1% of participants reported improvements in anxiety symptoms.
Low morning cortisol has been associated with anxiety disorders. A small 2018 study found that chamomile treatment reduced anxiety symptoms and increased morning cortisol levels.
4. Depression
Depression commonly coexists with anxiety. One study administered oral German chamomile extract to people with both anxiety and depression.
After eight weeks, the chamomile group experienced a meaningful drop in depression symptoms. It’s important to note, however, that while chamomile extracts have been taken by mouth, chamomile essential oil should not be ingested.
5. Skin inflammation
A 2010 study assessed the effect of German chamomile oil on atopic dermatitis in mice via topical application.
Markers linked to allergic response were significantly lower in mice treated with chamomile oil compared with untreated controls.
6. Pain management
A 2015 study evaluated diluted chamomile essential oil applied to the skin for osteoarthritis. Participants applied the oil three times daily for three weeks.
Compared to those who didn’t use this therapy, people using chamomile oil required significantly less pain medication.
Another study examined topical chamomile for carpal tunnel syndrome; after four weeks, symptom severity scores were substantially lower in the chamomile-treated group than in the placebo group.
7. Sleep support
Chamomile is widely associated with improving sleep, and studies support this traditional use. When used as an herb, it’s commonly consumed orally.
In a study of 60 older adults, participants were split into two groups: one received chamomile extract capsules twice daily and the other a placebo.
By the study’s end, those who took chamomile showed a significant improvement in sleep quality versus the placebo group.
8. Anti-cancer activity
A 2019 study examined German chamomile extract against cancer cells in culture and found increased cancer cell death following treatment.
The same work also showed that chamomile extract reduced the ability of cancer cells to form new blood vessels — a process tumors need to survive.
Another recent study evaluated apigenin, a component of chamomile oil, and found that it both inhibited growth and induced death in a human cancer cell line.
How to apply chamomile oil
Now that you’re familiar with chamomile’s benefits, how can you safely use it at home? Common approaches include diffusing it for aromatherapy or applying it to the skin (properly diluted).
Aromatherapy uses
Inhaling chamomile may help with anxiety and sleep promotion. Use a diffuser or a diluted spray for inhalation.
- Diffusion. A diffuser disperses the vaporized oil aroma throughout a space. Follow the instructions that come with your diffuser when using chamomile oil.
- Spray. For a spray, dilute 10–15 drops of chamomile oil per ounce of water. Place the mixture in a glass spray bottle and shake before each use. Avoid plastic bottles, as essential oils can degrade plastic over time.
When using chamomile or any essential oil for aromatherapy, ensure the area is well ventilated. Take care not to expose pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, or pets to excessive essential oil vapor.
Topical uses
Chamomile oil can also be used on the skin, which may help with pain, digestion-related discomfort, or anxiety symptoms when applied appropriately.
Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil prior to skin contact. Options include coconut or jojoba oil. Examples of topical applications:
- Massage oil. Mix chamomile oil into a carrier oil for massage.
- Bath oil. Combine chamomile oil with a carrier oil and add to warm bath water.
- In lotion. Add 1–2 drops of chamomile oil to a body lotion or moisturizer and apply to the skin.
- Compress. Make a warm compress by soaking a cloth in warm water, adding 1–2 drops of diluted chamomile oil, and placing it on an achy area such as the back or abdomen.
For more information about topical uses and skin benefits, you may also find helpful resources on chamomile benefits for skin.
Possible side effects
Essential oils are highly concentrated and should not be ingested unless supervised by a trained professional. Some oils can be toxic. If you want to use chamomile internally, consider chamomile tea as a safer alternative.
Store chamomile oil out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion or exposure.
Chamomile can cause side effects and interact with certain medications, so be aware of the following risks.
Skin sensitivity
Some individuals may experience skin irritation from essential oils. To test for sensitivity, apply a small amount of diluted chamomile oil to the inside of your elbow before using it more broadly.
If you notice redness, itching, burning, or swelling, discontinue use immediately.
Allergic reactions
Allergy to chamomile is possible, particularly if you’re allergic to related plants such as daisies, ragweed, or marigolds.
In rare instances, a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) can occur and is a medical emergency. Warning signs include:
- difficulty breathing
- swelling of the throat
- coughing or wheezing
- tightness in the chest
- a rash
- vomiting
- diarrhea
Medication interactions
Chamomile may interact with medications such as cyclosporine and warfarin. If you take prescription drugs, consult your physician before using chamomile oil.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
If you are pregnant or nursing and want to use chamomile oil, talk with your healthcare provider first to determine if it’s safe for your situation.
Choosing chamomile oil
When shopping for chamomile or other essential oils, keep these tips in mind:
- Be cautious of exaggerated claims. The FDA does not regulate essential oils. Be skeptical of products that claim to cure or treat specific diseases.
- Check the Latin name on the label. This helps ensure you’re purchasing the specific chamomile type you want.
- Look for purity statements. The product should indicate it’s 100% essential oil; any dilution or additives should be listed.
- Smell before buying. If it doesn’t resemble the scent of chamomile, consider not purchasing it.
- Choose dark glass bottles. Light can degrade essential oils, so darker bottles help preserve them.
The bottom line
Chamomile oil is a traditional essential oil used for a variety of concerns — from digestive problems to wound care — and contemporary studies are uncovering additional potential benefits like improving mood, easing anxiety, and promoting sleep.
You can inhale chamomile via a diffuser, apply diluted oil to the skin, or add a few drops to a bath. Always follow safety guidelines for essential oils.
Consult your healthcare provider before using essential oils to address a medical condition.
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