Chamomile is a soothing sleep aid and a remedy for upset stomachs. It’s also known for its amazing anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmolytic and anti-inflammatory properties. There are many types of Chamomile. German chamomile is also known as blue or Hungarian chamomile. A Moroccan variety of chamomile (Ormenis multicaulis) is actually another type that is grown in Morocco. Ormenis Multicaulis doesn’t have Tanacetum nuum’s true Moroccan chamomile, also known as blue tansy. Although each chamomile variety is unique, they share some similarities in appearance.
Roman chamomile is mostly grown in England. However, there are areas in the United States and continental Europe that can also distill the oil. Carlo Allioni, an Italian botanist who discovered Roman chamomile, put it in the genus Chamaemelum. He is also named Anthemis nobilis Chamaemelum nobile. This furthered the confusion surrounding chamomiles.
German chamomile, as most herbalists and botanists call it, is also known as blue chamomile. German chamomile is a wildflower that grows mainly in Germany. However, the blue or German chamomile, also known as chamomile, has been primarily distilled in Hungary for the past ten years. It still retains its name German chamomile.
Moroccan chamomile belongs to the Tansy botanical group and is similar to German chamomile because they both produce an ink-blue color when essential oils are used. Moroccan chamomile is the most chamazulene-rich of all the varieties. However, there are chamomiles with a name like Moroccan Chamomile. Because they are Moroccan chamomile, they are a Moroccan-grown variety of chamomile. True Tanacetum Annuum is true blue. It contains the highest levels of chamazulene. However, there are some concerns about Tanacetum Annuum also known as blue tansy oils. Tansy oil is not recommended for direct skin application as it has been alleged to be toxic. Aromatherapists rave about Tanacetumannuum’s wonderful benefits. The research on Tanacetum nuum’s general actions and constituents is incomplete. There is also not enough clinical data to draw any conclusions regarding safety and effectiveness.
Chamazulene, which is found in both Moroccan and German chamomiles, makes them blue and has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Chamazulene doesn’t show up in German Chamomile before the distillation process. This is because Chamazulene has been bound with glycoside Matricine (a sugar molecule) that is hydrolysed by steam distillation. The volatile azulenes are released and alpha-bisabolol, chamazulene and other components of chamomile oil become freed.
Both Moroccan and German Chamomile have been recognized for their anti-inflammatory properties. They can be used to treat allergies, dermatitis and eczema. German Chamomile is the most common choice for making chamomile tea. It is an excellent natural antihistamine for allergic reactions like hay fever, asthma, and hives. Caution: German chamomile that is brownish in color means it has been overheated during distillation, which can cause the loss of its chamazulene-rich blue color. This will reduce its healing and anti-inflammatory abilities.
Roman chamomile is also anti-inflammatory, but it is best known for its analgesic properties and sedative qualities. Roman chamomile has been shown to be mildly safe for children. It is especially good for those with insomnia or nervous sleep patterns. Roman chamomile is not only sedative, but it is also highly anti-spasmolytic. Roman chamomile, for example, can be used to stabilize severe asthma attacks until emergency care is available. Roman chamomile can also be used to treat anxiety, arthritis and anxious temperaments, muscle aches and pains and rheumatism. It is also useful for treating sleeplessness, nervous tension, PMS, stress and other conditions.
They share many similarities despite all the differences between the chamomiles. Some chamomiles have a greater effectiveness in treating insomnia than others, but all chamomiles can be used. Roman chamomile is the best for treating insomnia. However, all chamomiles are effective in treating eczema and other skin conditions such as eczema and rheumatism.
For more information about the health benefits of Roman and German chamomile or to find out which chamomile is best for your specific conditions, visit our online therapeutic reference or product profiles. Roman and German chamomile essential oils are gentle, non sensitizing and non-irritant. Each chemotype has its own benefits and uses. Chamomile is a sweet, herbal, and sometimes fruity scent. It is delicate, neutral and can be used in a diffuser, by placing a couple drops on a pillow, in the bath, or mixed into a non-scented massage oil or lotion to add a light, clean, and therapeutically-benefiting scent.
