Two Major Therapeutic Actions For Chamomile Essential Oil

1:47 PM Posted by jo

Roman chamomile, Anthemis nobilis, and German chamomile, Matricaria recutita, are two useful and popular oils in aromatherapy. They are considered non-toxic and non-irritant. German chamomile are often used in skin care products and Roman chamomile is often used as a sedative for children. The antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory actions are the two major therapeutic actions of chamomile.

Antispasmodic action

Antispasmodics reduce muscular contractions and spasms in the bronchial tubes, blood vessels, the digestive system, the urinary tract, and in the uterus. The antispasmodic action of Anthemis nobilis, Roman chamomile, may be beneficial in asthma and other respiratory concerns since it may prevent spasms in the bronchial tubes by acting as a broncho dilator. Chamomile is most beneficial in a gentle massage or as inhalation, even though in asthma it is best to avoid steam inhalation. Steam inhalation can worsen the asthma. In crisis, its antispasmodic action may offer relief and can be inhaled straight from the bottle or a few drops can be put on a handkerchief. The ester isobutyl angelate is the constituent responsible for the antispasmodic action of Anthemis nobilis.

Anti-inflammatory action

German chamomile is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. it is the sesquiterpenes chamazulene, farnesene, azulene, and the alcohol a-bisabol in Marticaria recutita that are responsible for the anti-inflammatory action. Anti-inflammatory agents will reduce or even counteract inflammation. German chamomile is therefore said to be very efficient in inflammatory skin conditions such as dermatitis and eczema. Chamomile added to carrier oil can be can be used in gentle massage or added to ointments or cream.

Roman chamomile and German chamomile possess many similar properties but German chamomile is a better choice for skin problem. Chamazulene and bisabol give German chamomile strong anti-inflammatory properties. However, Roman chamomile is also an anti-inflammatory agent. It has also been known to cause contact dermatitis and should be used with caution if allergic to ragweed or other plants of the Asteraceae family.

Contraindications

Contraindications: Avoid Roman chamomile during the first trimester of pregnancy. A skin patch test should be performed. Caution if allergic to ragweed. German chamomile is non-toxic, non-sensitive, and non-irritant.

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Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives
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