Chamomile is best known as a calming herbal tea, but it is also distilled into essential oils that are popular in skin care and relaxing blends. There are two main types, Roman and German chamomile, and they are different enough that it is worth knowing which one you are buying. This guide explains the differences and how to use chamomile oil safely.
Two plants, two oils
Roman chamomile
Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile, sometimes listed as Anthemis nobilis) is a low-growing perennial with small, daisy-like flowers. Its essential oil is pale yellow and has a sweet, fruity, apple-like scent. It is rich in compounds called esters, which give it its gentle aroma.
German chamomile
German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla, also listed as Matricaria recutita) is the plant usually used for chamomile tea. Its essential oil is a striking deep blue, which comes from a compound called chamazulene that forms during distillation. The scent is stronger, more herbal and slightly bitter. German chamomile oil also contains bisabolol, a compound often used in skin care products.
Other “chamomile” oils
You may also see Moroccan chamomile (Ormenis multicaulis), which comes from a different plant and has a different scent and chemistry. It is not a substitute for Roman or German chamomile.
What people use chamomile oil for
Chamomile oils are mostly used in two ways:
- For their scent. Roman chamomile’s soft, sweet aroma is popular in relaxing evening blends, often mixed with lavender or bergamot.
- In skin care. German chamomile oil, and bisabolol extracted from it, appear in creams and lotions made for sensitive or dry skin.
Research on chamomile essential oil itself is limited. Some small studies on chamomile aromatherapy and massage suggest it may help some people feel more relaxed, but the evidence is weak, and many studies look at chamomile tea or extracts rather than the essential oil. Chamomile oil should not be used as a treatment for skin conditions, anxiety, sleep problems or any other medical issue. Persistent skin problems or trouble sleeping are worth discussing with a doctor.
How to use chamomile oil
Diffusing
Add a few drops to a water-based diffuser, alone or with lavender, and run it for 30 to 60 minutes in a ventilated room. Roman chamomile is the more pleasant choice for diffusing; German chamomile’s strong herbal scent is an acquired taste.
On the skin
Always dilute chamomile oil before applying it. For adults, a 1 percent dilution (about 6 drops in two tablespoons, or 30 ml, of carrier oil) is a sensible starting point, and up to 2 percent for small areas. Jojoba, sweet almond and sunflower oil all work well as carriers. Do a patch test on the inner forearm and wait 24 hours before using it more widely.
Note that German chamomile’s blue color can tint carrier oils and may stain light fabrics.
In the bath
Mix 3 to 4 drops into a tablespoon of carrier oil or unscented bath product before adding it to the water, so the oil does not float undiluted on the surface.
Allergy warning
Chamomile belongs to the daisy family (Asteraceae), which also includes ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds and echinacea. People who are allergic to these plants may also react to chamomile, either on the skin or by breathing it in. Reactions range from itching and redness to sneezing and, rarely, more serious allergic reactions. If you have a ragweed or daisy allergy, it is best to avoid chamomile oil or ask your doctor first.
Other safety notes
- Do not swallow chamomile essential oil. Chamomile tea is a very different, much weaker product.
- Keep it out of reach of children, and see our guide to essential oils and kids before using it around them.
- Be cautious around pets, especially cats. Our guide to essential oils and pets explains why.
- If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication, check with your doctor before use.
- Stop using any oil that causes irritation.
For broader advice, see our essential oil safety rules.
Buying and storing chamomile oil
Chamomile oils are expensive because the flowers produce very little oil. Very cheap “chamomile” oil may be diluted, mislabeled or a different species, so check that the label shows the Latin name and the country of origin. Some sellers offer chamomile pre-diluted in jojoba oil, which is more affordable and ready to use on the skin; just be aware it will be much weaker than the pure oil.
Store the bottle tightly closed in a cool, dark place. German chamomile oil can lose its blue color and turn green or brown as it ages, which is a sign it is oxidizing and should be replaced.
Frequently asked questions
Which chamomile oil is better for relaxing blends?
Most people prefer Roman chamomile for relaxing blends because of its sweet scent. German chamomile is more often used in skin care.
Can I mix chamomile with lavender?
Yes. Chamomile and lavender essential oil are a classic pairing. Keep the total number of drops within the dilution guidance above.
Is chamomile oil safe for children?
Roman chamomile is often listed among the gentler oils for older children when it is well diluted, but avoid essential oils for babies and check with your pediatrician first.
Discover more from Essential Oils
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.