“Peter was not very well during the evening. His mother put him to bed, and made some chamomile tea: "One table-spoonful to be taken at bedtime.”
― The Tale of Peter Rabbit
When Beatrix Potter cited the healing powers of chamomile in the beloved Tale Of Peter Rabbit, this was far from the first time the daisy-like flower’s calming properties had been promoted.
Ancient Egyptians saw chamomile as a sacred flower associated with the sun god Ra and used it in offerings and as a cure for ailments. In mediaeval Europe, chamomile was strewn on the ground at festivals to create a fragrant, calming atmosphere, and it was said to have the power to ward off bad energy. The plant was also known as "the plant’s physician" in folk medicine because it was believed to heal other plants growing nearby.
Chances are, you've already heard of the calming power of chamomile - you may even take chamomile tea like our favourite fictional bunny, Peter. Or you might burn chamomile incense in the evenings to create a soothing aroma. Some even apply the oil to the temples when a headache looms or anxiety strikes. Yes, chamomile is a well-known and much-used essential oil but you may not know why it's in many skincare products, including mine.
So, let’s delve, my lovelies, into the origins, the rise, and the everlasting magic of chamomile -
The Origin of Chamomile Oil
The word "chamomile" comes from the Greek word chamaimēlon, meaning "ground apple" - perhaps a nod to the plant's apple-like fragrance.
Chamomile thrives in Mediterranean climates but can be found across Europe and Asia. Unlike many essential oils, the power of chamomile is distilled not from seeds or kernels but from the flowers of the plant.
Extracted from the tiny, delicate, golden blooms, this oil has found its way into countless skincare routines, offering gentle nourishment for the skin.
The Science Behind Chamomile
Chamomile oil is packed with beneficial compounds, making it a favourite in the worlds of medicine, holistic wellbeing and skincare. The main components include bisabolol and chamazulene, which have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.
Bisabolol, found in high concentrations in both German and Roman chamomile, is known for its ability to reduce inflammation and stimulate healing. Chamazulene, particularly abundant in German chamomile oil, adds to the oil's ability to soothe irritation and inflammation.
The Benefits of Chamomile Oil in Skincare
The anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties of chamomile make it an ideal ingredient in skin remedies, which is why its use has been traced to ancient civilisations and is still used today.
Calming and Anti-Inflammatory
Chamomile oil’s calming properties are legendary. It’s highly effective in reducing skin redness, irritation, and inflammation. Whether you have sensitive skin, struggle with acne, or suffer from conditions like eczema or rosacea, chamomile oil provides soothing relief, helping to restore balance to your complexion, calm irritated skin, reduce redness, and provide comfort to those with allergies or skin sensitivities. Which is why chamomile is a key combating force in my Radiance Collection for rosacea-prone skin.
Gentle Hydration
Chamomile oil is known for its ability to provide deep hydration without clogging pores. Its lightweight texture makes it an excellent moisturiser for all skin types, especially sensitive or reactive skin. It helps to lock in moisture, leaving the skin feeling soft and supple. Its deep moisturising abilities made it an obvious choice when I formulated my foot cream - The Sleepy Joyce. In this sleep-inducing relaxant for the feet, chamomile and lavender work in harmony to calm, heal and hydrate tough, worn-out skin tissues in need of some TLC.
Healing and Regenerative
Thanks to its high concentration of bisabolol, chamomile oil promotes skin healing and regeneration. It helps to speed up the recovery of minor wounds, acne scars, and other skin damage, making it a great choice for improving skin’s texture and tone.
The antioxidants also work to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage, keeping your skin looking youthful and radiant.
Types of Chamomile Oil
Chamomile oil comes in several varieties, each with its unique characteristics and uses. While all types of chamomile offer incredible skincare benefits, the differences between them are important, especially when choosing the right oil for your unique skincare needs.
German Chamomile Oil
German chamomile is known for its deep blue colour, which comes from the presence of chamazulene. This compound is produced during the steam distillation process and is a powerful anti-inflammatory, making it especially effective for irritated or sensitive skin, which is why it’s ideal for my Radiance facial oil and face cream for rosacea-prone skin.
Chamomile Blue Oil
Another essential in my Radiance collection is chamomile blue oil. Known for calming irritated skin and reducing redness, this variety is particularly popular in treating skin prone to inflammation.
Roman Chamomile Oil
Roman chamomile has a sweeter, lighter fragrance compared to German chamomile. While it doesn’t have the same vivid blue colour, Roman chamomile is highly valued for its gentle, calming effects. It’s often used to soothe sensitive skin and is particularly effective in calming the mind, making it a favourite for aromatherapy as well as skincare. Roman chamomile works wonders on dry, flaky skin, hence its inclusion in my magical foot cream - The Sleepy Joyce.
Why Is Chamomile An Essential Oil?
Whether it’s the vibrant blue of German chamomile or the sweet, calming Roman chamomile, this essential oil is truly one of nature’s most powerful ingredients for skincare. As a gift from ancient times that continues to prove its worth today, chamomile oil remains a timeless essential for calm, placid and soothed skin.