Everything You Need to Know About

Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)

Botanical family: Asteraceae
Parts used: Flowers
Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)
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Overview and Health Benefits

Roman chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) is a highly valued medicinal plant, particularly prized in aromatherapy for its essential oil. Known for its soothing properties, Roman chamomile essential is an excellent anti-inflammatory oil used to treat various ailments, such as insomnia, anxiety, and digestive issues . Scientific studies and centuries of traditional use support its effectiveness. The oil contains compounds like isobutyl angelate, chamazulene and bisabolol, which provide anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, making it beneficial for conditions like eczema, menstrual cramps, and muscle spasms (McKay & Blumberg, 2006; Zick et al., 2011).

Key Benefits:

  • Anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties
  • Anxiety and stress relief
  • Skin health
  • Sleep aid

Roman chamomile essential oil is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects (Worwood, 1991). Studies have shown that it helps reduce inflammation and alleviate pain (Zhao et al., 2014; Sah et al., 2022).

Roman chamomile essential oil is widely used for its calming effects on the mind and body. Inhalation or topical application can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, making it a popular choice in aromatherapy (Worwood, 1991).

The oil’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties make it beneficial for skin care. It helps in treating conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and minor wounds, promoting healing and reducing irritation (Akbar, 2020; Harfouch et al., 2019).

Known for its sedative properties, Roman chamomile essential oil can improve sleep quality. It is often used in aromatherapy and topical applications to help with insomnia and promote restful sleep (Worwood, 1991).

Safety Profile

Individuals with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family, such as ragweed, marigolds, and daisies, may experience allergic reactions to chamomile (Mills & Bone, 2013; Tisserand & Young, 2014). Moreover, like other essential oils, Roman chamomile essential oil may cause allergic reactions and sensitisation, although these reactions are rare. It is therefore important to perform a patch test before using products containing it for the first time. Apply a small amount of the product to a small tender area of skin, such as the bend of the arm, and leave for 24 hours. If any irritation or reaction occurs, wash with soap and water and discontinue use (Tisserand & Young, 2014). 

No hazards or contraindications are known for Roman chamomile essential oil (Tisserand & Young, 2014). It is generally recognised as safe, with no safety concerns regarding its main constituent, isobutyl angelate, based on current intake as a food flavouring (Crawford, 2013; Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives, 2003).

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Key Body Systems Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) relates to

Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)
Digestive System
Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)
Nervous system
Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)
Skin
Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)
Respiratory system

Energetics

Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)
Cooling
Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)
Drying

Key actions

  • Nervine
  • Antispasmodic
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Sedative
  • Vulnerary
Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)

Key uses

  • Stress and anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Headaches
  • Bloating and indigestion
  • Skin irritation

Where to Find Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)

Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)

Roman chamomile is notable for its aromatic, daisy-like flowers and finely divided, feathery leaves. The plant typically grows close to the ground, forming dense mats that can reach up to 30 cm in height. Its flowers, which bloom from late spring to early autumn, feature white petals surrounding a vibrant yellow disc, emitting a gentle, apple-like fragrance. 

It shouldn’t be confused with German chamomile – more often used in teas –, an annual plant that grows taller (up to 60cm), with a larger cone-shaped yellow centre. 

The plant thrives in temperate regions, particularly in Western Europe, where it is native. Countries such as England, France, and Germany are known for cultivating Roman chamomile extensively. The plant prefers well-drained, sandy soils and flourishes in full sunlight, although it can tolerate partial shade. It is commonly found in meadows, grasslands, and along field edges where the soil is light and well-aerated. 

References

Akbar, S. (2020). Chamaemelum nobile (L.) All. (Asteraceae/Compositae) (Syns.: Anthemis nobilis L.; A. odorata Lam.; Chamomilla nobilis (L.) Godr.; Matricaria nobilis (L.) Baill.). In Handbook of 200 Medicinal Plants (pp. 593–599). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-16807-0_63

Harfouch, R. M., Darwish, M., Al-Asadi, W., Mohammad, A. F., Gharib, N. M., & Haroun, M. (2019). Antibacterial activity of essential oils of Rosmarinus officinalis, Salvia officinalis, and Anthemis nobilis widespread in the Syrian coast. Research Journal of Pharmacy and Technology, 12(7), 3410-3412. https://doi.org/10.5958/0974-360X.2019.00576.6 

Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives. (2003). Isobutyl angelate. In Summary of evaluations performed by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives. https://inchem.org/documents/jecfa/jeceval/jec_1168.htm

Mills, S., & Bone, K. (2013). Principles and practice of phytotherapy (2nd ed.). Elsevier.

Sah, A., Naseef, P. P., Kuruniyan, M. S., Jain, G. K., Zakir, F., & Aggarwal, G. (2022). A comprehensive study of therapeutic applications of chamomile. Pharmaceuticals (Basel), 15(10), 1284. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph15101284

Tisserand, R., Young, R., (2014). Essential oil safety: A guide for healthcare professionals (2nd ed.). Churchill Livingstone Elsevier. 

Worwood, V. (1991). The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy. New World Library. 

Zhao, J., Khan, S. I., Wang, M., Vasquez, Y., Yang, M. H., Avula, B., Wang, Y. H., Avonto, C., Smillie, T. J., & Khan, I. A. (2014). Octulosonic acid derivatives from Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) with activities against inflammation and metabolic disorder. Journal of Natural Products, 77(3), 509–515. https://doi.org/10.1021/np400780n