Chamomile essential oils come in three distinct types. German and Roman chamomile are those generally used in aromatherapy.
Maroc or Moroccan chamomile is also available, but this is said not to be a “true chamomile”, and has completely different properties, though they are all members of the same botanical family. If you are starting out in aromatherapy, you should probably buy either the German or Roman type.
Confusingly, both Moroccan and German chamomile are sometimes called wild chamomile, so as with remedial herbs, it’s best to check the latin name in this case or where the label just says “chamomile”.
So here’s a breakdown of the three types and their properties:
German chamomile essential oil is extracted from the flowers of Matricaria recutita (previously called Matricaria chamomilla or Chamomilla recutita). Most of the plants cultivated for extraction are grown in Hungary and eastern Europe, rather than in Germany.
It can be used for acne, allergies, arthritis, boils, burns, chilblains, dermatitis, earache, eczema, inflammation, inflammatory diseases, insomnia, menstrual problems, migraine, muscle pain, nervous tension, psoriasis, sprains, toothache and small wounds.
Roman chamomile essential oil is an extract from the flowers of Chamaemelum nobile (previously called Anthemis nobilis). The plant can be found growing wild across Europe and North America, although it is native to southern and western Europe.
It is used for all the same purposes as German chamomile.
Moroccan chamomile essential oil is extracted from the flowering tops of Ormenis multicaulis (sometimes called Ormenis mixta or Anthemis mixta). Plants used for extraction mainly come from north west Africa and southern Spain.
It is used for amenorrhea (no periods), colic, colitis, dysmenorrhea (painful periods), headache, insomnia, irritability, liver congestion, menopause, migraine, sensitive skin, spleen congestion and sunburn.
Moroccan chamomile essential oil is not suitable for use on children under 13 years of age, pregnant women or anyone trying for a baby.
As you can see, it’s not really worth buying both the German and Roman types, though you could add Moroccan chamomile essential oil if you wish to treat the conditions it is used for.
Where to get your chamomile oils
Here’s my list of suggested suppliers for good quality chamomile essential oil in your area.
StarWest Botanicals
Blue Chamomile Essential Oil (German) 1/3 ounce bottle. $42.92
Chamomile Moroccan Essential Oil 1/3 ounce bottle. $29.92
Chamomile Roman Essential Oil 1/3 ounce bottle. $25.42
Amphora Aromatics UK (prices inc. VAT at 20%)
Chamomile Maroc Essential Oil 10ml. £8.38
Chamomile Roman Essential Oil 10ml. £14.09
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