CAS No: 8015-92-7 (Roman)
8002-66-2 (German)
68916-68-7 (Moroccan)
Meet the Chamomile Trio: Roman, German & Moroccan
There are three main types of Chamomile essential oil used in aromatherapy:
- Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis / Chamaemelum nobile)
- German Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
- Moroccan Chamomile (Tanacetum annuum), also known as Tansy Blue
Each of these oils shares ancient roots but differs in origin, composition, and scent. All belong to the Asteraceae family (once known as Compositae), and the essential oil is distilled from the flowers of the plant—those delicate, daisy-like blossoms brimming with healing potential.
Roman Chamomile
Native to Western and Southern Europe, Roman Chamomile is a low-growing plant that gives off a light, sweet aroma reminiscent of fresh apples and hay. Often considered the finest smelling among Chamomile oils, its gentle, fruity fragrance makes it a popular choice in perfumes and calming blends. Roman Chamomile blends beautifully with citrus and floral oils like Lavender, Bergamot, and Ylang-Ylang.
German Chamomile
Taller and wilder, German Chamomile grows in Central and Northern Europe, as well as parts of Asia. It is instantly recognizable by the deep blue hue of its oil, a color owed to its high content of chamazulene—a powerful anti-inflammatory compound. Its aroma is richer, with herbaceous and sweet-tobacco notes. German Chamomile is a star when it comes to skincare, thanks to its calming, cell-supporting properties.
Moroccan Chamomile
Despite its name, Moroccan Chamomile isn’t a true chamomile in the classical sense. Known as Tansy Blue, it has its own unique chemical profile and should not be used as a substitute for the Roman or German varieties. That said, it still offers remarkable benefits—particularly its chamazulene content, which lends it both its vibrant blue color and skin-soothing potential.
A Journey Through Time: Chamomile’s Healing Legacy
Chamomile has a legendary past. The ancient Egyptians revered it, dedicating it to their sun god Ra and using it in skincare, embalming, and even fever treatment. Roman soldiers used it in salves and incense, while Anglo-Saxons considered it one of their sacred herbs.
In the Middle Ages, Chamomile was scattered on castle floors during celebrations to freshen the air. Step on it, and the fragrant oils would release a wave of apple-like sweetness. It was even once a key ingredient in beer—before hops stole the spotlight.
By the 16th century, Chamomile was being cultivated in herb gardens across Europe and became a trusted remedy in the toolkits of early physicians in both Europe and the New World.
What’s Inside: The Chemistry of Calm
Chamomile essential oil is a cocktail of therapeutic compounds:
- Flavonoids like apigenin, luteolin, and quercetin: potent antioxidants that nourish and protect
- Terpenoids such as chamazulene and azulene: known for their anti-inflammatory, anti-allergy benefits
- Coumarins: natural compounds prized for their skin-enhancing properties
- Alpha-pinene, Myrcene, and Beta-pinene: aromatic components that support respiratory health and mental clarity
Among the three, German Chamomile contains the highest level of chamazulene, giving it not just a stunning blue tint but exceptional anti-inflammatory power.
Benefits & Uses: From Skin to Soul:
Relaxation & Mood Support
Chamomile oil is a staple in aromatherapy, revered for its calming aroma. Whether diffused, added to a warm bath, or used in massage, its scent can help melt away stress and tension.
Skincare Superhero
Gentle yet effective, Chamomile oil is ideal for sensitive skin. It helps soothe irritation, reduce redness, and improve skin tone. It can be paired with calendula oil or added to your favorite moisturizer for a glowing complexion.
Hair & Scalp Nourishment
Chamomile essential oil supports scalp health and can add softness and shine to your hair. A few drops in your shampoo or a DIY hair mask can make a noticeable difference.
Detox & Immunity
Chamomile encourages gentle perspiration, supporting the body’s natural detox process. Its antioxidant content also makes it a valuable ally for cellular health.
How to Use Chamomile Oil
- Aromatherapy: Add a few drops to your diffuser for a relaxing environment.
- Massage: Mix with a carrier oil like sweet almond or jojoba for a calming massage.
- Skincare: Blend with your moisturizer or serum to soothe and brighten skin.
- Hair Care: Add to shampoo or conditioner to revitalize hair and scalp.
Final Thoughts: A Bloom of Wellness
Chamomile essential oil isn’t just another fragrance—it's a piece of ancient wisdom distilled into a drop. Whether you're drawn to the sweet scent of Roman Chamomile or the bold blue hue of the German variety, this timeless botanical offers a natural path to peace, beauty, and wellness.
Add Chamomile essential oil to your daily ritual—and let its gentle strength transform your mind, body, and soul.
Organoleptic Properties of Oil Derived from Roman Chamomile:
- Physical Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow clear liquid
- Odor: Fruity, herbaceous, and slightly apple-like
Major Aroma Contributing Components to be known necessary for a fragrance developer:
Isobutyl Angelate(9-10%), Methallyl Angelate(9-10%), Isobutyl Isobutyrate(4-5%), Isoamyl isobutyrate(3-4%), 2-Methylbutyl isobutyrate(2-3%), 2-Methylbutyl-2-methylbutyrate(4-5%) and alpha-pinene(8-10%).
Organoleptic Properties of Oil Derived from German Chamomile:
- Physical Appearance: Inky-blue viscous colored liquid
- Odor: Strong, sweetish, warm-herbaceous odor
Major Aroma Contributing Components to be known necessary for a fragrance developer:
(E)-Beta-farnesene(45-50%), alpha-Bisabolol oxide A(32-35%), alpha-Bisabolol oxide B(8-10%), alpha bisabolone(4-6%) and chamzulene(3-4%).
Organoleptic Properties of Oil Derived from Moraccan Chamomile:
- Physical Appearance: Pale yellow to yellow liquid
- Odor: Fresh herbal camphoreous sweet cistus balsamic odor
Major Aroma Contributing Components to be known necessary for a fragrance developer:
Alpha-pinene(9-10%), limonene(3-4%), santolina alcohol(10-12%), pinocarvone(3-4%), trans-pinocarveol(5-6%), (E)-beta-farnesene(9-10%) and germacrene-D(5-6%).