Chamomile aromatherapy oil is a type of essential oil often used to induce a state of relaxation. It is very popular for its apple-like scent and therapeutic benefits. The petals of the chamomile flower are steam distilled to create essential, organic, blue oil. The resulting oil can be added to candles and perfumes, released into the air with a diffuser to calm the senses, or used to massage pain and stress away.
Chamomile comes from the Greek words meaning "earth apple." The scent of chamomile is usually subtle and sweet, although the effects of aromatherapy can be dramatic. The scent of the flower helps most people to naturally release stress and unwind. Chamomile aromatherapy oil is often combined with other essential oils, such as tea tree or lavender oil, to create a rub used by massage therapists and alternative healing centers.
There are two types of chamomile, and both are used in chamomile aromatherapy oil. One is originally Roman, and serves as an analgesic to reduce pain in muscles and to calm irritability. The other type of chamomile is German, and it is often used as an anti-inflammatory to help soothe joint and bone pain.
Using chamomile aromatherapy oil can lower blood pressure and is thought to be good for the liver. People with nervous tension or depression are said to find chamomile especially uplifting and relaxing. Chamomile oil also can constrict the blood vessels, which can help relieve pain; by diminishing the blood flow around a nerve, pressure and pain are relieved.
Many people enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy, and chamomile aromatherapy oil enjoys some of the most widespread use. The pleasing odor can enhance a bath, while the oil helps soothe and moisturize the skin. A massage using chamomile oil can be doubly relaxing, as the scent is combined with bodywork. Chamomile petals could be strewn around the house to please the eyes as well. After relaxing in the tub, a cup of chamomile tea could be enjoyed to help regulate digestion and relieve insomnia.
Aromatic oils have been used for centuries as a pleasing enticement. Cleopatra is said to have dowsed the sails of her ship with perfume oil to ensnare Marc Antony using one of the first perfumes, rose oil.
