Roman Chamomile
(Anthemis noblis)

The historians tell us, that the Egyptians dedicated this herb to the sun since it cured fevers (heat) and that their priests used it often to soothe nervous complaints. Other references relate to it being a moon herb because of its cooling effect!

In more recent times, Chamomile tea remains popular throughout time and is often recommended to promote sleep and aid digestion. It has also been used extensively for cosmetics and perfumes.
(cold chamomile tea bags can help to soothe tired itchy eyes)

Note: Middle.

Properties
Analgesic. Antidepressant. Antiseptic. Carminative. Digestive. Diuretic. Emollient. Sedative. Contains Azulene (a powerful anti inflammatory agent though not as much as German Chamomile. Azulene give the oil its blue colour (though again not as deep as German Chamomile)

Precautions
An emmenagogue so should be avoided in the early stages of pregnancy.

Mind
A soothing oil, easing anxiety, tension, anger and fear. Promotes relaxation and can be useful for insomnia (particularly when combined with lavender)

Body
Found to help to ease muscular pain
(Although German Chamomile is documented to be better as an anti-inflammatory)
Can be useful for back pain, headaches, earache and toothache.
(A good choice for young and elderly) It helps to soothe the stomach and often helps to relieve wind, diarrhoea and vomiting.

Skin
Helps to soothe burns, blisters, and dry itchy skin. Often a first choice for clients with eczema, psoriasis and sensitive skin. An excellent cleanser of the skin and can help ease puffiness. (Try Chamomile tea bag!)

A fruity apple like fragrance it blends well with Benzoin Bergamot, Geranium, Jasmine, Lavender, Neroli, and Rose & Ylang Ylang.

A good oil for a holiday first aid kit especially for the stomach and the skin and a good oil for the young and elderly alike.

Recipes

Rashes – 30ml natural base cream or oil, 5 drops Chamomile, 4 drops Benzoin, 3 drops Sandalwood.

Dermatitis 30ml natural base cream or oil, 4 drops Chamomile, 3 drops Lavender,
3 drops Benzoin

Burns (Including sunburn) - 30ml base cream or oil. 6 drops Lavender, 4 Drops Chamomile, 3 drops Geranium.

Relaxing - 30ml natural base cream or oil, 5 drops Rose, 4 drops Roman Chamomile

All of the above can be diluted into a carrier oil or milk for use in a bath.

A tonic for fair hair- add 7 drops of Chamomile and 5 drops of Lemon to 30ml of a oil such as Jojoba or Coconut, massage well into hair and scalp, wrap in warm towel. Leave for as long as possible (or at least a couple of hours) wash with mild shampoo.

Gardeners Hint
Watch out for Red Dear and rabbits. They do tend to have a nibble at it.