NRIPL

CHAMOMILE OIL

Botanical Name

Mataricaria Chamomilla L.

Synonym

Family

Compositae (Asteraceae)

Local Name

Chamomile

English Name

Chamomile, Scented Mayweed

Plant Description

Chamomile is native of Europe. It is cultivated in the tropical regions of Nepal(below 1000m). It is an annual aromatic herb, reaching up to 60 to 90cm. The stem is much branched, hairless and fistular. Leaves alternate, finely dissected. Flowers are small, aromatic, size ranged from 1.3 to 2.0 cm across; flower heads have white peripheral ray florets and yellow tubular disc florets.

Extraction

Chamomile oil is extracted by steam distillation of the flowering heads (inflorescence) of Maricaria Chamomile

Uses

This plant has been used to treat various compaints regarding nervous dyspepsia, nervous bowel, tension, headache, Sleeplessness, especially for children. The oil is widely used in antiseptic ointments and in carminative, antispasmodic and tonic preparation. Similarly, it is used in manufacturing cosmetics and perfumery (such as high value perfume, hair care products, soaps etc). It is also used in flavouring food and beverages and used in manufacturing choclates, ice cream etc.