Chamomile Powder

The international demand for chamomile oil has been steadily growing. As a result, the plant is widely cultivated in Europe and has been introduced in some Asian countries for the production of its essential oil.  Chamomilla L., Anthemis nobilis L., and Ormenis multicaulis Braun Blanquet and Maire belonging to the family Asteraceae is a natural and major source of “blue oil” and flavonoids. The oil used as a mild sedative and for digestion besides being antibacterial and fungicidal in action.

In addition to pharmaceutical uses, the oil is extensively used in perfumery, cosmetics, and aromatherapy, and in the food industry. Gowda et al. studied that the essential oil present in the flower heads contains azulene and is used in perfumery, cosmetic creams, hair preparations, skin lotions, tooth pastes, and also in fine liquors. The dry flowers of chamomile are also in great demand for use in herbal tea, baby massage oil, for promoting the gastric flow of secretion, and for the treatment of cough and cold. The use of herbal tea preparations eliminated colic in 57% infants. Because of its extensive pharmacological and pharmaceutical properties, the plant thus possesses great economic value and is in great demand in European countries.