Azulene is a constituent of the volatile oil obtained by steam distillation from Chamomile, Anthemis nobilis (Roman Chamomile), Achillea millefolium (Yarrow), or Tanacetum anuum (Blue tansy), and it is distinguished by it’s spectacular blue colour. Azulenes are unsaturated blue hydrocarbons, isomers of naphthalene. Chamomile contains a wide variety of active constituents. Each one of these constituents expresses a specific action but the fascinating holistic effect is the result of all of the components working together. The main constituents in the oil from chamomile are alpha-bisabolol and chamazulene, sesquiterpene derivatives. Other beneficial substances are present as well, primarily apigenin and a number of other flavonoids.
Benefits: In clinical studies Azulenes and bisabolol have been shown to exhibit dramatic anti-inflammatory effects and Chamazulene showed significant antioxidant protection. In practical terms this means that application of these natural substances will help to prevent skin blemishes from developing and will help stop deterioration of skin cells that leads to wrinkles, fine lines and pigmentation.
Quotes: “With a large list of recent basic research accruing, chamomile is a perfect example of a herb having diverse therapeutic uses.” “Chamomile preparations are widely used in skin care products to reduce cutaneous inflammation and other dermatological diseases.” George Nemecz, Ph.D., U.S.Pharmacist/Herbal Pharmacy
Chamomile soothes, heals, combats inflammation and stimulates cell regeneration. German Chamomile is the variety most widely used in skin treatment; it is rich in a fatty substance called azulene which has extraordinary healing, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory powers. Barbara Griggs, author of “The Green Witch – A Modern Woman’s Herbal” and Green Pharmacy.
