Camomile oil

What is chamomile oil and how does it work?

Chamomile oil is a yellowish to greenish oil with a sweet, floral scent. It contains various ingredients that have a healing effect. These include, among others:

• Bisabolol: This substance has an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect and promotes wound healing.
• Chamazulene: This substance also has an anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic and soothing effect on the skin.
• Flavonoids: These substances have an antioxidant effect, protect the cells from free radicals and strengthen the immune system.

Chamomile oil can be used for various purposes in dogs, for example

• Skin care: chamomile oil can help with skin irritations, eczema, itching, dandruff or dry skin. It cares for the coat and gives it a shine.
• Insect repellent: Chamomile oil can act as a natural insect repellent and keep ticks, fleas and mosquitoes away.
• Digestive support: Chamomile oil can help with gastrointestinal complaints such as cramps, flatulence or diarrhea. It soothes the mucous membranes and promotes digestion.
• Stress reduction: Chamomile oil can have a calming effect on nervous or anxious dogs. It relaxes the muscles and promotes sleep.

How do you use chamomile oil on your dog?

Chamomile oil is a very concentrated oil that should not be applied pure to the skin or in the mouth. It must always be diluted with a carrier oil, for example coconut oil, almond oil or olive oil. The recommended dilution ratio is around 1:10, i.e. one drop of chamomile oil to ten drops of carrier oil.

Depending on the intended use, you can apply the diluted chamomile oil in different ways:

• Topically: You can apply the oil directly to the affected skin area and gently massage it in. Make sure that your dog does not lick or scratch the oil. You can also add a few drops of the oil to his shampoo or conditioner and give him a bath.
• Oral: You can draw up the oil in a food syringe and put it in your dog's mouth. Alternatively, you can mix a few drops of the oil into his food or offer him chamomile tea. The dosage depends on the size and weight of your dog, but as a guideline you can use about one drop per 5 kilograms of body weight.
• Aromatic: You can use the oil in a room diffuser and create a pleasant atmosphere for your dog. This can be particularly helpful in stressful situations such as thunderstorms, fireworks or car journeys. Make sure that your dog can leave the room at any time if he wants to.

What should you look out for when using chamomile oil?

Camomile oil is generally well tolerated by dogs, but there are a few points you should bear in mind:

• Quality: Only use high-quality chamomile oil from organic cultivation and without additives. Pay attention to the label and choose an oil made from true chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) or Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile).
• Tolerance: Test the oil on a small area of your dog's skin before the first application and observe whether he has an allergic reaction. If you are unsure, ask your vet for advice.
• Caution: Avoid contact with your dog's eyes, ears or mucous membranes. If your dog accidentally swallows or inhales the oil, seek veterinary advice immediately.
• Contraindications: Do not use chamomile oil on pregnant or lactating bitches, puppies under six months of age or dogs with liver or kidney problems. Chamomile oil can also influence the effect of medication, so you should inform your vet if your dog is given chamomile oil.