The anti-inflammatory agents in chamomile, an herb used for centuries to speed wound healing and prevent infection, may help reduce the facial redness of rosacea. The persistent flushing and skin sensitivity of rosacea have prompted many people with this condition to try herbal preparations to relieve their symptoms. Although clinical evidence has not confirmed that chamomile can treat this inflammatory skin disease effectively, topical preparations made with chamomile may help diminish your rosacea symptoms, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Inflammation
Rosacea can redden the skin around your cheeks, nose, chin and forehead and make your skin highly sensitive to sunlight, extreme temperatures or certain foods and beverages. More advanced cases of the disease may cause pus-filled papules to form on reddened areas. Foods, beverages or environmental conditions that increase blood flow to your skin may trigger rosacea flareups. When used as prescribed, medicated facial cleansers, sunscreens and topical antibiotic or anti-inflammatory creams may help temporarily soothe the irritation and inflammation of rosacea and prevent flareups. However, this chronic condition has no permanent cure.
Uses
The flowers of the chamomile plant, or Matricaria recutita, have been used for centuries to cleanse wounds, prevent infection and soothe inflammation of the skin, according to Drugs.com. Topical creams containing 3 to 10 percent chamomile have been used to treat inflammatory skin conditions, such as atopic eczema, and may be as effective as some hydrocortisone creams at reducing skin inflammation. Topical preparations containing chamomile may also relieve the inflammation of rosacea without irritating sensitive skin.
Active Agents
In an article published in the January 2009 issue of "The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology," Dr. Alison Stallings reports that botanical preparations, including creams or ointments made with German chamomile, may reduce the flushing of rosacea and make fragile, sensitive skin more moist and resilient. Chamazulene and levomenol, two of the active agents in chamomile, have anti-inflammatory properties, according to Stallings. In addition to relieving redness, levomenol may also increase the elasticity of your skin, improve its texture and help your skin retain moisture.
Precautions
Topical products made with chamomile may cause a rash, conjunctivitis or an allergic reaction. The AAD advises that you avoid using chamomile if you have an allergy to ragweed. To prevent interactions, you should not use chamomile preparations while using other topical rosacea treatments. Consult your health-care provider for instructions on the safe application of chamomile or other botanical products for rosacea.
