Cape Chamomile (Eriocephalus punctulatus) is a floral essential oil with a sweet, floral, herbaceous aroma and a heart note. Steam distillation from flowering tops, it is a versatile blending oil that pairs well with German Chamomile (Blue), Lavender, Bergamot (FCF). For topical use, keep dilution at or below 5%.
South African chamomile. Ester-rich (isobutyrate esters). Gentle profile similar to Roman chamomile.
Aroma & character
Aroma
Traditional aromatherapy associations
Traditional associations only — not medical claims or evidence of efficacy.
Properties
| Perfumery note | Heart |
| Aroma family | Floral |
| Chemical family | Ester |
| Material type | Essential oil |
| Extraction | Steam distillation |
| Plant part | flowering tops |
| Origin | South Africa |
| Blending factor | 7 |
| Volatility index | 3 |
| Tenacity (hours) | 6.0 |
Safety & dilution
| Max topical dilution | 5% |
| Max facial dilution | 2.5% |
| Pregnancy | No specific caution recorded |
| Nursing | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Children | Generally suitable, well diluted (from ~2 years) |
| Cats | Not recommended |
| Dogs | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
Evidence: Traditional.
For education only — not medical or veterinary advice. Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always patch-test and consult a qualified professional before use during pregnancy, on children, with pets, or with a health condition.
Plan safe amounts with our essential oil dilution calculator.
Blends well with
Compare Cape Chamomile with
Frequently asked questions
What does Cape Chamomile smell like?
Cape Chamomile has a sweet, floral, herbaceous, fruity aroma, classed as a floral oil with a heart note.
What is the safe dilution for Cape Chamomile?
For topical use, keep Cape Chamomile at or below 5%, and 2.5% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.
Is Cape Chamomile safe to use during pregnancy?
Our dataset records no specific pregnancy caution for Cape Chamomile. That is not the same as it being established as safe — always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any essential oil during pregnancy.
Is Cape Chamomile safe to use around children?
Cape Chamomile is generally considered suitable for children when well diluted (from around 2 years old). Consult a professional for young children.
Is Cape Chamomile safe around pets?
For cats — avoid; not considered safe; dogs — generally lower-risk when well diluted. Diffuse only in ventilated spaces and consult a veterinarian.
What does Cape Chamomile blend well with?
Cape Chamomile pairs well with German Chamomile (Blue), Lavender, Bergamot (FCF), Geranium, Clary Sage.