Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract

What it is

An extract of German chamomile flower heads, containing bisabolol, chamazulene and flavonoids. It has a long history of use for calming irritated skin and is one of the most common botanical soothers in European formulations. Chamomile belongs to the Asteraceae (daisy) family, which matters for allergy.

What it does well

• Soothes the feel of irritated, reactive skin

  Chamomile's anti-inflammatory activity, largely attributed to bisabolol, is well documented in the lab and supported by long traditional use, though modern controlled cosmetic trials are limited.

  Traditional use

Worth knowing

• Contact allergy in people sensitive to Asteraceae plants

  Chamomile contains sesquiterpene lactones, a recognised cause of allergic contact dermatitis. People allergic to ragweed, arnica, mugwort or other daisy-family plants can cross-react.

  Matters most toAnyone with known Compositae/Asteraceae allergy, hay fever to ragweed or mugwort, or a past reaction to arnica or calendula.

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