What it is
Chamomilla Recutita Flower/Leaf Extract is obtained from German chamomile, a daisy-family herb valued for its calming reputation. It contains flavonoids and other polyphenols, along with traces of the constituents responsible for chamomile's characteristic profile. In sunscreens it is typically a supporting botanical chosen for its soothing positioning rather than for sun protection.
Safety & warnings
Usually well tolerated, but chamomile belongs to the Asteraceae (daisy) family, so people allergic to ragweed, marigold, or related plants may occasionally react. Patch testing is reasonable for those with known Asteraceae sensitivity.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; a botanical extract from the flowers and leaves of Matricaria chamomilla (Chamomilla recutita), an annual herb in the Asteraceae family.
History
Chamomile has a long history in traditional European and Middle Eastern herbal use, which carries into its modern role as a calming cosmetic botanical.
Questions everyone asks
Is this the same chamomile used in tea?
It comes from German chamomile, the same species widely used for chamomile tea, but here it is an extract formulated for topical use.
Who should be cautious with it?
People allergic to daisy-family plants such as ragweed or marigold may want to patch test, since chamomile is botanically related.