What Is Chamomilla Recutita Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract?
Chamomilla Recutita Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract comes from the flowers, leaves and stems of German chamomile, a daisy-like herb known botanically as Matricaria chamomilla or Chamomilla recutita. While the plant has been brewed in calming teas for centuries, its soothing reputation soon made its way into skin care. The extract holds an array of plant compounds such as flavonoids, bisabolol, apigenin and chamazulene, molecules that are prized for their calming and conditioning effect on skin.
To create the cosmetic-grade extract, freshly harvested plant parts are dried, milled and then steeped in a food-grade solvent like glycerin, propylene glycol or a mix of water and alcohol. The liquid captures the active constituents and is later filtered and standardized so each batch offers consistent quality and potency.
Formulators add Chamomilla Recutita Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract to a wide range of products including daily moisturizers, after-sun lotions, sheet masks, anti-aging serums, soothing toners, baby care items and post-shave balms. Its gentle nature makes it a favorite in products designed for sensitive or easily irritated skin.
Chamomilla Recutita Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This botanical offers a straightforward yet valuable role in skin care formulas.
Skin conditioning: The extract helps calm visible redness, soften rough patches and improve overall skin feel. By lending its naturally soothing compounds to a product, it supports a healthier moisture barrier so skin looks smoother, feels more comfortable and is better prepared to handle environmental stress.
Who Can Use Chamomilla Recutita Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
This extract plays well with nearly every skin type. Dry or mature skin benefits from its conditioning feel while oily and combination complexions appreciate its light texture that will not clog pores. Those with sensitive or reactive skin often reach for formulas containing German chamomile because the plant’s flavonoids and bisabolol help dial down visible redness. The only group that may need extra caution are people allergic to ragweed or other members of the Asteraceae family since cross-reactivity is possible.
Because the extract is entirely plant based it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Most manufacturers use either water, glycerin or propylene glycol to draw out the active compounds; as long as the glycerin is vegetable sourced the finished ingredient remains free of animal derivatives.
Topical use is generally viewed as low risk for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should run any new skincare product past a qualified healthcare provider to be on the safe side.
Chamomilla Recutita Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract is not known to cause photosensitivity so daytime wear does not require extra precautions beyond your usual sunscreen. It also layers well with common actives such as niacinamide, ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical chamomile extracts vary from person to person. The issues listed below are only potential outcomes and are unlikely to occur for the average user when the ingredient is properly formulated.
- Allergic contact dermatitis
- Redness or stinging in individuals sensitive to ragweed or other Asteraceae plants
- Mild eye irritation if a product containing the extract migrates into the eyes
If you experience any adverse effect stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Chamomilla Recutita Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract contains mostly water-soluble flavonoids and small amounts of lightweight essential oil components so it does not leave an occlusive film on skin. Because it is supplied in dilute solutions such as water glycerin or propylene glycol it lacks the heavy lipids that typically clog pores. It is therefore considered non-comedogenic and is generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts. Only if the finished formula pairs the extract with highly comedogenic oils would pore blockage become a concern.
Summary
Chamomilla Recutita Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract works primarily as a skin-conditioning agent thanks to its bundle of flavonoids bisabolol apigenin and chamazulene. These compounds help calm visible redness soften rough spots and support the skin barrier so the surface feels smoother and more comfortable. Its mild nature has secured a place in many moisturizers toners after-sun products baby lotions and shaving balms although it is not as buzzworthy as trendier actives like vitamin C or retinol.
The ingredient is considered low risk for most users with the main caveat being potential cross-reactivity in those with ragweed allergies. Overall safety is high yet as with any new skincare ingredient it is smart to patch test a product before widespread use to rule out individual sensitivities.