Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract

Anthemis nobilis (Roman chamomile) flower extract is used at low concentrations as a soothing/anti-inflammatory botanical, but it contains sesquiterpene lactones and other plant constituents that are recognized causes of allergic contact dermatitis, especially in atopic or highly reactive patients and those with Asteraceae (Compositae) sensitivity. Clinical patch-test literature and case reports consistently show that “calming” chamomile extracts can still sensitize or flare eczema, and risk increases with leave-on use and cumulative exposure in multi-botanical formulas. Given the non-trivial sensitization potential despite low typical use levels, a mild irritancy score is warranted for patient safety. Safety Notes: In mass-market and dermatological skincare, Anthemis Nobilis (Roman chamomile) flower extract is frequently used as a label-level soothing botanical at very low levels (often ~0.0001–0.05%) due to potent odor/color contribution and because many supplier extracts are pre-diluted in solvents/glycerin. In leave-on products positioned for calming/redness relief (toners, serums, creams) and in some “botanical-heavy” indie formulations, total use levels commonly reach ~0.1–2%, with the highest observed OTC consumer products using around 3–5% of the commercial extract (not essential oil), typically requiring preservation/solubilization control to manage stability and sensitization risk. Rinse-off cleansers/shampoos tend to sit toward the lower end versus leave-on soothing products, where higher levels are more feasible/marketed.