Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract

Chamomilla recutita (matricaria) flower extract is used primarily for soothing/anti-inflammatory effects, typically at low concentrations, and is often well-tolerated in general populations. However, it contains sesquiterpene lactones and other botanically derived constituents that can trigger allergic contact dermatitis—especially in atopic patients or those sensitized to Asteraceae/Compositae plants—and this sensitization risk warrants a mild (not “very gentle”) irritancy rating for safety. Safety Notes: In mass-market leave-on products (lotions, toners, cleansers) chamomile extract is frequently used as a soothing claim ingredient at very low levels around 0.01–0.1%, especially when supplied as a diluted glycerin/propylene glycol extract. Mid-range use in calming serums and creams is commonly ~0.2–2% depending on extract strength, while consumer-available ‘high-chamomile’ botanical formulas and some single-extract serums can reach ~5–10% (typically still limited by extract solvent system, color/odor, and stability). Rinse-off products often sit toward the lower end because of brief contact time, but high botanical-load wash products can still approach the upper range when formulated with concentrated extracts.