Chamomile is an annual herbaceous plant native to Europe and Western Asia, belonging to the Asteraceae family. It thrives in neutral, well-drained soils and requires abundant sunlight in order to develop its characteristic aromatic flowers. Today, it is cultivated worldwide and remains one of the most widely used medicinal and cosmetic plants.
The plant is easily recognised by its small white petals and yellow central disc, producing delicate flowers that are harvested during the flowering season, typically from late spring to early summer.
Several species are commonly referred to as chamomile, but only a few are used extensively in herbal medicine and cosmetic formulation.
The most important varieties are:
- German chamomile (Matricaria recutita), the most widely studied and used species
- Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), valued for its mild aroma and calming properties
- Moroccan chamomile (Tanacetum annuum), primarily used for essential oil production
The Greek name “chamomile” originates from the words chamó (ground) and milo (apple), referring to the apple-like scent released by the flowers.
Chamomile has been used medicinally since antiquity. Ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman physicians employed it mainly as a febrifuge, digestive aid and soothing remedy.
Hippocrates, Galen and Dioscorides documented its use for pain relief, digestive disturbances and inflammatory conditions. Throughout the Middle Ages, chamomile became a staple of European herbal medicine and monastic gardens, where it was cultivated for both internal and external preparations.
Its long-standing reputation as a gentle yet effective plant laid the foundation for its continued use in modern phytotherapy and cosmetics.
bioactive compounds and chemical profileChamomile owes its therapeutic value to a complex combination of bioactive constituents.
Its flowers contain:
- Flavonoids (especially apigenin)
- Coumarins
- Phenolic acids
- Tannins
- Sesquiterpenes
- Essential oils
- Polysaccharides
- Trace minerals
One of its most characteristic components is chamazulene, a blue compound formed during steam distillation of the essential oil. Chamazulene, together with bisabolol and bisabolol oxides, is responsible for much of chamomile’s anti-inflammatory and soothing activity.
These compounds act synergistically, enhancing each other’s stability and biological effects.
In traditional herbal medicine, chamomile has been primarily used for its calming, digestive and anti-inflammatory properties.
Internally, infusions were traditionally consumed to:
- support digestive comfort
- reduce bloating and mild cramps
- promote relaxation and sleep
- ease nervous tension
Externally, chamomile preparations were applied to:
- soothe irritated skin
- relieve minor burns and wounds
- calm inflamed mucous membranes
- reduce eye puffiness and discomfort
Modern studies support many of these traditional uses, particularly in relation to inflammation control, oxidative stress reduction and mild antimicrobial activity.
In cosmetic formulation, chamomile is valued for its exceptional skin compatibility and calming profile.
It is commonly used in:
- formulations for sensitive skin
- soothing serums
- baby care products
- after-sun formulations
- post-procedure skincare
- scalp treatments
Its extracts and infused oils help:
- reduce redness and irritation
- support barrier repair
- improve skin resilience
- relieve itching and discomfort
- balance reactive skin
In haircare, chamomile supports scalp comfort, enhances softness and contributes to overall hair vitality. It is often included in formulations for sensitive or stressed scalps.
Chamomile is available in several forms, depending on its intended use.
The most common include:
- dried flowers for infusions
- aqueous extracts
- alcoholic tinctures
- infused vegetable oils
- essential oil
- floral water (hydrosol)
In natural cosmetics, infused oils and standardized extracts are preferred, as they provide stability and consistent activity while remaining gentle on the skin.
Contemporary research has confirmed many of chamomile’s traditional applications.
Studies highlight its:
- anti-inflammatory activity
- antioxidant potential
- antimicrobial effects
- wound-healing support
- mild anxiolytic properties
Apigenin, in particular, has been studied for its interaction with central nervous system receptors, explaining chamomile’s relaxing effect.
In dermatology, chamomile continues to be investigated for its role in managing inflammatory skin conditions and supporting barrier function.
- Chamomile is one of the most widely consumed herbal teas worldwide.
- German chamomile contains higher concentrations of chamazulene than Roman chamomile.
- The blue colour of chamomile essential oil is formed during distillation, not in the fresh plant.
- Apigenin is one of the most researched flavonoids in medicinal plants.
- Chamomile is considered one of the safest botanical ingredients for delicate and sensitive skin.
Although chamomile is generally well tolerated, certain precautions are necessary.
It should be avoided by individuals with known allergies to plants of the Asteraceae family. Caution is also advised during pregnancy and in cases of specific medical conditions.
Internal use for therapeutic purposes should always follow professional guidance.
why chamomile remains a core botanical ingredientFrom ancient herbal traditions to modern cosmetic science, chamomile has maintained its role as a cornerstone plant for calm, balance and recovery.
Its unique combination of soothing, protective and regenerative compounds makes it indispensable in formulations designed for sensitive skin, reactive scalps and barrier repair.
Within the Herbarium, chamomile represents botanical reliability, offering gentle yet scientifically supported care for both skin and hair.
recipes with chamomile
