Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Oil

What is Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Oil?

Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Oil is the essential oil extracted via steam distillation from the flower heads of Matricaria recutita, an annual herb known as German chamomile native to Europe and temperate Asia. This deep blue volatile oil owes its color and properties to sesquiterpenes like chamazulene and alpha-bisabolol, along with monoterpenes and esters that deliver a sweet, apple-like herbal aroma. In cosmetics, it functions as a fragrance ingredient to define scent profiles and mask off-notes from other components. As a skin conditioning agent, it helps preserve moisture balance for a supple feel. Its tonic role contributes refreshing qualities, while masking neutralizes unwanted odors. Typically added in small amounts to emulsions, serums, and rinse-off products for sensory optimization without dominating the formula.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 2 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Fragrance ingredient

Contributes scent character and/or masks base odors, shaping the overall sensory experience of the formula (subject to allergen and IFRA considerations).

Skin conditioning agent

Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.

Masking

Reduces perception of unpleasant odors or tastes by neutralizing them or covering them with more acceptable sensory notes.

Tonic

Supports a light, toning after-feel—often combining mild astringency, refreshing solvents, and humectants—to prep skin and refine sensory finish.

Benefits

Delivers a natural herbaceous scent that elevates the product's sensory profile.

Supports skin softness and flexibility through conditioning action.

Provides a light toning finish and helps cover base odors effectively.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit	Who Should Avoid
Those preferring plant-based fragrances in daily skincare routines.	People with allergies to Asteraceae family plants like ragweed.
Individuals with normal or dry skin seeking added suppleness.	Those sensitive to essential oils or fragrances.
Users desiring refreshed sensory experiences from natural tonics.	Individuals prone to contact dermatitis from herbal extracts.

Safety Notes

Low overall hazard rating with EWG score of 2.
Non-comedogenic at rating 0, suitable for pore-friendly formulas.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Oil

What is Chamomilla Recutita Flower Oil?

Steam-distilled essential oil from German chamomile flowers, rich in bisabolol and chamazulene for aroma and conditioning.

Is it irritating to skin?

Generally low irritation potential, though those with plant allergies should patch test.

What roles does it play in cosmetics?

Fragrance provider, skin conditioner, odor masker, and tonic for sensory enhancement.