Roman Chamomile Extract
Extract of Roman chamomile flowers. Contains chamazulene and α-bisabolol, mildly soothing. May allergenize people with Asteraceae sensitivity.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Traditional botanical soother. Topical clinical RCTs are limited; safety profile is good. Cross-reactivity with ragweed and other Asteraceae plants is possible.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Moderate
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination
- Use with caution
- Sensitive
About this ingredient
Roman chamomile extract (Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract) is an extract from the flowers of noble chamomile. A close but not identical relative of pharmacy chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla). Active compounds: α-bisabolol, chamazulene, essential oils, flavonoids. Where applied. Sensitive-skin products, infant creams, soothing toners, after-sun products, problem-skin masks (0.1-2%). In Spain in Mustela, Babé, Avène lines for infants and atopic skin. Evidence base. Less studied than Matricaria chamomilla. In vitro: anti-inflammatory action via cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase inhibition. Clinical topical RCTs in atopy and contact dermatitis show a mild effect comparable to 0.5% hydrocortisone (Patzelt-Wenczler 2000, n=72). Topical evidence quality is B/C. Safety. CIR confirmed chamomile extract safety (Final Report 2018). However, Roman chamomile is a known contact allergen for people with Asteraceae sensitivity (ragweed, mugwort, chrysanthemum, yarrow). In sensitized patients it causes contact dermatitis. A patch test is advisable before use on sensitive skin. Essential oil controversy. Some products contain not the extract but Roman chamomile essential oil – with a much higher allergenic potential due to linalool and limonene from the EU 26-allergen list. Distinguishing extract from essential oil matters. Pregnancy and lactation – topically safe. No cosmetic restrictions. Orally, chamomile in pregnancy is used with caution (theoretical uterine tone effect at high doses).
Frequently asked questions
Is Roman Chamomile Extract safe during pregnancy?
Roman Chamomile Extract is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Roman Chamomile Extract for?
Roman Chamomile Extract suits: normal, dry, oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive.
What is Roman Chamomile Extract and what does it do in cosmetics?
Extract of Roman chamomile flowers.
What's the INCI name for Roman Chamomile Extract?
The INCI name is Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract. It may also appear as: Roman Chamomile Extract.
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