Chamomile
Chamomile extract has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal for sensitive and irritated skin. It is highly favoured for formulations intended for children and infants. The extract contains bioactive compounds like chamazulene and bisabolol, which help reduce redness and calm skin irritations making it ideal for soothing skincare formulations.
INCI NAME
Chamomilla recutita flower extract, propanediol or glycerine, water
CHARACTERISTICS
Appearance: Golden yellow liquid
Solubility: Water soluble
pH range: 4.0 - 6.0
- Non-irritant
- Derived from nature
- Traditionally used
- Safe
- China compliant
USAGE
Use level: 3–7%
Shelf-life: 24 months
EFFICACY
- Antioxidant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti-microbial
- Soothing
- Calming
SOURCE
The chamomile flowers are grown in the Lydenburg district of South Africa in the cool zones near the summit of the Long Tom Pass. The plants are grown in the summer time and are not irrigated and water smart agriculture is practiced. No pesticides or herbicides are used in the cultivation of the precious flowers. The flowers are hand harvested and then shade dried on suspended nets to ensure ventilation without he loss of the sensitive volatile compounds. Once dried the flowers are vacuum packed and transported to Zuplex for extraction.
Traditional uses
Chamomile, with its delicate white flowers and gentle fragrance, has been treasured for its medicinal properties since ancient times. Dating back to ancient Egypt, chamomile was revered for its ability to soothe the skin and calm the mind. The Egyptians also used chamomile to cure ague and as an offering to their gods. Throughout history, chamomile has been utilised in traditional medicine as a remedy for various ailments, including digestive issues, insomnia, and skin irritations. In traditional European herbal medicine, chamomile tea was often consumed to alleviate stomach discomfort and promote relaxation. Additionally, chamomile poultices and compresses were applied topically to soothe skin irritations, such as rashes, eczema, and minor burns. The rich history of chamomile's traditional uses underscores its enduring reputation as a versatile botanical extract with a wide range of therapeutic benefits.
ACTIVE COMPONENTS
Chamomile extract, derived from the flowering tops of Chamomilla recutita, is a potent natural cosmetic ingredient boasting a rich array of bioactive compounds. Among these, chamomile is particularly prized for its high concentration of flavonoids, including apigenin, quercetin, and patuletin, which lend it potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Laboratory analysis reveals that chamomile extract contains approximately 0.3-1.5% essential oil, primarily composed of bisabolol and chamazulene, compounds renowned for their soothing and calming effects on the skin. Furthermore, studies have shown that chamomile extract exhibits significant antimicrobial activity, making it an ideal ingredient for skincare formulations aimed at promoting healthy, radiant skin.
CLAIMS
Chamomile extract is celebrated for its multifaceted biological activities, rendering it a prized ingredient in both pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Its rich array of bioactive compounds imbues it with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties, making it an ideal addition to skincare formulations. Studies have shown that chamomile extract possesses photo-protective qualities, guarding against the damaging effects of UV-radiation and helping to maintain skin health. Chamomile extract contains α-bisabolol and chamazulene which directly reduce inflammation and are mild anti-bacterials. Chamomile preparations are used in skin care products to reduce cutaneous inflammation and other dermatological disease. Its anti-inflammatory properties also lend themselves to addressing issues such as wound healing and dermabrasion of tattoos. Chamomile extract is the ideal ingredient for formulations targeting soothing and healing of the skin.