There are many species of chamomile flowers, and they’re sometimes hard to differentiate from one another - even experts struggle! At Lush, we use two types, easily identifiable and well known in European folk medicine: the German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla syn. Matricaria recutita) which resembles a daisy, and the Roman chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) that looks like a fuzzy ball of white petals.

Originally white in colour, the German chamomile flowers release a blue pigment when distilled into an essential oil. This is due to an anti-inflammatory compound that forms during steam distillation, called chamazulene. Hence the name: chamomile blue oil.

- Soothing
- Antiseptic

The flowers’ oils are traditionally used in aromatherapy and are often associated with a calming aromatic experience when inhaled. They are often combined with lavender as they share similar fragrance profiles and complement each other’s scent.