Chamomile

What Does It Smell Like?

Chamomile smells like a soothing cup of herbal tea—soft, slightly sweet, with delicate apple-like undertones and a whisper of hay. Imagine dried flowers crushed between your fingers on a summer meadow: there's a gentle grassiness, almost woolly warmth, paired with subtle fruity notes reminiscent of dried apricots. It's comforting rather than bold, with an herbaceous quality that feels familiar and calming, like walking through a sunlit garden at golden hour.

Origin & History

Chamomile comes primarily from two species: Roman chamomile (*Chamaemelum nobile*) from Western Europe and German chamomile (*Matricaria recutita*) from Central Europe. The flowers are harvested and dried, then extracted via steam distillation or solvent extraction to create essential oils and absolutes. German chamomile yields a richer, more intensely aromatic oil, whilst Roman chamomile is subtler. The plant has been used medicinally for millennia—ancient Egyptians valued it for skincare, and European herbalists brewed it for digestive and calming remedies.

In Perfumery

Perfumers employ chamomile as a soothing, green bridge note that softens harsh accords and adds naturalness. It lends approachability and skin-friendliness to fragrances, particularly in fresh florals, gourmands, and wellness-inspired compositions. Its subtle sweetness and herbal depth prevent compositions from feeling too austere, whilst its familiar, tea-like character grounds modern perfumes in comfort.

Pairs Beautifully With

Featured In 34 Fragrances