Camomile

Camomile (or chamomile) is a daisy-like flowering plant native to Europe and Western Asia. It is typically dried and used to make herbal infusions, commonly known as camomile tea. The plant's flowers are harvested and processed, often through drying, to preserve their characteristic aroma and flavour.

Camomile is primarily used to impart a delicate, floral, and slightly sweet flavour and aroma to food and drink. It is most commonly found in herbal teas and infusions, where it is valued for its calming properties. Manufacturers use it to create soothing beverages and sometimes add it to baked goods or desserts for a subtle floral note.

Camomile is not considered a food additive in the UK and therefore does not have an E-number or require authorisation on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. It is widely consumed as a beverage, and at typical intake levels, it is generally considered safe. While often associated with relaxation and sleep, scientific evidence for these effects is mixed, with some studies suggesting benefits and others finding no significant impact. Regulatory bodies like EFSA have evaluated camomile for various uses, but it is not subject to specific numerical limits for general consumption as a food ingredient.