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Chamomile Flower Glycerite Liquid Extract

Also known as: Matricaria chamomilla L., German chamomile, Chamaemelum nobile (L.) All., Roman chamomile, Chamomile glycerite, Chamomile liquid extract, Matricaria chamomilla

Overview

Chamomile glycerite is a concentrated liquid extract derived from chamomile flowers, utilizing glycerin as the primary solvent. It is commonly used for its potential anxiety-relieving, sleep-supporting, anti-inflammatory, and digestive aid properties. The extract contains key constituents such as flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin), coumarins (herniarin), terpenes (α-bisabolol), and volatile oils (chamazulene). While traditional use of chamomile is extensive, modern research specifically on the glycerite form is somewhat limited, with most studies focusing on aqueous or alcoholic extracts. Chamomile has a strong historical precedent in Greco-Roman and Egyptian medicine. The glycerite form is an alcohol-free alternative, making it suitable for children and individuals sensitive to alcohol. However, it may extract fewer terpenes compared to ethanol-based preparations. Products should be standardized to flavonoid content (≥0.5% apigenin) and undergo third-party purity testing.

Benefits

Chamomile glycerite offers several potential health benefits. It may reduce anxiety, with studies on chamomile tea/extract showing a 50-60% reduction in GAD-7 scores compared to placebo. Clinical trials have also demonstrated improved sleep quality and reduced sleep latency. In vitro studies suggest anti-inflammatory effects, with significant inhibition of COX-2 and TNF-α. Additionally, chamomile exhibits antioxidant activity, scavenging free radicals in a dose-dependent manner. Animal models indicate that it may enhance wound healing by promoting collagen deposition and exhibiting antibacterial effects. However, it's important to note that most research focuses on chamomile extracts in general, and direct evidence specific to glycerite preparations is limited.

How it works

Chamomile glycerite's mechanism of action involves several pathways. Apigenin, a key flavonoid, binds to benzodiazepine receptors, modulating GABA activity and promoting relaxation. The extract also inhibits NF-κB, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Flavonoids contribute to antioxidant effects by directly scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS). The glycerite form may enhance the solubility of polar compounds compared to tinctures, potentially improving bioavailability, although specific pharmacokinetic data for glycerites is lacking. These combined actions contribute to chamomile's anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

Side effects

Chamomile glycerite is generally considered safe, but some side effects are possible. Common side effects include mild gastrointestinal discomfort, reported in less than 5% of users. Rare but potential risks include allergic reactions, particularly in individuals sensitive to the Asteraceae plant family. Chamomile may interact with sedatives, potentially leading to additive effects with benzodiazepines. Due to its coumarin content, there is a theoretical risk of interaction with anticoagulants, although no clinical reports exist. It is contraindicated during pregnancy due to its potential uterine stimulant effects at high doses. Individuals with known allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family should exercise caution. As a precaution, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using chamomile glycerite, especially if taking other medications.

Dosage

The typical dosage range for chamomile glycerite is 30-60 drops (1-2 mL) taken 1-3 times daily, using a standardized 1:2 to 1:5 extract ratio. Optimal doses should target 1-4 mg of apigenin daily. For sleep benefits, evening administration is preferred. While there is no established upper limit, animal studies have shown safety at doses up to 500 mg/kg. It's important to consider the flavonoid content of the specific product when determining dosage. While glycerites are alcohol-free, they may not extract as many terpenes as alcohol-based tinctures. Always follow product-specific instructions and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.

FAQs

What is the advantage of alcohol-free chamomile glycerite?

Chamomile glycerite is preferred for children and alcohol-sensitive individuals. However, glycerites may extract fewer terpenes compared to alcohol-based tinctures, potentially affecting the overall therapeutic profile.

How long does it take for chamomile glycerite to take effect?

For acute anxiety relief, effects may be noticeable within 30-60 minutes. For chronic inflammation benefits, consistent use over 2-4 weeks may be required to observe noticeable improvements.

Can chamomile glycerite be combined with other supplements?

Chamomile glycerite may have synergistic effects with valerian for sleep, due to their complementary mechanisms of action. Consult with a healthcare professional before combining supplements to ensure safety.

Is chamomile glycerite safe for long-term use?

Chamomile glycerite is generally considered safe for long-term use within recommended dosages. However, it's important to monitor for any adverse effects and consult with a healthcare provider if concerns arise.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31006899/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the efficacy of chamomile for anxiety disorders. The review included several randomized controlled trials and found that chamomile significantly reduced anxiety symptoms compared to placebo. The study highlights chamomile as a potential complementary therapy for anxiety, but notes the need for further research with larger sample sizes and standardized chamomile preparations.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5074766/ – This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the pharmacological activities of chamomile. It discusses the anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties of chamomile, as well as its potential therapeutic applications for various conditions. The review emphasizes the importance of standardized chamomile extracts to ensure consistent efficacy and safety.
https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/valerian – This resource from Mount Sinai discusses the use of valerian for sleep disorders. It mentions that valerian is often combined with other herbs, such as chamomile, to enhance its sedative effects. The article provides information on dosage, potential side effects, and interactions with other medications.
https://www.lilacnaturalmedicine.com/blog.html – This blog post discusses the benefits of chamomile and other natural remedies. It provides general information about chamomile's uses for anxiety, sleep, and digestive issues. The post also emphasizes the importance of consulting with a healthcare professional before using herbal remedies.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36615326/ – This study investigates the effects of chamomile extract on sleep quality in older adults. The results showed that chamomile extract significantly improved sleep quality and reduced sleep latency in the participants. The study suggests that chamomile may be a safe and effective alternative to conventional sleep medications for older adults.