Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract
Also known as: Chamomilla recutita, Matricaria chamomilla L., German chamomile, Wild chamomile, Camomile
Overview
Chamomilla recutita, commonly known as German chamomile, is a flowering plant native to Europe and Western Asia, widely cultivated for its medicinal flowers. It is used traditionally for sleep support, anxiety reduction, and as an anti-inflammatory agent. The plant contains bioactive compounds such as apigenin and bisabolol, which contribute to its pharmacological effects. Research maturity is moderate, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews available, although larger, high-quality trials are still needed. Evidence is strongest for improvements in sleep quality and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), with some support for anti-inflammatory and antiemetic effects. Chamomile is available in various forms, including teas, capsules, and tinctures, with standardized extracts preferred for consistency.
Benefits
Chamomilla recutita offers several evidence-based benefits. Meta-analyses of RCTs demonstrate significant improvements in sleep quality. Studies also show significant improvements in generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) after 2 and 4 weeks of use. Secondary benefits include anti-inflammatory effects, supported by in vitro and limited human data suggesting modulation of T cell activity and reduction in inflammatory markers. It also exhibits antiemetic properties, reducing the frequency of vomiting in chemotherapy patients, and can alleviate the severity and pain of oral mucositis in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Elderly individuals, cancer patients, and those with mild anxiety or sleep disturbances may benefit most from its use. The effects are generally mild to moderate.
How it works
Chamomilla recutita exerts its effects through several biological pathways. For sleep and anxiety, it modulates GABA receptors (primarily via apigenin), influences serotoninergic pathways, and produces mild sedative effects. Its anti-inflammatory action involves the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the modulation of T cell activity. Chamomile interacts with the central nervous system to induce sedation and anxiolysis, the immune system to reduce inflammation, and the gastrointestinal system to provide antiemetic effects. Key molecular targets include GABA-A receptors and inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6. Apigenin and other flavonoids are absorbed orally, but their bioavailability can vary.
Side effects
Chamomilla recutita is generally well-tolerated, with mild adverse events reported in a minority of users. Common side effects are rare, but mild gastrointestinal upset is possible. Uncommon side effects include allergic reactions, especially in individuals sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family. Rare side effects include severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis. Chamomile may interact with sedatives, anticoagulants, and drugs metabolized by CYP enzymes, although evidence is limited. It is contraindicated in individuals with known allergies to chamomile or related plants. Special populations, such as the elderly and cancer patients, can generally use it safely at typical doses, but caution is advised during pregnancy due to limited safety data.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Chamomilla recutita is not well established, but typical doses range from 200–500 mg of extract or 1–3 cups of tea daily. Optimal dosage ranges are within this range, with standardized extracts preferred for consistency. There is no established upper limit, but doses up to 1,000 mg/day have been used in studies without significant adverse effects. For sleep benefits, evening administration is recommended; for anxiety or nausea, it can be taken as needed. Chamomile is available in tea, capsules, and tinctures. Absorption may be improved when taken with food, but bioavailability can vary depending on the formulation. No specific cofactors are required for its activity.
FAQs
Is Chamomilla recutita safe?
Chamomilla recutita is generally safe for most people. However, monitor for allergic reactions, especially if you are sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family. Consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns.
When should I take Chamomilla recutita?
For sleep benefits, take it in the evening. For anxiety or nausea, take it as needed. Consistent timing can help optimize its effects.
What results can I expect from Chamomilla recutita?
Expect moderate improvement in sleep quality and mild anxiety relief. It may also provide modest antiemetic and anti-inflammatory effects. It is not a cure for severe conditions, and effects are generally mild to moderate.
Are there any misconceptions about Chamomilla recutita?
It's important to know that Chamomilla recutita is not a cure for insomnia or severe anxiety. Its effects are mild to moderate, and it should be used as part of a comprehensive approach to health.
Can Chamomilla recutita interact with other medications?
Yes, there is a potential interaction with sedatives, anticoagulants, and drugs metabolized by CYP enzymes. Consult with your doctor or pharmacist before use.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39106912/ – This study investigated the effects of chamomile extract on sleep quality and anxiety levels. The results indicated a significant improvement in sleep quality and a reduction in anxiety symptoms among participants who consumed chamomile extract compared to the control group. The study suggests that chamomile extract may be a beneficial natural remedy for individuals experiencing sleep disturbances and anxiety.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.6349 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs examined the efficacy of Chamomilla recutita for sleep quality and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The analysis included 12 RCTs and found significant improvements in both sleep quality and GAD. The review highlights the potential of chamomile as a therapeutic option for these conditions, while also noting limitations such as heterogeneity in study designs.
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/15347354231164600 – This systematic review of RCTs focused on the effects of Chamomilla recutita on reducing vomiting and oral mucositis severity in cancer patients. The review included multiple RCTs and found that chamomile significantly reduced these symptoms. The study suggests that chamomile can be a valuable adjunct therapy for managing chemotherapy-induced side effects in cancer patients.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35454969/ – This review article summarizes the ethnomedicinal uses and pharmacological mechanisms of Chamomilla recutita. It provides an overview of the traditional uses of chamomile and its various pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and sleep-promoting properties. The review highlights the importance of chamomile as a medicinal plant with diverse therapeutic applications.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38720895/ – This study investigates the potential benefits of chamomile in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. The research indicates that chamomile possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to its therapeutic effects. The findings suggest that chamomile could be a valuable natural remedy for managing conditions associated with inflammation and oxidative stress.
