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Roman Chamomile Glycerite Liquid Extract

Also known as: Roman chamomile, English chamomile, Chamaemelum nobile

Overview

Roman chamomile, scientifically known as *Chamaemelum nobile*, is a perennial herb historically valued for its calming, anti-inflammatory, and smooth muscle-relaxing properties. The glycerite liquid extract is an alcohol-free preparation, utilizing glycerin to extract and preserve the herb's active compounds, making it suitable for both oral and topical applications. Its primary uses include alleviating anxiety, improving sleep quality, soothing gastrointestinal discomfort, and calming irritated skin. While research on Roman chamomile specifically is less extensive than on German chamomile (*Matricaria chamomilla*), it shares many bioactive constituents, including flavonoids like apigenin, sesquiterpenes such as α-bisabolol, and essential oils like chamazulene and matricin. The evidence supporting its efficacy is considered moderate, with many studies focusing on chamomile broadly rather than distinguishing between species or specific extract forms like glycerites.

Benefits

Roman chamomile offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily extrapolated from broader chamomile research. For anxiety and sleep, a 2019 systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that chamomile extracts significantly improved symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and enhanced sleep quality, though specific effects on state anxiety or insomnia severity were not significant. The strength of this evidence is moderate, with a mean difference on the HAM-A scale of -1.4 to -1.8 for GAD and a standardized mean difference of -0.73 for sleep quality. Individuals with mild to moderate anxiety or sleep disturbances may benefit most. In vitro studies have demonstrated Roman chamomile's ability to relax smooth muscles, with crude extracts showing up to 58% relaxation of guinea pig urinary bladder smooth muscle at 200 μg/ml, suggesting potential antispasmodic effects for gastrointestinal or urinary tract discomfort. This evidence is strong for its in vitro effects but requires further human clinical trials. Traditionally, Roman chamomile glycerite is used topically for skin soothing due to its anti-inflammatory compounds like matricin and chamazulene, though high-quality clinical trials specifically on topical glycerite use are currently lacking.

How it works

Roman chamomile exerts its effects through several mechanisms. Its smooth muscle relaxant properties may involve modulating calcium channels and inhibiting excitatory neurotransmitters, as observed in studies on bladder tissue. This contributes to its antispasmodic effects, beneficial for gastrointestinal or urinary tract discomfort. The anxiolytic and sedative effects are largely attributed to flavonoids, particularly apigenin, which is believed to bind to GABA-A receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Anti-inflammatory actions are linked to sesquiterpenes like α-bisabolol and chamazulene, which inhibit pro-inflammatory mediators, although the exact molecular pathways are still being fully elucidated. Glycerite extracts are designed to preserve both water-soluble and certain lipophilic compounds, potentially enhancing the bioavailability of these active constituents compared to other extract forms.

Side effects

Roman chamomile glycerite is generally considered safe, with mild and transient side effects reported in less than 5% of users. These can include occasional gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea or stomach discomfort. Allergic reactions, though rare, can occur, particularly in individuals with known sensitivities to plants in the Asteraceae family (e.g., ragweed, marigolds, chrysanthemums). Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include skin rash, itching, or, in severe cases, anaphylaxis. While no significant drug interactions have been extensively documented for Roman chamomile glycerite specifically, caution is advised when co-administering with sedatives due to potential additive effects that could lead to excessive drowsiness. Similarly, due to its potential anti-inflammatory properties, there's a theoretical concern for interaction with anticoagulants, though this is not well-established. Contraindications include a known allergy to any plants in the Asteraceae family. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, should consult a healthcare provider before using Roman chamomile glycerite due to limited safety data in these specific populations.

Dosage

Dosage guidelines for Roman chamomile glycerite liquid extract are less standardized compared to other forms of chamomile, as clinical trials specifically on glycerite extracts are limited. However, general recommendations from herbal practice suggest a dosage of 1-4 ml, taken up to three times daily. For anxiety and sleep, clinical trials on standardized chamomile extracts (often in capsule form) have used doses ranging from 220 mg to 540 mg daily, standardized for compounds like apigenin and α-bisabolol. When using a glycerite, the concentration of active compounds can vary significantly between products, so it is crucial to follow the specific product's instructions. Optimal dosing may also depend on the individual's condition, body weight, and sensitivity. There is no established maximum safe dose for Roman chamomile glycerite, but adherence to recommended herbal dosing guidelines is advised to minimize potential side effects. Bioavailability may be influenced by whether the extract is taken with or without food, though specific research on this for glycerites is scarce.

FAQs

Is Roman chamomile glycerite effective for anxiety?

Evidence from broader chamomile research suggests it can improve generalized anxiety disorder symptoms, but specific data on Roman chamomile glycerite is limited. Effects typically appear after 2-4 weeks of consistent use.

Can it improve sleep?

Chamomile extracts show moderate efficacy in improving overall sleep quality, particularly reducing awakenings. However, their impact on severe insomnia or sleep duration is less clear.

Is it safe long-term?

Roman chamomile glycerite is generally considered safe with mild side effects. While long-term safety data specifically for the glycerite form is limited, no major concerns have been reported with extended use of chamomile extracts.

How fast do benefits appear?

Clinical improvements in anxiety and sleep quality are typically observed after 2 to 4 weeks of consistent daily use, as indicated by studies on chamomile extracts.

Are glycerite extracts better than alcohol tinctures?

Glycerites are alcohol-free, making them a preferred option for individuals who wish to avoid alcohol, such as children or those with alcohol sensitivities. However, comparative efficacy data between glycerite and alcohol tinctures is currently lacking.

Research Sources

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2018.00323/full – This in vitro pharmacology study investigated the effects of Roman chamomile crude extract on guinea pig urinary bladder smooth muscle. It found that the extract caused significant concentration-dependent relaxation, suggesting potential antispasmodic properties. The study provides strong evidence for the extract's direct smooth muscle relaxant effects in a laboratory setting, indicating a plausible mechanism for its traditional use in conditions involving muscle spasms.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31006899/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of chamomile for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and sleep quality. It concluded that chamomile significantly improved GAD symptoms and sleep quality, though it did not significantly affect state anxiety or insomnia severity. The review synthesizes findings from multiple randomized controlled trials, providing moderate to high-quality evidence for chamomile's anxiolytic and sleep-enhancing effects, despite heterogeneity in chamomile types and doses across studies.
https://meridianentp.com/wp-content/themes/mepl-child/images/kamarest/Chamomile_Reference.pdf – This systematic review focused on chamomile's effects on sleep. It found consistent evidence that chamomile improved sleep quality, particularly by reducing awakenings. While it did not show improvement in sleep duration or efficiency, the review supports chamomile's role in enhancing restorative sleep. The study highlights the need for more standardized research but provides a good overview of chamomile's sleep-related benefits.