Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

Matricaria chamomilla, commonly called German or “true” chamomile, is a short‑lived annual herb belonging to the Asteraceae family. Its dried flower heads are used to make teas, extracts, and dietary‑supplement products that are primarily valued for their mild sedative, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

• Apigenin: The principal flavonoid apigenin (C₁₅H₁₀O₅; IUPAC: 4′,5,7‑trihydroxy‑2‑(4‑hydroxyphenyl)‑4‑H‑chromen‑4‑one) has a planar flavone core with hydroxyl groups at positions 4′, 5, and 7.
• Luteolin: Luteolin (C₁₅H₁₀O₆) adds an extra 3′‑hydroxyl, enhancing antioxidant activity.
• Terpenoids: The sesquiterpene α‑bisabolol (C₁₅H₂₆O) and its oxidized derivative, chamazulene (C₁₄H₁₈) are responsible for the characteristic blue‑green color of essential oil and contribute to anti-inflammatory activity.
• Extract composition: The extracts typically contain 0.5–2 % total flavonoids (by weight) and 0.1–0.5 % essential oil (α‑bisabolol/ chamazulene).

• Cultivation: Chamomile is cultivated worldwide, with major commercial production in Egypt, Germany, Egypt, and China.
• Harvesting: The dried flower heads are harvested at full bloom, then air‑dried at < 40 °C to preserve flavonoids.
• Extraction methods: Extraction methods include ethanol or water‑ethanol (70 % ethanol) maceration for flavonoids and steam‑distillation for essential oil.
• Standardization: Standardization of extracts is performed by HPLC quantification of apigenin (≥ 0.5 % w/w).
• Quality control: High‑quality supplements are verified by USP or EFSA‑approved Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and include third‑party testing for pesticide residues, heavy metals, and microbial load.
• Preferred material: Organic, non‑irradiated raw material is preferred for preserving volatile terpenes and reducing contaminant risk.