Matricaria chamomilla, commonly known as German chamomile or Water of Youth, is a daisy looking flower and member of the Asteraceae family. The key active constituent present in the herb is apigenin, a flavonoid that is believed to contribute to chamomile’s antioxidant effects.
Apigenin Extract (Matricaria chamomilla) Benefits and Uses
Matricaria chamomilla is an annual flower and ancient medicinal plant. The dried flowers of chamomile are commonly used in medicinal teas and tinctures for thousands of years.
Today, Matricaria chamomilla is an extensively utilized medicinal plant with numerous pharmacological properties. Chemically, Matricaria chamomilla possesses phytochemical compounds with potent bioactive effects, which include terpenoids and flavonoids. The key active component is Apigenin, a flavone that is present in a number of vegetables such as parsley, and celery is shown to have important health-promoting effects. These included supporting the immune system and to support gastrointestinal health.
Anecdotally, Matricaria chamomilla has perceived antioxidant effects. One study tested its antioxidant status by analyzing the phytochemical composition and free radical savaging power of the methanol extract of the plant. The samples in the study showed Matricaria chamomilla exhibited significant antioxidant activities due to the presence of phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Furthermore, the study found that herb had no adverse effects on the liver (i.e. no hepatotoxicity). Moreover, Matricaria chamomilla may have skin health-promoting properties.
Scientific Consensus
Apigenin supplements are generally considered safe and non-toxic as per the reported cytotoxicity assessments.
However, Apigenin is likely unsafe for individuals with ragweed allergies. *Matricaria chamomilla * belongs to the same family as ragweed and individuals with ragweed allergies can have allergic reactions such as rashes and in high doses can cause nausea. Avoid use if you have any ragweed or chamomile allergies.
There is not enough data to say whether Apigenin is safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or if it can be used by children.
