Chamomile
Chamaemelum nobile
Chamaemelum nobile, commonly known as Roman chamomile, is a traditional plant with roots in European and Mediterranean herbal medicine. Traditionally, it has been used for its purported calming effects and to soothe minor skin irritations, though specific recorded uses are limited. Scientific evidence suggests that Chamaemelum nobile contains high levels of polyphenols and flavonoids, which contribute to strong antioxidant activity. Additionally, studies using Raman spectroscopy and GC-MS have identified 224 compounds, predominantly terpenoids, in the essential oil composition, further supporting its traditional use. Clinical trials indicate that chamomile is generally well-tolerated, with mostly self-limiting minor adverse events reported; however, allergic reactions have been documented in case studies. There are no major safety concerns or recorded drug interactions associated with Chamaemelum nobile.
- Best evidence
- A
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study found that apple extract showed strong antioxidant and protease inhibitory activities, while chamomile hydrolate had low antioxidant activity.
- Chamaemelum nobile showed high polyphenol and flavonoid levels with strong antioxidant activity.
- The study identified 224 compounds, predominantly terpenoids, using Raman spectroscopy and GC-MS in Chamaemelum nobile, confirming its essential oil composition.
- Chamomile was associated with mostly self-limiting minor adverse events in clinical trials, though allergic reactions were reported in case studies.
Frequently asked questions
What is Chamomile?
Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Chamomile?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Chamomile; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: The study found that apple extract showed strong antioxidant and protease inhibitory activities, while chamomile hydrolate had low antioxidant activity.
How strong is the evidence for Chamomile?
The strongest finding for Chamomile carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Chamomile safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Chamomile in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Chamomile interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Chamomile in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Chamomile?
Chamomile is also known as: Ромашка римская, Camomille romaine.
Is Chamomile a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Chamomile: A systematic review of adverse events. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Biochemical Properties, Antioxidant Activity, and In Vitro Ruminal Fermentation of Four Medicinal Plant Species Grown in Northwestern Tunisia. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Characterization of Terpenoids in Aromatic Plants Using Raman Spectroscopy and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). literature abstract metadata
- T2 Upcycling Roman Chamomile Hydrolate and Apple Pomace Agri-Wastes into Sustainable Cosmetic Ingredients. literature abstract metadata