Chamaemelum nobile (L.) All.,Roman chamomile

Abstract: Roman Chamomile flowers consist of the dried blossoms of the cultivated double variety of Chamaemelum nobile (L.) ALL. In Western Europe to Roman Chamomile receives similar attention as Matricaria recutita L. (= Cbamomilla recutita [L.] RAUSCHERT; German Chamomile) in Central Europe. Indications for both plants are equal in many respects, especially concerning disturbances of the gastrointestinal tract, though they contain different constituents. The therapeutic efficacy of the Roman Chamomilee seems to depend on the ester constituents of the essential oil, which is characterised by the presence of esters of the angelic acid. Furthermore Roman Chamomile also contains hydroperoxides which besides the antibacterial effects possibly are also responsible for the shine of blond hair. In folk medicine Roman Chamomile is mainly recommended for gastrointestinal disorders, nervous diseases and infections. Based on recent investigations, Roman Chamomile is supposed to contain an »antiaggressive« substance which could explain the effect of the drug on nervous disturbances. The germacranolides, i. e. sesquiterpene lactones with an exocyclic methylene group, are considered as potential allergenes.

Keyword(s): Chamaemelum nobile (L.) ALL.

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