Matricaria recutita functions as an anti-allergic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant analgesic approved by Commission E for inflammatory mucocutaneous diseases, wound, and burn therapy. The major components of German chamomile include the primary anti-inflammatory agents: alpha-bisabolol, chamazulene, levomenol, and matricine. Other active compounds include bisaboloxides, farnesenes, choline, glycosides, flavonoids such as apigenin, rutin, tannins, hydroxycoumarins such umbelliferone, mucilages, saccharides, fatty acids, and salicylates (3,35).
Chamazulene inhibits leukotriene B4 synthesis via inhibition of lipoxygenase and cyclo-oxygenase, lipid peroxidation, leukocyte infiltration, and histamine release. Levomenol is an anti-inflammatory hydrating agent that diminishes the signs of photodamage and reduces pruritis. Apigenin inhibits adhesion molecules. Bisabolol promotes granulation tissue (35).
Clinical studies showed topical chamomile cream was superior to 0.5% hydrocortisone in treating dermatitis and sunburn and statistically significantly decreased wound area and healing time (29). In another trial, it was not as effective as 0.25% hydrocortisone in treating dermatitis. This herb is administered as oil for infusion, tea, ointment, gel, wash, gargle, or capsule.
Chamomile is a compositae that has a significant risk of contact sensitization, conjunctivitis, angioedema, and anaphylaxis. It also has an additive anticoagulant effect to warfarin (3).