Chamomile (Matricaria Chamomilla L.) A Review of Ethnomedicinal use, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Activities.

This article provides a comprehensive review of Matricaria chamomilla L. (German chamomile), focusing on its ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemical composition, and pharmacological activities. Traditionally used worldwide for gastrointestinal, inflammatory, anxiety, sleep, wound healing, and gynecological disorders, chamomile contains key bioactive compounds such as flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin, quercetin), terpenoids (chamazulene, α-bisabolol), coumarins, and phenolic acids. Scientific studies have validated its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anxiolytic, antispasmodic, wound-healing, anticancer, hepatoprotective, antiulcer, antidiabetic, and immunomodulatory effects, with clinical trials supporting efficacy particularly in generalized anxiety disorder, dysmenorrhea, sleep disturbances, and gastrointestinal complaints. Chamomile is generally regarded as safe, though allergic reactions in Asteraceae-sensitive individuals and potential drug interactions warrant caution. The review highlights the need for standardized formulations, pharmacokinetic research, and large-scale clinical trials to fully realize chamomile's therapeutic potential.