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Camomile (Chamomilla recutita)

Chamomilla recutita and Matricaria recutita are the same plant, commonly known as German chamomile. The names are used interchangeably in botanical and herbal contexts to refer to this widely used medicinal plant known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

Chamomilla recutita, commonly known as chamomile, has a long history of use in traditional medicine dating back to ancient civilizations. The Egyptians revered chamomile for its healing properties and used it to treat fever and as an offering to their gods. In ancient Greece and Rome, chamomile was used to ease digestive problems, calm the nerves, and promote sleep. Throughout Europe, chamomile became a staple of folk medicine, often used to treat colds, inflammation, and skin conditions. Its widespread use in herbal teas and topical treatments is still rooted in centuries of medicinal tradition.

Chamomile and Apigenin

Chamomilla recutita, commonly known as chamomile, is a flowering plant in the Asteraceae family and is widely known for its calming properties. Apigenin, a bioflavonoid found in high concentrations in chamomile, is an important active ingredient that contributes to many of the plant's potential health benefits. In addition to chamomile, apigenin is found in a number of other plants and vegetables, including parsley, artichokes, and kumquats. Chamomile contains approximately 840 mg of apigenin per 100 grams, making it by far one of the richest sources of this flavonoid. Apigenin is known for its potential role in modulating various physiological processes, although it is less stable in isolated form, making it difficult to study its effects in isolation.

Potential health benefits

Apigenin is being investigated for its potential benefits in a number of health areas, particularly in relation to aging and longevity. Preclinical studies suggest that apigenin may play a role in reducing anxiety, improving brain function, and reducing oxidative stress.

It also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which could contribute to its potential benefits for mental health and immune function. In addition, apigenin is thought to influence hormone regulation, including the modulation of testosterone, estrogen and cortisol levels. These effects suggest that apigenin may support the maintenance of hormonal balance, which is crucial as the body ages. 

Apigenin and longevity

Apigenin's potential role in healthy ageing and longevity is linked to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and hormone-regulating properties. Apigenin can help protect cells from oxidative damage by scavenging free radicals and inducing detoxification enzymes such as glutathione. These effects are crucial for reducing cell stress and supporting overall cell health, which may be important factors in the aging process. In addition, apigenin's anti-inflammatory properties could help maintain brain function and mental health as we age, potentially mitigating the cognitive decline associated with aging. Current research is predominantly preclinical, and although the results are promising, more robust human studies are needed to substantiate these findings and determine safe and effective use to promote longevity.

About the chamomile flower extract

The high-quality chamomile flower extract is obtained from the flowers of true chamomile (Matricaria recutita). The extract is vegan and undergoes strict quality controls to ensure that it meets European food safety standards, including the fact that it has not been modified by irradiation or genetic engineering and is free from contaminants. 

Kamille (Chamomilla recutita) by ASPRIVA®