Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita or Chamaemelum nobile) has a long history of use in traditional medicine for gastrointestinal complaints, including inflammatory bowel disorders (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Traditionally, chamomile has been valued for its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and calming properties. In recent years, scientific studies have begun to investigate its potential benefits for IBD, though the evidence remains limited and largely preclinical.

Chamomile contains several bioactive compounds, notably apigenin, chamazulene, and bisabolol, which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in laboratory and animal studies. These compounds may inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative stress, both of which are implicated in the pathogenesis of IBD. For example, some animal studies have shown that chamomile extracts can reduce colonic inflammation and tissue damage in chemically induced models of colitis.

However, clinical evidence in humans is sparse. Few small pilot studies and case reports suggest potential benefit in symptom management, but robust randomized controlled trials are lacking. Therefore, while there is a scientific rationale and some preliminary supporting data, chamomile cannot be considered an evidence-based treatment for IBD at this time. It is most appropriately used as a complementary approach to conventional therapy, with caution for possible allergic reactions and drug interactions.

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