Medicinal Plant Research 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 107-116 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/mpr 108 2 Bioactive Compounds in Chamomile Tea 2.1 Identification of key bioactive compounds Chamomile tea is rich in flavonoids, which are a group of polyphenolic compounds known for their health benefits. The primary flavonoids identified in chamomile include apigenin, quercetin, patuletin, and luteolin, along with their glucosides. These compounds exhibit a range of biological activities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic effects. Apigenin, in particular, has been noted for its potential to induce apoptosis in cancer cells and its anxiolytic properties. Quercetin and luteolin also contribute to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of chamomile tea, which can help in managing oxidative stress and inflammation-related conditions (McKay and Blumberg, 2006). The essential oils extracted from chamomile flowers are another significant group of bioactive compounds. The main components of these oils include terpenoids such as α-bisabolol, its oxides, and azulenes like chamazulene. These essential oils are known for their therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antispasmodic effects. α-Bisabolol, for instance, has been shown to possess anti-irritant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful in treating skin conditions and gastrointestinal disturbances. Chamazulene, on the other hand, is recognized for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. 2.2 Quantification methods for bioactive compounds Chromatographic techniques, particularly Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and Liquid Chromatography coupled with Diode-Array Detection and Mass Spectrometry (LC-DAD-MS/MS), are commonly used to quantify the bioactive compounds in chamomile tea. GC-MS is effective in analyzing the essential oil components, providing detailed profiles of terpenoids and other volatile compounds. LC-DAD-MS/MS, on the other hand, is utilized for the quantification of polyphenols, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, offering high sensitivity and specificity (Viapiana et al., 2016). Spectroscopic methods, such as UV-Vis spectrophotometry, are also employed to quantify the total polyphenol content in chamomile tea. The Folin-Ciocalteu method is a classical approach used to estimate the total phenolic content by measuring the absorbance of the sample at specific wavelengths. This method provides a general indication of the antioxidant capacity of the tea, which is largely attributed to its polyphenolic compounds. 2.3 Synergistic effects of bioactive compounds The bioactive compounds in chamomile tea, particularly flavonoids and essential oils, can interact synergistically to enhance their therapeutic effects. For instance, the combination of apigenin (a flavonoid) and α-bisabolol (an essential oil component) can potentiate anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic activities, providing more effective relief from gastrointestinal and inflammatory conditions. Such interactions can also enhance the overall antioxidant capacity of chamomile tea, contributing to its health benefits (Ganzera et al., 2006). The combined effects of flavonoids and essential oils in chamomile tea can lead to significant health benefits. These compounds work together to provide a broad spectrum of therapeutic effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anxiolytic properties. The antioxidant activity helps in reducing oxidative stress, which is linked to various chronic diseases, while the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties can aid in managing infections and inflammatory conditions. Additionally, the anxiolytic effects of compounds like apigenin contribute to the calming and sedative properties of chamomile tea, making it a popular remedy for stress and anxiety (El Mihyaoui et al., 2022). 3 Therapeutic Applications of Chamomile Tea 3.1 Use in digestive health Chamomile tea has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of indigestion and bloating. The bioactive compounds in chamomile, such as flavonoids and terpenoids, contribute to its antispasmodic and carminative properties, which help in relaxing the digestive tract muscles and expelling gas. This makes chamomile tea a popular remedy for mild digestive disturbances. Chamomile tea is also effective in managing various gastrointestinal disorders. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help in reducing inflammation and
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