MATRICARIA CHAMOMILLA L. (CHAMOMILE) AND ITS ROLE IN BIOTECHNOLOGICAL RESEARCH

Abstract

Matricaria chamomilla L., commonly known as chamomile, is a plant belonging to the Asteraceae
family and is one of the most famous species with medicinal properties. It contains flavonoids,
terpenoids, coumarins, polyphenols and other bioactive secondary metabolites, which are
characterized by anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticarcinogenic and sedative
effects. Scientists have found that chamomile contains more than 120 secondary metabolites. This
plant, which is widely used in traditional medicine, has also received special attention in
biotechnological research in recent years. In the field of biotechnology, chamomile is valued as a
source of natural bioactive compounds. In particular, scientific research is being conducted to
stimulate the synthesis of highly effective secondary metabolites through the use of cell cultures,
callus formation, in vitro propagation, elicitation, genetic modification and bioreactor
technologies. These methods make it possible to grow the plant in a state rich in compounds
necessary for its use in medicines, maintain their quality and create sustainable production
systems. Chamomile biomass is also being used in innovative projects to produce environmentally
friendly (eco friendly) products - bioplastics, natural cosmetics and phytopreparations. Their
efficient biotechnological processing, environmentally friendly use and richness in biologically
active substances further increase the importance of this plant. We should not be indifferent to this
plant, which has so many beneficial properties.