Unlocking Matricaria chamomilla bioactives: Process optimization via betaine-NADES extraction, metabolic profiling, and antityrosinase activity

What if the key to brighter skin was hidden in a humble chamomile flower? Scientists have found a green, sweet-smelling way to unlock its power.

Chamomile has long been a soothing herbal remedy, but its true potential may lie in the tiny molecules it hides. Researchers have now turned to a new class of solvents called NADES—natural deep eutectic solvents—made from betaine, a compound found in beets. These solvents are not only greener than traditional ones but also surprisingly effective at pulling out chamomile's bioactive treasures.

In this study, nine betaine-based NADES were tested, and one stood out: a mix of betaine and 1,3-propanediol (N5). It extracted the highest levels of phenolic and flavonoid compounds, beating even ethanol-based methods. Using a statistical design, the team optimized the extraction conditions, boosting phenolic yield by 42% and flavonoid yield by 17% compared to the unoptimized N5.

The extracts were then tested for their ability to inhibit tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in skin pigmentation. The optimized N5 extract performed just as well as ethanol-based ultrasound extraction, and far better than simple ethanol maceration. Chemical analysis revealed a rich profile of phenolic and flavonoid compounds, suggesting chamomile NADES extracts could become a natural depigmenting agent for skin disorders.

Key Points

• Betaine-NADES outperformed ethanol in extracting chamomile phenolics and flavonoids.
• Optimized N5 boosted phenolic yield by 42% and flavonoid yield by 17%.
• Chamomile NADES extract shows promise as a natural tyrosinase inhibitor for skin lightening.