Classification, Distribution, Biosynthesis, and Regulation of Secondary Metabolites in Matricaria chamomilla

Matricaria chamomilla is a multi-use aromatic medicinal plant, and is known to be one of the oldest medicinal plants in the world. M. chamomilla contains abundant volatile oils, of which terpenes and flavonoids are the main medicinal active ingredients, including chamazulene and α-bisabolol. M. chamomilla is often used to treat flatulence, inflammation, and other disorders. It is also used for pain relief and sedation. In recent years, many studies have examined the medicinally active ingredients, pharmacological efficacy, plant physiology, and other aspects of M. chamomilla. Here, we summarize studies on the secondary metabolites of medicinally active components in M. chamomilla, with respect to their biosynthesis pathways and regulation.