Dry Extract From Chamomile Flower (4-6:1): Extraction Solvent: Ethanol 60% (M/M)

This article discusses clinical trials investigating the use of a drug containing dry extract from chamomile flower, along with myrrh and coffee charcoal, for treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The trials focus on patients with diarrhea-predominant IBS (IBS-D) and mixed-type IBS (IBS-M), evaluating the drug’s efficacy, safety, and tolerability compared to a placebo.

Table of Contents

What is Chamomile Extract?

Chamomile extract is a natural substance derived from chamomile flowers. In the context of this article, we’re focusing on a specific formulation called “DRY EXTRACT FROM CHAMOMILE FLOWER (4-6:1): EXTRACTION SOLVENT: ETHANOL 60% (M/M)”. This extract is one of the active ingredients in a medication called MYRRHINIL-INTEST®, which also contains myrrh and coffee charcoal[1].

Medical Uses

MYRRHINIL-INTEST®, which contains chamomile extract, is primarily used to treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), particularly the diarrhea-predominant (IBS-D) and mixed (IBS-M) subtypes[1]. IBS is a common digestive disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.

Specifically, this medication is being studied for its effectiveness in:

  • Reducing abdominal pain associated with IBS
  • Improving stool consistency in patients with diarrhea-predominant IBS
  • Enhancing overall bowel health in patients with mixed-type IBS

How It Works

While the exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, chamomile extract is believed to have several beneficial properties:

  • Anti-inflammatory effects: Chamomile may help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
  • Antispasmodic properties: It may help relax the smooth muscles of the intestines, potentially reducing cramping and pain.
  • Calming effects: Chamomile is known for its mild sedative properties, which might help reduce stress-related digestive symptoms.

The combination with myrrh and coffee charcoal in MYRRHINIL-INTEST® is thought to provide a synergistic effect in managing IBS symptoms[2].

Clinical Trials

Two clinical trials are currently investigating the efficacy and safety of MYRRHINIL-INTEST® for IBS:

  1. A study focusing on patients with diarrhea-predominant IBS (IBS-D)[1].
  2. A study including both diarrhea-predominant (IBS-D) and mixed-type IBS (IBS-M) patients[2].

These trials aim to assess:

  • The medication’s effectiveness in reducing abdominal pain
  • Improvements in stool consistency and frequency
  • Overall changes in IBS symptoms and quality of life
  • The safety and tolerability of the medication

Dosage and Administration

MYRRHINIL-INTEST® is typically administered as coated tablets. In the clinical trials, the maximum daily dose is 12 tablets, with a total treatment period of up to 8 weeks[2]. However, the exact dosage may vary depending on individual patient needs and should be determined by a healthcare professional.

Potential Side Effects

While the full safety profile is still being investigated in the clinical trials, potential side effects may include:

  • Allergic reactions, especially in people with known sensitivities to chamomile or related plants
  • Gastrointestinal discomfort
  • Interactions with other medications

It’s important to note that the clinical trials are designed to carefully monitor and assess any adverse events that may occur during treatment[1].

Precautions and Contraindications

Based on the clinical trial exclusion criteria, MYRRHINIL-INTEST® may not be suitable for:

  • Patients with inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
  • Individuals with known hypersensitivity to chamomile, myrrh, or coffee charcoal
  • Patients with certain liver or kidney dysfunctions
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women
  • Patients with certain other medical conditions or taking specific medications

Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication, including herbal supplements like chamomile extract[2].

Aspect Details
Drug Name MYRRHINIL-INTEST®
Active Ingredients Myrrh, Coffee Charcoal, Dry Extract from Chamomile Flower
Conditions Studied Diarrhea-predominant IBS (IBS-D), Mixed-type IBS (IBS-M)
Primary Endpoints Reduction in abdominal pain, improvement in stool consistency (IBS-D), overall bowel health improvement (IBS-M)
Key Inclusion Criteria Age 18-75, confirmed IBS-D or IBS-M diagnosis, specific symptom requirements
Key Exclusion Criteria Other gastrointestinal diseases, recent antibiotic use, pregnancy/breastfeeding
Assessment Tools NRS Pain, Bristol Stool Form Scale, IBS-SSS, IBS-QoL, PGI-I
Treatment Duration Up to 8 weeks

Ongoing Clinical Trials on Dry Extract From Chamomile Flower (4-6:1): Extraction Solvent: Ethanol 60% (M/M)

  • Study on the Effectiveness and Safety of Myrrh, Coffee Charcoal, and Chamomile Extract for Patients with Diarrhea-Dominant or Mixed-Type Irritable Bowel Syndrome

    Recruiting

    3 1 1
    Germany
  • Study on the Effectiveness and Safety of Myrrh, Coffee Charcoal, and Chamomile Extract for Patients with Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome

    Recruiting

    3 1 1
    Germany

Glossary

  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A common disorder affecting the large intestine, characterized by abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.
  • IBS-D: Diarrhea-predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome, where loose stools are more common than constipation.
  • IBS-M: Mixed-type Irritable Bowel Syndrome, where both diarrhea and constipation occur regularly.
  • Rome IV criteria: A set of diagnostic criteria used to identify and classify functional gastrointestinal disorders, including IBS.
  • Placebo: An inactive substance or treatment used in clinical trials to compare the effects of a drug.
  • Bristol Stool Form Scale: A medical aid used to classify the form of human feces into seven categories.
  • NRS Pain: Numerical Rating Scale for Pain, used to measure pain intensity on a scale from 0 to 10.
  • IBS-SSS: IBS Severity Scoring System, a tool used to assess the severity of IBS symptoms.
  • IBS-QoL: IBS Quality of Life questionnaire, used to measure the impact of IBS on a patient's quality of life.
  • PGI-I: Patient Global Impression of Improvement scale, used to assess overall changes in a patient's condition.

References

  1. http://clinicaltrials.eu/trial/study-on-the-effectiveness-and-safety-of-myrrh-coffee-charcoal-and-chamomile-extract-for-patients-with-diarrhea-predominant-irritable-bowel-syndrome/
  2. http://clinicaltrials.eu/trial/study-on-the-effectiveness-and-safety-of-myrrh-coffee-charcoal-and-chamomile-extract-for-patients-with-diarrhea-predominant-or-mixed-type-irritable-bowel-syndrome/