Assay of apigenin-7-O-glucoside (flavone) and alpha-bisabolol (terpene)

The measurement of apigenin-7-O-glucoside and alpha-bisabolol is a crucial dual analysis for characterizing natural extracts from chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla, Chamaemelum nobile) and other calming medicinal plants. These two compounds, belonging respectively to the flavone and terpene families, are known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and calming properties.

Apigenin-7-O-glucoside is the main glycosylated flavone in chamomile, while alpha-bisabolol is a sesquiterpene alcohol found in the essential oil. Together, they serve as chemical quality markers for plant extracts used in cosmetics, nutraceuticals, and herbal medicine.

Their dosage allows us to assess the purity, concentration and conformity of natural products, whether they are active ingredients, standardized extracts or ready-to-use formulations.

Advantages of combined dosing

The simultaneous analysis of these two compounds is of particular interest for:

• Ensure the standardization of chamomile extracts according to their bioactive profiles.
• Control the stability and content of active ingredients in soothing cosmetic formulations.
• Evaluate the quality of essential oils and plant extracts intended for nutraceutical use.
• Verify that the products conform to supplier specifications.
• Compare phytochemical profiles between different species or extraction processes.

This dosage is particularly suitable for products claiming a calming, restorative or anti-inflammatory action, such as creams, lotions, syrups, infusions or food supplements based on chamomile.

Analytical methods

The analysis is based on a complementary approach combining high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS).

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-DAD)
with diode array detection is used to quantify apigenin-7-O-glucoside. This method allows for fine separation of glycosylated flavones and provides accurate measurement in complex matrices such as hydroalcoholic extracts, powders, or liquid formulations.

Gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS)
GC-MS is the reference technique for the analysis of alpha-bisabolol and other volatile terpenes. It allows for specific identification through the comparison of mass spectra and offers highly sensitive quantification, even at low concentrations in essential oils.

Both methods can be performed on the same sample, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of the phytochemical profile. Analyses are conducted in accordance with ISO 17025 standards, guaranteeing traceability, reliability, and reproducibility.

Industrial applications

Natural cosmetics:
The dosage of apigenin-7-O-glucoside and alpha-bisabolol is essential for laboratories formulating soothing, moisturizing, or repairing products (creams, balms, after-sun care). It allows for the standardization of plant extracts and the validation of claims regarding gentleness and skin tolerance.

Nutraceuticals:
These two compounds are also used in dietary supplements designed to promote relaxation and digestive well-being. Their dosage ensures a consistent formulation and an effective concentration of natural active ingredients.

Phytotherapy:
Chamomile infusions, tinctures or powders are controlled via this analysis to ensure the presence of characteristic bioactive markers, indicators of quality and efficacy.

Research and development:
Dosage is also used in R&D work to study the synergy between flavonoids and terpenes, or to compare the quality of different botanical origins.

Affected matrices

• Essential oils and natural extracts
• Creams, lotions and cosmetic treatments
• Chamomile-based food supplements
• Standardized hydroalcoholic or dry extracts
• Plant powders or infusions

Recommended Related Analyses

To complete the characterization of chamomile extracts, YesWeLab recommends:
Free apigenin assay – for a comprehensive evaluation of the flavonoid profile.
Chamazulene assay – an aromatic marker derived from chamomile distillation.
Bisabolol oxide A and B assay – for complete standardization of active terpenes.

Why choose YesWeLab?

YesWeLab relies on a network of laboratories specializing in phytochemical analysis, equipped with the latest chromatographic technologies (HPLC, GC-MS, LC-MS).
Our experts support nutraceutical, natural cosmetics, and botanical research companies in the characterization and standardization of their extracts.
Our digital platform allows you to centralize your analytical needs, track your samples, and easily obtain your results.