Chamomile
Chamomile
Snapshot
Chamomile is a calming herb used traditionally to relieve anxiety, promote restful sleep, support digestion, and reduce inflammation.
What is Chamomile?
Chamomile is a daisy-like flowering herb known for its soothing properties and widespread use in herbal teas and natural remedies. The two most common species used medicinally are Matricaria chamomilla (German chamomile) and Chamaemelum nobile (Roman chamomile). It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its mild sedative, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic effects.
Where It Comes From
Chamomile is native to Europe and Western Asia but is now cultivated globally. The flower heads are harvested, dried, and used in teas, tinctures, extracts, and topical preparations.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Chamomile contains bioactive compounds such as apigenin, luteolin, bisabolol, chamazulene, and flavonoids. These phytochemicals contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, mild sedative, and antispasmodic actions.
Health Benefits
Chamomile may help reduce anxiety and stress by promoting relaxation and acting as a natural mild sedative. It’s commonly used to improve sleep quality and treat insomnia. Chamomile can also soothe digestive discomfort, including bloating, indigestion, and cramps. Topically, it may reduce skin irritation and support wound healing due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Recommended Dosage
Chamomile tea can be consumed 1–3 times daily, using 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried flowers per cup. For supplements, typical dosages range from 300 mg to 500 mg of standardized extract per day. Tinctures may be taken in 1–4 mL servings, depending on concentration.
How to Use It
Chamomile is most commonly enjoyed as a calming tea, but it is also available in capsules, tinctures, essential oils, and topical creams. To promote sleep, it’s best consumed about 30–60 minutes before bedtime.
Who Should Use It?
Chamomile is well suited for individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, mild sleep disturbances, or digestive discomfort. It’s also a gentle option for those looking to support skin health or reduce inflammation naturally.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
People with ragweed allergies should use chamomile cautiously, as cross-reactivity may occur. It may also interact with anticoagulant medications and sedatives. Pregnant individuals should consult a healthcare provider before using chamomile in therapeutic doses.
Final Thoughts
Chamomile is a gentle, time-tested herb that offers wide-ranging benefits for stress relief, sleep, digestion, and skin health. Its calming nature and versatility make it a staple in natural wellness routines.
Scientific Studies
Amsterdam, J. D., et al. (2009). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of oral Matricaria recutita (chamomile) extract therapy for generalized anxiety disorder. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 29(4), 378–382. https://doi.org/10.1097/JCP.0b013e3181ac935c
Srivastava, J. K., et al. (2010). Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with a bright future. Molecular Medicine Reports, 3(6), 895–901. https://doi.org/10.3892/mmr.2010.377
McKay, D. L., & Blumberg, J. B. (2006). A review of the bioactivity and potential health benefits of chamomile tea (Matricaria recutita L.). Phytotherapy Research, 20(7), 519–530. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.1900