Chamomile

The name chamomile comes from the Greek words khamai, meaning "on the ground," and melon, meaning "apple," a reference to the apple-like scent of its crushed flowers.

Chamomile flowers are sourced mainly from Germany, Hungary and Egypt, and grow best in temperate climates with well-drained, sandy soil. Two species are used medicinally: German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla, also called Matricaria recutita) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), both members of the Asteraceae, or daisy, family. German chamomile is the more widely used of the two in modern herbal and wellness products.

Chamomile is native to Europe and West Asia rather than India, so it is not part of India's classical Ayurvedic tradition and does not have an established rasa, virya, vipaka or dosha classification in the principal Ayurvedic Nighantus. It has been adopted more recently into contemporary Indian herbal and wellness practice, where it is generally described in terms similar to Western herbal medicine, for its traditionally recognised calming and digestive-soothing properties.

Chamomile is known by several names across languages and traditions:

• Botanical name: Matricaria chamomilla (German chamomile), Chamaemelum nobile (Roman chamomile)
• English name: Chamomile, also spelled Camomile
• Hindi name: Babune ka Phool
• Spanish name: Manzanilla
• Traditional folk names: Ground Apple and Earth Apple, both referring to its apple-like scent

• Chamomile flowers contain several bioactive compounds that may contribute to its traditional and studied uses:
• Apigenin, a flavonoid studied for binding to GABA receptors in the brain, which may contribute to chamomile's calming effects (Avallone et al., 2000).
• Chamazulene, a terpenoid formed during the preparation of chamomile essential oil, which may contribute to its anti-inflammatory activity.
• Alpha-bisabolol, a terpenoid studied for its potential anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties.
• Coumarins, such as herniarin, which are present in small amounts. These are not the same compound as the anticoagulant drug warfarin, though their presence has prompted caution around use alongside blood-thinning medicines.
• Phenolic acids and other flavonoids, which contribute to chamomile's antioxidant activity in laboratory studies.

Laboratory and clinical studies have looked at the following actions of chamomile and its constituents on the body:

• Mild sedative and anxiolytic, associated with potential calming and sleep-supporting effects
• Antispasmodic, traditionally used to relax digestive muscle spasms
• Anti-inflammatory, studied both when taken by mouth and applied to the skin
• Antioxidant, with antioxidant activity demonstrated in laboratory studies
• Carminative, traditionally used to ease mild bloating and wind
• Antimicrobial, studied for activity against some bacteria and fungi
• Mild antihistamine-like action, studied for its potential role in soothing minor skin irritation

These properties are supported by a mix of laboratory research, small clinical trials and long traditional use (McKay & Blumberg, 2006). Evidence quality varies between properties, and this list describes studied actions, not guaranteed outcomes for every user.

Chamomile contains naturally occurring compounds that have been studied for their potential calming, digestive and skin-supporting effects, alongside its long history of traditional use.

Supports Sleep Quality

Chamomile contains apigenin, a flavonoid that has been studied for its interaction with GABA receptors in the brain, a pathway linked to relaxation and sleep. A small placebo-controlled trial found standardised chamomile extract was associated with modest sleep improvements in adults with chronic insomnia (Zick et al., 2011), though it is not a substitute for medical treatment of ongoing sleep disorders.

May Help Ease Mild Anxiety

Chamomile has been studied for its calming effect on mild, everyday anxiety and stress, with apigenin and other compounds being investigated for potential mechanisms related to these effects. It is not a treatment for diagnosed anxiety disorders, which need assessment and care from a qualified healthcare professional.

Supports Digestive Comfort

Chamomile's antispasmodic action is traditionally used to relax digestive muscles and ease mild indigestion, bloating and wind. It is commonly taken as a tea after meals for this purpose, but persistent digestive symptoms need medical assessment rather than self-treatment.

Supports Immune Function

Chamomile's antioxidant and antimicrobial properties have been studied in laboratory settings. However, there is limited evidence in humans that chamomile supports immune function or prevents minor illnesses, such as the common cold.

Supports Skin Healing

Applied topically, chamomile's anti-inflammatory compounds are traditionally used to calm minor skin irritation, redness and support the healing of minor wounds. It may be used as part of a wider skincare routine, but people with ongoing skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis should consult a dermatologist before use.

Chamomile is available in several forms and is commonly incorporated into everyday wellness, relaxation and personal care routines.

As a Bedtime Herbal Tea

Chamomile is most commonly taken as a warm tea in the evening, either on its own or blended with other calming herbs, as part of a wind-down routine before sleep.

In Aromatherapy and Massage Oils

Chamomile essential oil is used in aromatherapy diffusers or diluted in a carrier oil for massage, valued for its traditionally recognised calming scent.

In Topical Skin Preparations

Chamomile extract is included in creams, ointments and compresses applied directly to areas of minor skin irritation, as directed on the product label.

As a Mouth Rinse

A cooled chamomile tea infusion is sometimes used as a mouth rinse to help soothe minor mouth sores or gum irritation, although evidence for this use is limited. Consult a dentist or pharmacist if symptoms persist.

In Combination Herbal Tea Blends

Chamomile is frequently blended with other calming herbs, such as lavender or lemon balm, in commercial bedtime and relaxation tea blends.

Chamomile is generally well tolerated, but the following precautions should be understood before use:

• Allergy risk: Do not take chamomile if you are allergic to plants in the Asteraceae (daisy) family, such as ragweed, daisies or marigolds. Reactions can range from mild skin irritation to, rarely, a serious allergic reaction, so seek urgent medical help if you develop swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Consult a healthcare provider before using chamomile if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been well established.
• Sedative effects and alcohol: Chamomile may increase drowsiness when used with alcohol, sedatives and similar medicines. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Blood-thinning medicines: Use caution if you take warfarin or other blood-thinning medicines.
• Serious or persistent digestive symptoms: Chamomile may provide mild, symptomatic digestive comfort only. Conditions such as diverticulitis, or any severe or persistent abdominal pain, need prompt medical assessment rather than self-treatment with chamomile.

Note: This information does not replace personalised medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using chamomile regularly, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, older, or taking other medicines.

Chamomile is available in several forms, and how it is used depends on the form chosen:

Preparing Chamomile Tea

Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of hot, not boiling, water for 5 to 10 minutes. Strain and drink, adding honey or lemon if desired.

Applying Chamomile Oil

Chamomile essential oil should be diluted in a carrier oil before use on the skin or in a diffuser for aromatherapy. It is not intended for internal use.

Taking Chamomile Tablets or Capsules

Standardised tablets or capsules should be taken exactly as directed on the product label or by a practitioner, since extract strength varies between products.

Using Chamomile Topically or as a Mouth Rinse

Creams and ointments are applied to the affected skin area as directed. A cooled chamomile tea infusion may be used as a mouth rinse to help soothe minor mouth or gum irritation.

Herbs Commonly Used With Chamomile

Chamomile is frequently combined with the following herbs in teas and wellness blends:

Chamomile dosage depends on the form used and the person taking it. The following is general guidance only and should be confirmed with a healthcare provider for regular or medicinal use:

Children

Chamomile tea in small, well-diluted amounts is sometimes used traditionally for children, but this should only be done on the advice of a doctor or paediatrician, as safety data in young children are limited.

Teenagers

A standard cup of chamomile tea, prepared as for adults, may be suitable in moderation. Consult a healthcare professional before regular or medicinal use.

Adults

Tea: 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried flowers per cup, up to 3 to 4 cups daily. Tablets, capsules and standardised extracts: follow the product label, as strength varies between products, or take as directed by a practitioner.

Older Adults

Chamomile tea in typical amounts is generally well tolerated. However, people taking blood-thinning, sedative or other regular medicines should consult a doctor before regular use.

Note: This dosage information is general in nature and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using chamomile regularly, particularly alongside other medicines.

Most people tolerate chamomile well, but the following side effects may occur:

Allergic Reactions

People allergic to the Asteraceae (daisy) family, such as ragweed, daisies or marigolds, may react to chamomile with symptoms ranging from mild skin irritation to, rarely, a serious reaction such as swelling or difficulty breathing. Seek urgent medical help if this occurs.

Skin Reactions

Topical use can occasionally cause contact irritation, redness or itching at the site of application.

Digestive Upset

Drinking large amounts of chamomile tea may cause nausea or vomiting in some people.

Drowsiness

Chamomile's potential sedative effect can cause drowsiness, particularly when combined with alcohol or other sedating medicines. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

Chamomile may interact with certain medicines. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any herbal products, supplements and medicines you are taking before using chamomile regularly.

Blood-Thinning Medicines

Chamomile contains compounds that have raised concerns about a potential interaction with anticoagulant medicines. At least one case report described increased anticoagulant effects in a person taking warfarin and chamomile (Segal & Pilote, 2006). However, clinical evidence of this interaction is limited. Use caution alongside warfarin, aspirin or clopidogrel, and seek medical advice if you notice unusual bruising or bleeding.

Sedative Medicines and Alcohol

Chamomile may add to the drowsiness caused by benzodiazepines, other sedatives and alcohol, potentially increasing sleepiness.

Immunosuppressant Medicines

Evidence of clinically significant interactions between chamomile and immunosuppressant medicines is limited. However, chamomile may affect drug metabolism or immune-related pathways, so it should be used cautiously alongside immunosuppressant medicines, such as cyclosporine, and only after consulting a doctor or pharmacist.

Anti-Inflammatory Medicines (NSAIDs)

Evidence of a clinically significant interaction between chamomile and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is limited. However, people taking NSAIDs regularly should consult a doctor or pharmacist before using chamomile supplements or concentrated extracts.

Storage of Chamomile

Store dried chamomile flowers, tea bags, tablets or oil in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent spoilage, and keep out of reach of children. Do not use beyond the expiry date printed on the pack, and dispose of any unused or expired product according to local disposal guidance.

• Chamomile is traditionally used, and has been studied, for supporting relaxation and mild sleep difficulties, although evidence of its effectiveness in humans is limited.
• It is commonly used to help settle mild indigestion, bloating and wind, though it is not a treatment for serious or persistent digestive conditions.
• Flavonoids and terpenoids in chamomile have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity in laboratory studies and may support its traditional use for calming mild skin irritation.
• Chamomile may interact with certain medicines, including blood-thinning and sedative medicines, while evidence for interactions with immunosuppressants is limited. Anyone taking regular medication should check with a doctor or pharmacist first.
• People allergic to ragweed or other Asteraceae family plants should avoid chamomile.
• The safety of chamomile during pregnancy has not been well established, so pregnant women should consult a healthcare provider before using it.