{"id":1842,"date":"2020-07-02T11:18:29","date_gmt":"2020-07-02T10:18:29","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/84.18.216.250\/~herbalreality\/?post_type=herb&p=1842"},"modified":"2026-04-16T14:10:07","modified_gmt":"2026-04-16T13:10:07","slug":"chamomile","status":"publish","type":"herb","link":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/chamomile\/","title":{"rendered":"Chamomile"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":324824,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","beyondwords_generate_audio":"1","beyondwords_integration_method":"rest-api","beyondwords_project_id":"47224","beyondwords_content_id":"08513774-8c56-4b85-b7f0-3138826afa52","beyondwords_preview_token":"bd5c4673-b656-448d-8328-8548528b3592","beyondwords_player_content":"","beyondwords_player_style":"","beyondwords_language_code":"","beyondwords_language_id":"","beyondwords_title_voice_id":"","beyondwords_body_voice_id":"","beyondwords_summary_voice_id":"","beyondwords_error_message":"","beyondwords_disabled":"","beyondwords_delete_content":"","beyondwords_podcast_id":"","beyondwords_hash":"","publish_post_to_speechkit":"","speechkit_hash":"","speechkit_generate_audio":"","speechkit_project_id":"","speechkit_podcast_id":"","speechkit_error_message":"","speechkit_disabled":"","speechkit_access_key":"","speechkit_error":"","speechkit_info":"","speechkit_response":"","speechkit_retries":"","speechkit_status":"","speechkit_updated_at":"","_speechkit_link":"","_speechkit_text":""},"tags":[79,76,42,77,43,81,62,80,78,74],"conditions":[685,696,698,695,700],"sustainability":[1576],"sense":[17,18,786],"western_action":[1003,990,992,1822,993,994,997,2061,1001,1007,1017,1018,1019,1021,1025],"chinese_action":[],"ayurvedic_action":[],"energetics_action":[1908,1498,1382,1487,1490,1494],"writer":[2020],"region":[1893],"class_list":["post-1842","herb","type-herb","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tag-anxiety","tag-chamomile","tag-digestion","tag-german-chamomile","tag-indigestion","tag-menstrual","tag-mouth","tag-period","tag-tension","tag-women","conditions-digestive-system","conditions-nervous-system","conditions-reproductive-system","conditions-respiratory-system","conditions-skin","sustainability-green-sustainability-status","sense-aromatic","sense-bitter","sense-cooling","western_action-carminative","western_action-analgesic","western_action-anti-inflammatory","western_action-antiemetic","western_action-antimicrobial","western_action-antioxidant","western_action-antispasmodic","western_action-anxiolytic","western_action-bitter","western_action-diaphoretic","western_action-nervine","western_action-relaxant","western_action-sedative","western_action-stomachic","western_action-vulnerary","energetics_action-aromatic","energetics_action-bitter","energetics_action-cool","energetics_action-dry","energetics_action-relaxing","energetics_action-sweet","writer-rebecca-collison-walker","region-western-herbs"],"acf":{"last_reviewed":"20260305","herb_author":2020,"banner_text":"Chamomile is a renowned relaxant and digestive herb","latin_name":"Matricaria chamomilla<\/em>","pseudonym_name":"","family_name":"Asteraceae","herb_summary":"As a carminative and anxiolytic chamomile relieves stress and anxiety-related disorders for all ages, particularly when they negatively impact digestion.","key_benefits":"Nervous tension\r\nDigestive issues\r\nWomen\u2019s health\r\nChildren health\r\nInflammation in the airways","how_does_it_feel":"The initial scent of dried chamomile flowers is floral with hints of apple and new-mown hay, due to its coumarins. This is followed by the characteristic aroma of the volatile oils, which is a creamy vanilla bean odour with slightly nutty tones.<\/span>\r\n\r\nUpon tasting, the flavour remains floral, with bitter undertones indicative of its volatile oil and sesquiterpene content. The coumarins account for the sweet herbaceous impression and the flavonoids offer a dry astringent feeling and bitter finish.<\/span>","hdif_image_1":13148,"hdif_image_2":187,"hdif_image_3":13249,"hdif_video":"https:\/\/youtu.be\/1A3xCFbHVhc","sense":[17,18,786],"what_can_i_use_it_for":"[caption id=\"attachment_324824\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"516\"]\"Chamomile Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nAs a <\/span>carminative<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>anti-inflammatory<\/span><\/a>,<\/span>\u00a0 chamomile is an accessible first choice for indigestion, colic, flatulence and other digestive upsets, especially when these are linked to stress and nervous tension (1,2). As an <\/span>antispasmodic<\/span><\/a>, it helps to relax smooth muscle in the digestive system and is indicated in gastrointestinal spasms, dyspepsia and functional digestive complaints (1,2).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe safest preparation\u00a0 for use with children is a tea \u2014 to relieve insomnia, colic and general anxiety. It can also be used to treat diarrhoea in children as well as to calm restlessness, irritability or unsettled babies (1,3). The calming and antispasmodic actions also make chamomile a useful herb in the treatment of gum discomfort and irritability during teething (1).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThere is a long tradition of chamomile as a women\u2019s remedy, and it has been shown to be effective in treating dysmenorrhoea<\/a> and amenorrhoea as well as with menopausal symptoms due to its <\/span>nervine<\/span><\/a> quality (1,2).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nChamomile helps to reduce irritation and inflammation in the upper respiratory tract and can often be applied in the form of a <\/span>steam inhalation<\/span><\/a> for respiratory infections and excess catarrh (1).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nExternally, chamomile acts as an anti-inflammatory and <\/span>antimicrobial<\/span><\/a> and helps to soothe inflamed skin conditions, such as <\/span>eczema<\/span><\/a>, dermatitis and skin irritations (2). It can be applied as a cream, wash or ointments in such cases (4).\u00a0<\/span>","into_the_heart_of":"[caption id=\"attachment_190\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"510\"]\"Chamomile Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nEnergetically, chamomile is considered a cooling, relaxing and aromatic herb and suited to tension, inflamed states and nervous hypersensitivity. For this reason, it has long been regarded as one of the most effective remedies in sensitive individuals and children (5). <\/span>\r\n\r\nAs a gentle astringent, it is drying and helps to soothe and dry excess secretions and inflammation, specifically with regard to mucous membranes in the respiratory and digestive systems (4,5). It helps to soften tension and agitation in nervous individuals. Wood describes it as a herb with a particular affinity for the gut-brain axis, helping to soothe both parts in equal measure (6). <\/span>\r\n\r\nThe Galenic tradition paradoxically considers chamomile to be warming in an energetic sense (7), whilst others consider it to be both, specifically warming for the digestive system and cooling in terms of reducing inflammatory states (4).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe essential oil that gives chamomile flowers their characteristic aroma and flavour contains sesquiterpenes and other constituents with a range of anti-inflammatory properties. On contact with hot water, one of these, matricin, further generates a distinctive, blue volatile oil (chamazulene) that also has these properties. <\/span>\r\n\r\nChamomile also contains flavonoids including apigenin which is a particularly strong anti-inflammatory and acts on neurotransmitters to calm an overactive nervous system (4,6).\u00a0<\/span>","tradtional_uses":"Traditionally, chamomile has long been used to soothe digestive disturbances, especially when irritation and spasm is present (5). Culpeper placed chamomile under the dominion of the sun, and described it as warming, drying and strengthening to the stomach (7). It was seen to restore vitality by relieving cold, stagnant and weakened digestive systems. Chamomile tea was often prescribed to relieve wind, cramping, bloating and colic (7). <\/span>\r\n\r\nThe Eclectic physicians regarded chamomile as a herb that soothes nervous irritability arising from pain or spasm, indicating it specifically for colic in infants, digestive irritability and teething children (8).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs a topical application, it was often applied to soothe skin inflammation, and aid in the healing of wounds (7,8). It was regarded as a key herb with gentle, yet profound effects on multiple body systems.\u00a0<\/span>","what_practioners_say":"

\"NervousNervous system<\/span><\/a><\/h3>\r\nAs a nervine, relaxant and mild sedative, chamomile can be applied to aid with restlessness, anxiety, irritability and insomnia. The relaxing effects can be felt from the nervous system throughout the body (1,2). The flavonoid apigenin interacts with GABA-A receptors in the central nervous system to bring a sense of calm and offer anxiolytic effects (9).<\/span>\r\n\r\n\u00a0 Chamomile can be applied to help with insomnia and sleeplessness, especially if the cause is anxiety (4). It can be applied to any type of nervous tension, helping to relax tissues and discomfort (5).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Digestive<\/span><\/a><\/h3>\r\nChamomile is indicated in digestive spasms, bloating, cramping, indigestion and colic. The antispasmodic actions relax intestinal spasm, and combined with its carminative properties it is a useful herb in the treatment of abdominal pain and cramping (2,4). It can also be applied in the treatment of diarrhoea, especially when the cause is of nervous origin. <\/span>\r\n\r\nThe flavonoids act to inhibit smooth muscle contraction, helping to relax tissues and relieve tension (4,5). The anti-inflammatory properties indicate it in a wide range of inflammatory bowel conditions, and it can also be applied to soothe stomach ulcers (1).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Respiratory<\/span><\/a><\/h3>\r\nAs an inhalation (in steaming hot water) it is indicated in sinusitis, chronic <\/span>asthma<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>bronchitis<\/span><\/a>, hayfever and influenza. It helps to clear excess mucus and phlegm from the lungs in addition to reducing inflammation and reducing muscular tension in the respiratory system, particularly where this may be a result of infection (4,5).The volatile oils contribute to reducing inflammation in the airways, as well as provide antimicrobial properties (2).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Skin health<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\r\nChamomile\u2019s anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and soothing properties are useful in a range of inflammatory skin conditions including dermatitis and eczema (2). It can also be applied to relieve wounds, burns, nappy rash, bites and stings. Chamomile flowers were traditionally added to children\u2019s baths to help relax them before bed but also for soothing childhood eczema (2,4).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Eye health<\/span><\/a><\/h3>\r\nChamomile is a soothing herb that can reduce minor eye irritation in the form of a cooled infusion applied as a compress. It can help to reduce soreness, redness and irritation of the eyes (4).\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>","research":"[caption id=\"attachment_7803\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"511\"]\"Chamomile Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n

Effects of chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla<\/i> L.) on sleep: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials<\/h3>\r\nThis systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out to evaluate the effect of chamomile (<\/span>Matricaria chamomilla<\/span><\/i>) on sleep quality. The analysis included 10 clinical trials with a total of 772 participants, consisting of adults with insomnia or sleep disturbances as well as some healthy populations. The studies evaluated various chamomile preparations including tea, capsules, extracts and aromatherapy, with treatment durations ranging from two to eight weeks. <\/span>\r\n\r\nThe primary outcome measure was sleep quality assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), while secondary outcomes included sleep latency, sleep duration and night awakenings. The meta-analysis showed a significant reduction in PSQI scores (weighted mean difference \u22121.88, 95% CI \u22123.46 to \u22120.31), indicating improved sleep quality.<\/span>\r\n\r\n Chamomile particularly improved sleep maintenance and reduced night awakenings, although effects on sleep duration and daytime functioning were inconsistent. The authors concluded that chamomile shows promise in improving sleep quality (10).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

The effect of oral chamomile on anxiety: A systematic review of clinical trials<\/h3>\r\nThis systematic review examined chamomile in the treatment of anxiety disorders. Out of a total of 389 articles, 10 clinical trials involving adults with anxiety symptoms or diagnosed anxiety disorders were included. The interventions consisted of oral chamomile preparations (capsules, extracts or tea) administered over several weeks.<\/span>\r\n\r\n The primary outcomes measured were validated anxiety scores such as the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), while secondary outcomes included mood and stress measures. The review found that 9 out of the 10 clinical trials reported significant reductions in anxiety symptoms in the chamomile groups compared with control groups. <\/span>\r\n\r\nThe authors suggested that chamomile\u2019s anxiolytic effects may relate to constituents such as apigenin influencing neurotransmitter pathways and the hypothalamic\u2013pituitary\u2013adrenal (HPA) axis. Overall, the review concluded that chamomile is a safe and effective herb with promising anxiolytic potential in the treatment of anxiety (9).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Anti-inflammatory effect of chamomile from randomized clinical trials: A systematic review and meta-analyses<\/h3>\r\nThis systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated chamomile (<\/span>Matricaria chamomilla<\/span><\/i>) and its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial actions, focusing on clinical outcomes from randomised controlled trials. Eleven randomised clinical trials published between 2004 and 2024 involving adult human participants with conditions affecting oral mucosa, gingival tissues, or skin, primarily involving inflammatory or infectious oral conditions such as mucositis or gingival inflammation. <\/span>\r\n\r\nThe included studies investigated topical or oral chamomile preparations, including mouthwashes, gels, and extracts, administered for varying durations depending on the clinical trial design. The primary outcomes assessed in the meta-analysis included anti-inflammatory effects, pain severity, gingival bleeding, microbial load, mucosal inflammation, and gingival index, while secondary outcomes included mucosal recovery and wound healing indicators. <\/span>\r\n\r\nResults showed that chamomile produced a statistically significant reduction in pain severity (\u22120.61; 95% CI \u22120.76 to \u22120.46) and significant improvements in mucosal inflammation and tissue recovery, supporting its anti-inflammatory and tissue-healing effects. The authors concluded that chamomile demonstrates significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects and supports mucosal healing (11).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Effectiveness of chamomile tea on glycemic control and serum lipid profile in patients with type 2 diabetes<\/h3>\r\nThis single-blind randomised controlled clinical trial assessed the effects of chamomile tea on glycaemic control and serum lipid profile in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The study included 64 adults (male and female) aged between 30\u201360 years diagnosed with T2DM. Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n = 32) or a control group (n = 32). <\/span>\r\n\r\nThe intervention group consumed chamomile tea prepared with 3 g of dried chamomile flowers in 150 ml of hot water, three times daily immediately after meals for eight weeks, while the control group consumed water over the same period.<\/span>\r\n\r\n The primary outcome measures were markers of glycaemic control, including HbA1c, serum insulin levels, and insulin resistance measured using the homeostatic model assessment (HOMA-IR). <\/span>\r\n\r\nSecondary outcomes included serum lipid parameters, specifically total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Results showed that chamomile tea consumption significantly reduced HbA1c (p = 0.03), insulin levels (p < 0.001), HOMA-IR (p < 0.001), total cholesterol (p = 0.001), triglycerides (p < 0.001), and LDL cholesterol (p = 0.05) compared with the control group. <\/span>\r\n\r\nHowever, HDL cholesterol levels did not change significantly. The study concluded that chamomile tea may have beneficial effects on glycaemic control and lipid metabolism in patients with type 2 diabetes, suggesting potential metabolic effects of the plant (12).\u00a0<\/span>","did_you_know":"Gardeners often planted chamomile to improve the health and flavour of neighbouring plants, especially basil and mint. It was seen to strengthen surrounding plants and aid their recovery from stress or disease, and was referred to as a \u201cdoctor to the garden\u201d (13).<\/span>","additional_information_right":{"illustration":270357},"additional_information_left":{"botany":"Chamomile is an annual plant with an erect, many branched stem growing to a height of 10\u201380 cm. The long and narrow leaves are bi- to tripinnate.<\/span>\r\n\r\n The flower heads form separately at the end of each branching stem, they have a diameter of 10\u201330 mm, and they are pedunculate and heterogamous.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe golden yellow tubular florets with five teeth are 1.5\u20132.5 mm long, ending always in a glandulous tube. The 11\u201327 white petals are 6\u201311 mm long, 3.5 mm wide, and arranged concentrically.<\/span>\r\n\r\n The roots are thin and spindle-shaped only penetrating flatly into the soil.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe receptacle is 6\u20138 mm wide, flat in the beginning and conical, cone-shaped later, hollow\u2014the latter being a very important characteristic of true chamomile that can be used to discern between the other chamomiles and pineapple weed (which are often confused). <\/span>\r\n\r\nTrue chamomile is also without paleae. The fruit is a yellowish brown achene (14).<\/span>","common_names":"