Chamomile (Matricaria recutita, Chamaemelum nobile)

Reviewed by the HeyPsych Medical Review Board

Board-certified psychiatrists and mental health professionals

Published September 3, 2026•Updated September 3, 2026•Reviewed September 3, 2026

Indications

Primary Indications

Anxiety and stressInsomnia and sleep qualityGastrointestinal discomfortTopical wound healing

Mechanism

Chamomile flavonoids such as apigenin bind to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain, enhancing GABAergic neurotransmission and producing anxiolytic and sedative effects. Anti-inflammatory compounds such as bisabolol and chamazulene reduce cytokine activity, supporting gastrointestinal and skin healing.

Dosing

Adult Dosing

typical: 220–1100 mg/day of standardized extract; or 1–3 cups of chamomile tea brewed from 2–3 g dried flowers

note: Higher doses may cause sedation; extracts standardized to apigenin are preferred in studies.

Dosage Forms

Tea
Capsules
Extracts
Essential oil (topical or aromatherapy)

Onset Duration

Onset: Within 30–60 minutes (tea or extract). Duration: Effects last 4–6 hours.

Adverse Effects

Common Side Effects

• Drowsiness

• Nausea

• Allergic reactions

⚠️ Serious Side Effects

Anaphylaxis (rare, in Asteraceae-sensitive individuals)
Increased bleeding risk with anticoagulants

Warnings

Critical Safety Information

→Avoid in individuals with ragweed or related allergies.
→Caution with concurrent sedatives or anticoagulants.
→Not recommended in pregnancy in medicinal doses.

Interactions

With: Benzodiazepines, sedatives, alcohol

Risk: Excess sedation

Action: Monitor closely

With: Warfarin and anticoagulants

Risk: Increased bleeding risk

Action: Avoid or monitor INR

Monitoring

Signs of allergy
Bleeding risk if on anticoagulants
Sedation level if combined with CNS depressants

Special Populations

👶Pregnancy

Avoid high doses; mild tea may be safe

🤱Breastfeeding

Likely safe in moderate amounts (tea); avoid concentrated extracts

👧Children & Adolescents (Under 18)

Mild tea may be safe for older children; avoid in infants

👴Older Adults (65+)

Generally safe; monitor for excess sedation

Tapering

Not required; no withdrawal symptoms expected.

Clinical Notes

One of the best-studied herbal teas for anxiety and sleep.
Clinical trial evidence supports efficacy for generalized anxiety disorder.
Chamomile is often used in integrative care for sleep hygiene and stress management.

This treatment information is for educational purposes only. Treatment decisions should be made in consultation with qualified healthcare professionals based on individual circumstances, symptoms, and medical history. Do not attempt treatment without professional guidance.

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