Chamomile is one of the most widely consumed herbal teas in the world. If you have ever reached for a cup of chamomile tea before bed or dabbed chamomile cream on irritated skin, you are already familiar with this ancient medicinal plant. But does the science actually back up the hype?

This guide examines the evidence behind chamomile’s purported benefits, its side effects, and seven contraindications you should know before using it. I will be honest about where the research is strong and where it falls short.

What Is Chamomile?

Chamomile refers to several daisy-like plants in the Asteraceae family. The two most commonly used species are German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile). German chamomile has the most commercial and medical research behind it 1.

The plant has been used medicinally for thousands of years across Europe, Egypt, and Asia. Ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians documented its use for fevers, inflammation, and digestive complaints. The name itself comes from the Greek “khamaimelon,” meaning “earth apple,” a reference to its apple-like scent.

Modern preparations include herbal teas (by far the most popular), essential oils, tinctures, capsules, and topical creams. The active compounds thought to be responsible for chamomile’s effects include:

Apigenin - a flavonoid that binds to GABA receptors in the brain and may produce calming effects
Bisabolol - a terpene with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties
Chamazulene - gives chamomile oil its distinctive blue colour and has anti-inflammatory activity
Various flavonoids - including quercetin and luteolin, which act as antioxidants

People often combine chamomile with other calming herbs like passionflower or valerian in sleep formulations, or use chamomile essential oil in aromatherapy and skincare products.

8 Evidence-Based Benefits of Chamomile

1. May Help With Oral Mucositis From Cancer Treatment

Oral mucositis is a painful inflammation of the mouth lining that affects many cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation to the head and neck. It causes ulcers, difficulty swallowing, and can interrupt cancer treatment.

A 2022 systematic review of six randomised controlled trials involving 492 patients found that topical chamomile preparations (1% to 2.5% solutions applied one to four times daily) helped prevent or treat oral mucositis caused by chemoradiotherapy 2.

My take: This is one of the more promising applications for chamomile, with multiple trials supporting its use. The topical application makes sense given chamomile’s anti-inflammatory properties, and the risk is low. If you are undergoing cancer treatment and struggling with mouth sores, it is worth discussing with your oncology team.

2. May Reduce Primary Menstrual Pain

Primary dysmenorrhoea refers to cramping pain during menstruation that is not caused by an underlying pelvic condition. It results from uterine contractions and ischaemia triggered by prostaglandins.

A 2021 systematic review of seven clinical studies with 1,033 participants concluded that chamomile showed potential as an active ingredient for treating primary menstrual pain and reducing menstrual bleeding 3.

The catch: The studies included in this review varied considerably in their methods, dosages, and how they measured pain. I would not expect dramatic relief from chamomile alone, but it may provide modest benefit as part of a broader approach to managing period pain.

3. May Improve Sleep Quality

Poor sleep affects everything from metabolism and appetite to immune function and mood. More than half of older adults report significant sleep problems.

A randomised controlled trial of 60 elderly nursing home residents found that oral chamomile extract (400 mg daily for 28 days) improved sleep quality compared to placebo 4. The mechanism likely involves apigenin binding to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain.

Several other small studies have shown similar results. A 2019 systematic review published in Phytotherapy Research found that chamomile extract significantly improved sleep quality compared to placebo in clinical trials 5.

Worth noting: The sample sizes in these studies are small. Chamomile is not going to knock you out like a sleeping pill, but if you enjoy a cup of chamomile tea before bed and find it relaxing, there is reasonable evidence that it may genuinely help rather than just being a comforting ritual. For more evidence-based sleep aids, see our article on alternative therapies for insomnia.

4. May Help Generalised Anxiety Disorder

Generalised anxiety disorder involves excessive, persistent worry lasting at least six months. Symptoms include restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbance.

A 26-week randomised controlled trial of 93 people with moderate to severe generalised anxiety disorder found that chamomile extract significantly reduced anxiety symptoms compared to placebo 6. However, it did not significantly reduce recurrence rates after discontinuation.

The anxiolytic effect is thought to involve apigenin and other flavonoids modulating GABA, serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline neurotransmitters. For other supplements that may support calm, see our article on L-theanine and GABA.

Reality check: Chamomile is not a replacement for proper anxiety treatment, which may include therapy and medication. But for mild to moderate symptoms, it appears to offer genuine, if modest, benefit with a good safety profile.

5. May Alleviate Migraine Symptoms

Migraines are disabling headaches affecting roughly 20% of women and 10% of men. Beyond the headache itself, sufferers often experience nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and visual disturbances.

A double-blind randomised trial of 100 migraine patients found that topical chamomile essential oil gel applied to the temples reduced pain, nausea, vomiting, and light sensitivity compared to placebo 7.

My assessment: The topical application is interesting and the results look positive. However, this is a single study and migraines have notoriously high placebo response rates. Worth trying if you are looking for additional migraine management options, but do not expect it to replace proven treatments. For more comprehensive approaches, see our article on complementary therapies for migraine.

6. May Support Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment

Carpal tunnel syndrome results from compression of the median nerve at the wrist. Symptoms include pain, numbness, burning, and tingling in the hand and fingers.

A four-week randomised controlled trial of 86 patients with mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome found that topical chamomile oil combined with wrist splinting improved function and symptom severity compared to splinting alone 8. Nerve conduction also showed some improvement.

In practice: This is a niche application, but the results suggest chamomile oil may be a useful add-on to standard carpal tunnel management. The anti-inflammatory properties could theoretically reduce swelling around the nerve.

7. May Benefit Blood Sugar Control

Type 2 diabetes is characterised by high blood glucose and affects hundreds of millions of people worldwide. Long-term high blood sugar damages blood vessels, nerves, eyes, and kidneys.

An eight-week controlled study of 64 diabetics found that drinking chamomile tea three times daily after meals improved glycated haemoglobin, serum insulin levels, insulin resistance, and markers of oxidative stress 9. Antioxidant enzyme activities also increased significantly.

Worth noting: This was a relatively small study and chamomile tea should not be considered a diabetes treatment. However, if you have type 2 diabetes and enjoy chamomile tea, these results suggest it may offer some metabolic benefits beyond simple hydration. For those with diabetes affecting bladder function, see our article on diabetic bladder dysfunction.

8. May Ease Osteoarthritis Symptoms

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, characterised by cartilage breakdown in joints. The knee is particularly often affected.

A three-week controlled study of 84 people with knee osteoarthritis found that topical chamomile oil significantly reduced the need for anti-inflammatory medications compared to both anti-inflammatory gel and placebo 10. There were also modest improvements in stiffness, pain, and mobility.

My take: Topical chamomile oil appears to have genuine anti-inflammatory effects on joints. It is not going to rebuild cartilage, but as an adjunct therapy for managing osteoarthritis symptoms, the evidence is reasonably encouraging. See also our guide to supplements for osteoarthritis.

Side Effects of Chamomile

Chamomile has a long history of safe use and is classified as “Generally Recognised as Safe” (GRAS) by the US FDA. Most people tolerate it well.

However, allergic reactions do occur in some individuals. Reported reactions include:

Skin rash or contact dermatitis
Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, cramping)
Sneezing and nasal congestion
Asthma symptoms in susceptible individuals
In rare severe cases, anaphylaxis

Most reactions are associated with oral ingestion, though some cases relate to topical application or inhalation of essential oils. People with existing allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family (ragweed, daisies, chrysanthemums, marigolds) are at higher risk.

If you experience any unusual symptoms after using chamomile, discontinue use and seek medical advice if symptoms are severe.

7 Contraindications and Safety Precautions

1. Asteraceae (Daisy Family) Allergies

If you have known allergies to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, or other Asteraceae plants, avoid chamomile. Cross-reactivity is common, and reactions can range from mild skin irritation to severe anaphylaxis.

2. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

The safety of chamomile during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established through rigorous study. Some sources suggest chamomile may have uterine-stimulating effects at high doses. Until better safety data exists, pregnant and nursing women should probably avoid concentrated chamomile supplements, though occasional chamomile tea is likely fine.

3. Young Children and Impaired Liver/Kidney Function

Safety data in infants, young children, and people with significant liver or kidney impairment is limited. Use caution or avoid altogether in these populations.

4. Bleeding Disorders and Anticoagulant Medications

Chamomile contains coumarins that may have mild blood-thinning effects. People with bleeding disorders, those taking anticoagulants (warfarin, heparin) or antiplatelet drugs (aspirin, clopidogrel), and those scheduled for surgery within two weeks should avoid concentrated chamomile preparations.

5. Sedative Medications and Herbs

Chamomile may enhance the effects of sedative medications, including benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and sleep aids. It may also interact with other calming herbs like valerian, kava, or passionflower. While this is not necessarily dangerous, combined sedation may be stronger than expected.

6. Drug Interactions

Chamomile is metabolised by cytochrome P450 enzymes in the liver. It may interact with medications processed through these pathways, including:

Blood sugar-lowering medications (may enhance hypoglycaemic effects)
Blood pressure medications
Antihistamines
Antifungal medications
Oral contraceptives

If you take prescription medications, discuss chamomile use with your pharmacist or doctor.

7. Hormone-Sensitive Conditions

Some components of chamomile may have weak oestrogenic activity. People with a history of hormone-sensitive cancers (breast, uterine, ovarian) or those taking anti-oestrogen medications (tamoxifen) should consult their healthcare provider before using chamomile supplements.

How to Use Chamomile

Tea: The most common form. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers (or a tea bag) in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Many people drink 1-3 cups daily.

Capsules/Extracts: Standardised extracts typically provide 220-1,100 mg of chamomile extract per dose. Study dosages have ranged from 400-1,500 mg daily.

Topical applications: Creams, oils, and gels containing chamomile can be applied to skin or joints. For essential oil, always dilute in a carrier oil before skin application.

Mouthwash: For oral mucositis, chamomile rinses (1-2.5% concentration) used 1-4 times daily have been studied.

Summary

Chamomile is a well-tolerated herbal remedy with millennia of traditional use. Modern research provides reasonable evidence supporting its use for:

Soothing oral mucositis from cancer treatment
Easing menstrual cramps
Improving sleep quality
Reducing mild to moderate anxiety
Topical relief for migraines, carpal tunnel, and joint pain
Possible benefits for blood sugar control

The effects are generally modest rather than dramatic. Chamomile works best as part of an overall health approach rather than a standalone treatment for serious conditions.

Most people can safely enjoy chamomile tea. However, those with Asteraceae allergies, pregnant women, people on blood thinners or sedatives, and those with hormone-sensitive conditions should exercise caution or avoid concentrated chamomile preparations.

When in doubt, have a conversation with your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you take prescription medications or have underlying health conditions.

References

Srivastava JK, et al. Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with bright future. Mol Med Report. 2010. PubMed
de Matos Loureiro ÂV, et al. Chamomile in oral mucositis prevention: systematic review. Support Care Cancer. 2022. PubMed
Khalesi ZB, et al. Efficacy of chamomile in primary dysmenorrhea: systematic review. J Pharmacopuncture. 2019. PubMed
Adib-Hajbaghery M, Mousavi SN. The effects of chamomile extract on sleep quality among elderly people. Complement Ther Med. 2017. PubMed
Hieu TH, et al. Therapeutic efficacy of chamomile in anxiety and sleep: systematic review. Phytother Res. 2019. PubMed
Mao JJ, et al. Long-term chamomile therapy for generalised anxiety disorder. Phytomedicine. 2016. PubMed
Zargaran A, et al. Evaluation of the effect of topical chamomile on migraine. Neurol Sci. 2018. PubMed
Hashempur MH, et al. Chamomile oil for carpal tunnel syndrome: RCT. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2017. PubMed
Rafraf M, et al. Effects of chamomile tea on glycemic control in type 2 diabetes. Nutrition. 2015. PubMed
Shoara R, et al. Topical chamomile oil for knee osteoarthritis. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2015. PubMed