Chamomile
Matricaria chamomilla
also known as German chamomile, Wild chamomile, Hungarian chamomile
A daisy-like flower with a long history of use for digestive comfort, mild relaxation, sleep support, and skin soothing.
- Supports relaxation
- Mild calming effect for anxiety
- Supports sleep onset
- Soothes digestive discomfort
- Carminative — eases gas and bloating
- Provides anti-inflammatory bisabolol and chamazulene
- Apigenin binds GABA-A receptors gently
- Topical use supports skin irritation
Active in Apigenin, Bisabolol, Chamazulene, Matricin, Flavonoids.
Avoid if allergic to ragweed, daisies, or other Asteraceae plants
Use caution with blood thinners (warfarin) — coumarin content
Avoid concentrated extracts in pregnancy
Discontinue 2 weeks before surgery
Research
- Amelioration of experimentally induced-arthritis by guaiazulene through targeting inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers in Wistar rat.
- Effect of Chamomile Aromatherapy on Pain and Anxiety Management in Hospital Settings: A Scoping Review.
- Alleviation of adverse effects associated with α-glucosidase inhibitors by Ocimum basilicum L., Matricaria chamomilla L., and Salvia officinalis L. reveals novel selective inhibition of Bacillus α-glucosidase by acarbose.
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Common questions
It's one of the most widely used herbs for this. Chamomile has a mild calming effect and its apigenin content gently binds GABA receptors, the same system targeted by anti-anxiety medications, just far more subtly.
Avoid it. Chamomile is in the same plant family as ragweed and daisies, so cross-reactive allergic reactions are a real possibility.
Use caution. Chamomile contains coumarin compounds, so combined with warfarin the effect can add up more than expected.
Concentrated extracts are best avoided. Occasional tea is generally considered lower-risk, but talk to your provider before using it regularly.