Chamomile
Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile is a gentle calming herb commonly used for relaxation, sleep support, and digestive comfort.
Primary Use
Supports relaxation and sleep quality
Common Forms
Tea, Capsule
Typical Dose
1-2 teaspoons dried flowers per cup
Time to Effect
2-4 weeks
Overview
Chamomile is one of the most widely used herbal remedies in the world. It has deep roots in European, Middle Eastern, and traditional household medicine, where it has long been used as a tea for restlessness, stomach upset, and minor inflammatory complaints.
Modern use still centers on those same themes. Chamomile tea and extracts are often chosen for mild anxiety, trouble unwinding at night, digestive tension, and menstrual discomfort. It is popular because it is generally gentle and familiar, though people with ragweed-family allergies need to be cautious.
How It Works
Chamomile contains flavonoids such as apigenin, along with volatile oils and other plant compounds. Apigenin appears to interact with receptors involved in calming nervous system activity, which may help explain chamomile's reputation for relaxation and sleep support.
The herb also has mild antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory actions, which is why it is often used for digestive cramping, gas, and tension-related stomach discomfort. In practical terms, it works more like a gentle settle-down herb than a heavy sedative.
What It's Used For
Supports relaxation and sleep quality
Chamomile is one of the most common herbs used for occasional sleeplessness and difficulty winding down. Human research suggests modest benefits for sleep quality, especially when stress or tension is part of the picture.
Helps ease mild anxiety
Chamomile extracts have shown supportive effects for mild generalized anxiety symptoms in some studies. The effect is usually gentle and cumulative rather than immediate.
Promotes digestive comfort
Traditional use strongly supports chamomile for gas, cramping, and nervous stomach symptoms. Its calming and antispasmodic effects likely work together here.
May ease menstrual discomfort
Chamomile tea and extracts are often used for menstrual cramps and irritability. Some small studies and traditional use support this application.
Dots indicate strength of research evidence (5 = strongest)
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have a medical condition or take medications.
Last updated: March 2026