Chamomile
Chamomile: what NIH says about anxiety, sleep and colic, German versus Roman chamomile, allergy risks and possible interactions with warfarin and birth control pills.
Content last updated . This page has not been medically reviewed.
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Overview
There are two types of chamomile, German and Roman; NIH's summary covers German chamomile. It was an important medicinal herb in ancient China, Egypt, Greece and Rome, and is promoted today for colds, indigestion, anxiety, insomnia, infant colic, cough and other conditions, as a skin treatment and as a mouthwash. [1]Names and parts
German chamomile is Matricaria recutita (also Matricaria chamomilla, which GBIF accepts). [1][2] Roman chamomile is a different plant, Chamaemelum nobile. [1][2] Check which one a product contains.What the research shows (NIH summary)
NIH says studies have not produced sufficient reliable evidence to rate clinical usefulness, and some studies test chamomile plus other herbs. [1]| Use | What NIH says | Strength of evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Generalized anxiety disorder and related depression | Some preliminary studies suggest a chamomile supplement might help. [1] | Preliminary |
| Diarrhea in children and infant colic | Certain herb combinations including chamomile may help, but chamomile alone has not been shown to. [1] | Combination products only |
| Mouth inflammation from cancer treatment | Small studies suggest mouthwashes might prevent or treat it. [1] | Small studies |
| Insomnia | Very little information. A 2019 review found one study, with no benefit. [1] | Insufficient |
Safety
- Likely safe in the amounts found in teas and foods; possibly safe for medicinal use short term. Side effects are uncommon: nausea, dizziness, and allergic reactions that can be severe, including anaphylaxis. [1]
- Allergy: more likely in people allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds or daisies. Near the eyes it might cause irritation. [1]
- Hormone-sensitive conditions: chamomile might have some estrogen-like effects, might decrease the effect of birth control pills (preliminary studies), and might worsen conditions sensitive to estrogen, such as breast or uterine cancer. [1]
- Interactions: reported with warfarin and some medicines processed by the liver; theoretical with sedatives. [1]
- Little is known about pregnancy or breastfeeding. [1]
Frequently asked questions
Does chamomile tea help you sleep?
NIH found very little information on insomnia; a 2019 review found one study with no benefit. [1]
Is chamomile safe with warfarin?
Interactions between chamomile and warfarin have been reported. Ask your pharmacist or clinician. [1]
References
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH). Chamomile: Usefulness and Safety. Page last updated November 2024.
- GBIF Secretariat. GBIF Backbone Taxonomy. Names checked 2026-10-22 through the GBIF species match service.
Education, not medical advice. This page is for general information. It does not diagnose or treat any condition and is not a substitute for care from a qualified health professional. Natural does not automatically mean safe. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before changing your care, especially if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a health condition.