# Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/chamomile
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 8 / 10
**Category:** European
**Also Known As:** Matricaria chamomilla, Matricaria recutita, Chamaemelum nobile, German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile, Wild Chamomile, True Chamomile

## Overview

Chamomile exerts its calming effects primarily through the flavonoid apigenin, which binds to GABA-A receptors in the brain, reducing anxiety and promoting sleep. Its [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties stem from compounds like apigenin and α-bisabolol, inhibiting pathways such as COX-2 and NF-κB to soothe inflammation.

## Health Benefits

• Traditional digestive aid for gastrointestinal spasms (traditional evidence only)
• Mild sedative effects through GABA_A receptor binding via apigenin content (mechanistic evidence only)
• [Anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties from sesquiterpene lactones (0.6% content, no clinical trials)
• Spasmolytic action on smooth muscle from volatile oils (traditional use evidence)
• Potential anxiety relief as a calmative (traditional use only, no RCTs)

## Mechanism of Action

Chamomile's anxiolytic and sedative effects are primarily mediated by the flavonoid apigenin, which acts as a ligand for central benzodiazepine receptors on the GABA-A receptor complex, enhancing GABAergic neurotransmission. Its [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) actions involve multiple compounds, including apigenin and α-bisabolol, which inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes like COX-2 and nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and suppress NF-κB activation. Furthermore, flavonoids and coumarins contribute to its antispasmodic effects by relaxing smooth muscle, aiding digestive relief.

## Clinical Summary

Clinical trials, including randomized controlled trials, have demonstrated chamomile's efficacy in reducing symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and improving [sleep quality](/ingredients/condition/sleep) in individuals with insomnia. Studies involving hundreds of participants have shown that standardized chamomile extracts significantly decrease anxiety scores and promote sleep onset. Furthermore, research supports its traditional use in gastrointestinal complaints, with trials indicating a reduction in spasms and [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) associated with in[digestion](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) and mild irritable bowel syndrome. These outcomes are largely attributed to its flavonoid and terpenoid content.

## Nutritional Profile

Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is consumed primarily as an herbal infusion rather than a food, so macronutrient contribution is negligible (essentially 0 kcal, 0 g protein, 0 g fat, trace carbohydrates per 240 mL cup of tea). Its therapeutic value derives from its bioactive phytochemical profile:

**Flavonoids:**
• Apigenin: 0.8–1.2% of dry flower weight (primary bioactive; apigenin-7-O-glucoside is the dominant glycoside form). Free apigenin in brewed tea approximately 0.8–1.2 mg per cup. Bioavailability is low (~5–10%) due to poor water solubility, though glycosylated forms show improved intestinal absorption.
• Luteolin: ~0.1–0.3% of dry weight; [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant).
• Quercetin and patuletin glycosides: trace to 0.05% of dry weight.
• Chrysin: trace amounts.

**Volatile/Essential Oil (0.4–1.5% of dry flower weight):**
• Isobutyl angelate: 25–40% of essential oil (characteristic compound distinguishing C. nobile from Matricaria chamomilla).
• α-Bisabolol: 1–5% of essential oil; anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing.
• Chamazulene: 1–5% of essential oil (formed from matricin during steam distillation); potent anti-inflammatory.
• trans-Pinocarveol, 1,8-cineole, and β-pinene: minor terpenoid constituents.
• Nobilin and 3-dehydronobilin (sesquiterpene lactones of the germacranolide type): ~0.6% of dry weight; responsible for spasmolytic and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Angelic and tiglic acid esters: significant proportion of volatile oil.

**Coumarins:**
• Herniarin: ~0.01–0.02% of dry weight.
• Umbelliferone: trace amounts.
• Scopoletin-7-glucoside: trace.

**Polyphenolic acids:**
• Caffeic acid: trace.
• Chlorogenic acid: ~0.01–0.05% of dry weight.
• Ferulic acid: trace.

**Minerals (per 240 mL brewed tea, approximate):**
• Potassium: 15–25 mg
• Calcium: 2–5 mg
• Magnesium: 1–3 mg
• Iron: 0.1–0.2 mg
• Zinc: 0.04–0.09 mg
• Manganese: 0.04–0.1 mg
• Fluoride: 0.1–0.2 mg

**Vitamins:**
• Negligible vitamin content in brewed infusion. Dried flowers contain trace amounts of vitamin A precursors (β-carotene) and ascorbic acid, but concentrations are too low to be nutritionally significant after infusion.

**Polysaccharides:**
• Mucilage polysaccharides (galacturonic acid-rich pectic type): ~5–10% of dry flower weight; contribute to demulcent/soothing gastrointestinal effects but are only partially extracted in aqueous infusion.

**Bioavailability Notes:**
• Apigenin glycosides are hydrolyzed to free apigenin in the gut by β-glucosidases; oral bioavailability of apigenin is estimated at 5–10%, improved modestly by concurrent fat intake.
• Essential oil components are volatile and partially lost during boiling; covered steeping for 5–10 minutes retains ~60–70% of volatile terpenes.
• Chamazulene and α-bisabolol are lipophilic; their extraction into aqueous tea is limited (~10–20% of total content), but substantially higher in ethanolic tinctures or oil-based preparations.
• Sesquiterpene lactones (nobilin) are moderately water-soluble and extracted at ~30–50% efficiency in standard infusion.
• Mineral bioavailability from chamomile tea is generally moderate, though tannin-like polyphenols may slightly inhibit iron absorption.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges exist for Chamaemelum nobile. Traditional use involves flower heads as herbal tea (quantity unspecified), with extracts typically standardized to 0.5% flavonoids or 0.6-2.4% volatile oil content. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Chamomile is generally considered safe, but individuals with allergies to the Asteraceae family (e.g., ragweed, marigolds, daisies) should exercise caution due to potential cross-reactivity. Common side effects are rare but may include mild allergic reactions like skin irritation or anaphylaxis in highly sensitive individuals. Due to its coumarin content, chamomile may theoretically enhance the effects of anticoagulant medications like warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding, although this interaction is considered minor. Additionally, its sedative properties may potentiate the effects of central nervous system depressants, including alcohol, benzodiazepines, and other sedatives. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before use, despite traditional use, due to insufficient safety data.

## Scientific Research

Despite its traditional use, the research dossier reveals no specific human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses for Chamaemelum nobile (Roman chamomile). The EMA assessment notes insufficient clinical data for well-established use, with most scientific evidence actually referring to German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) due to similar composition.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Chamaemelum nobile has been used in European traditional medicine since ancient Greek and Roman times, primarily as a digestive aid, calmative, and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation). It features in Western herbalism for gastrointestinal spasms, anxiety, and skin irritations via teas or oils.

## Synergistic Combinations

Passionflower, Lemon balm, Valerian root, Peppermint, Ginger

## Known Interactions

| Substance | Severity | Summary | URL |
|---|---|---|---|
| BCAAs | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and BCAAs can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/bcaas |
| Peppermint | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and Peppermint can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/peppermint |
| Hibiscus | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and Hibiscus can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/hibiscus |
| Passionflower | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and Passionflower can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/passionflower |
| Lemon Balm | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and Lemon Balm can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/lemon-balm |
| Skullcap | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and Skullcap can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/skullcap |
| Dong Quai | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and Dong Quai can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/dong-quai |
| Black Cohosh | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and Black Cohosh can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/black-cohosh |
| Evening Primrose Oil | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and Evening Primrose Oil can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/evening-primrose-oil |
| Vitex | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and Vitex can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/vitex |
| Shatavari | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and Shatavari can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/shatavari |
| Triphala | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and Triphala can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/triphala |
| Neem | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and Neem can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/neem |
| Gotu Kola | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and Gotu Kola can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/gotu-kola |
| Tribulus Terrestris | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and Tribulus Terrestris can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/tribulus-terrestris |
| Hawthorn Berry | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and Hawthorn Berry can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/hawthorn-berry |
| Olive Leaf Extract | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and Olive Leaf Extract can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/olive-leaf-extract |
| Oregano Oil | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and Oregano Oil can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/oregano-oil |
| Garlic Extract | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and Garlic Extract can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/garlic-extract |
| Cinnamon Extract | SAFE | 🟢 SAFE — Chamomile and Cinnamon Extract can be taken together safely. | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/cinnamon-extract |

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the main difference between German and Roman Chamomile?

German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla or M. recutita) is an annual plant more commonly used for medicinal purposes due to its higher concentration of anti-inflammatory compounds like chamazulene and α-bisabolol. Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is a perennial plant often used in aromatherapy and as an ornamental, with a slightly different chemical profile.

### How does chamomile help with anxiety and sleep?

Chamomile's primary active compound, apigenin, is believed to bind to specific benzodiazepine receptors on the GABA-A complex in the brain. This interaction enhances the activity of GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps calm the nervous system, leading to reduced anxiety and improved sleep onset and quality.

### Can chamomile interact with medications?

Yes, chamomile can interact with certain medications. Its mild coumarin content might theoretically increase the effects of anticoagulant drugs like warfarin, and its sedative properties can potentiate the effects of central nervous system depressants, including alcohol and benzodiazepines. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you are on medication.

### Is chamomile safe for long-term use?

Chamomile is generally considered safe for regular, moderate use by most healthy adults. However, long-term safety data from extensive clinical trials is still developing. Individuals with specific health conditions or those taking other medications should consult their doctor for personalized advice on prolonged use.

### What are the primary bioactive compounds responsible for chamomile's effects?

The main bioactive compounds in chamomile include flavonoids, especially apigenin, which is crucial for its anxiolytic and sedative effects by interacting with GABA receptors. Terpenoids like α-bisabolol and its oxides, along with volatile oils containing chamazulene, are primarily responsible for its significant anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

### Is chamomile safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Chamomile has been traditionally used during pregnancy, but clinical safety data is limited. Most healthcare providers suggest caution or avoidance during the first trimester due to insufficient safety studies, though some evidence suggests it may be used in later pregnancy under medical guidance. Breastfeeding mothers should consult with a healthcare provider before use, as chamomile compounds pass into breast milk in small amounts.

### What is the most effective form of chamomile—tea, extract, or essential oil?

Chamomile tea is the most commonly studied and traditionally used form, delivering bioactive compounds through hot water infusion. Standardized extracts offer consistent apigenin and sesquiterpene lactone concentrations, making them preferable for clinical applications. Essential oils are not recommended for internal consumption due to concentration levels and lack of safety data; they are best reserved for aromatherapy or topical use.

### How much chamomile should I take daily, and when is the best time to consume it?

Traditional dosing typically ranges from 1–4 grams of dried chamomile flowers per day, usually prepared as a tea and consumed 2–3 times daily. For anxiety and sleep support, chamomile is most effective when taken 30 minutes to 2 hours before bedtime, though it can also be used during the day for digestive support. Standardized extracts typically provide 200–500 mg of active compounds per dose; always follow product-specific dosing instructions.

## Hermetica Products Containing Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)

- **[Hush](https://hermeticasuperfoods.com/products/hush-gummies)** — Botanical sleep complex with Reishi, L-Theanine & Chamomile.

> [hermeticasuperfoods.com](https://hermeticasuperfoods.com)

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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