Extracts, oils and teas made from chamomile are used for its soothing qualities as a sedative, mild analgesic and sleep medication. It also exhibited some anti-obesity activity. A mouth rinse with chamomile might relieve mouth sores caused by cancer treatments. Some research suggests that chamomile binds to benzodiazepine receptors. Chamomile has been used as a traditional medicine for thousands of years to calm anxiety and settle stomachs. Be aware, too, that not all supplements have been tested for safety and, due to the fact that dietary supplements are largely unregulated, the content of some products may differ from what is specified on the product label. [1,2] Chamomile has been used as a galactogogue;[3,4] however, no scientifically valid clinical trials support this use. Clinical efficacy of a 1% Matricaria chamomile L. mouthwash and 0.12% chlorhexidine for gingivitis control in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances. [13][14], The main constituents of chamomile flowers are polyphenol compounds,[8] including apigenin, quercetin, patuletin, and luteolin. This will help them manage your care and keep you safe. If you come across chamomile powder, look for a product made with pure chamomile flower leaves (where the oils are held), but not fillers like the plants stems or roots. chamomile, also spelled camomile, any of various daisylike plants of the aster family (Asteraceae). Omissions? People with a hormone-sensitive condition, such as endometriosis, fibroids, or cancers of the breast, uterus and ovaries should avoid using chamomile because it may act like estrogen in the body. It's also used topically to quell skin conditions and to help with wound healing. Study results suggest that lemongrass has a wide range of health benefits. Also, some studies look at products made of chamomile plus other herbs, so it is difficult to know chamomiles role from those studies. Guarana: Fat-Burning, Energy-Boosting Powerhouse or Dangerous Supplement? A 2010 study, for example, found that consuming chamomile tea for a month could reduce the pain of menstrual cramps. Chamomileis one of the oldest medicinal herbs known to mankind. Germans refer to chamomile as alles zutraut, meaning capable of anything. It has mild sedative effects, helps to reduce inflammation, relieve pain and promote restful sleep. Chamomile tea has long been used, as a traditional folk remedy, for a wide range of health issues. Chamomile is used for herbal remedies, beverages, and skin care products. Chamomile is part of the same plant family as ragweed and chrysanthemum, so people with allergies to these plants may reactsometimes severelywhen they use chamomile either internally or topically. A 2015 study on more than 1,000 patients with acute diarrhea found that a commmercial product containing a combination of myrrh, coffee charcoal, and chamomile flower extract is well tolerated, safe, and as effective as conventional therapies. If you have any condition that might be made worse by exposure to estrogen, including hormone-sensitive conditions like breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids, don't use it without consulting your healthcare provider. [3], Chamomile has historically been used in making beer and ale. J Vet Sci. If someone is taking any medications, they should ask their doctor about potential interactions with chamomile tea. Chamomile ( Matricaria recuit a) is a flowering plant in the daisy (Asteraceae) family. Inhibition of cancerous cells is believed to be due to chamomiles antioxidants called apigenin, which are bioactive constituents that appear to help fight skin, prostate, breast and ovarian cancers. That one study found that chamomile had no benefit for insomnia. It can be inhaled for respiratory tract inflammations or irritations; used in baths as irrigation for anogenital inflammation; and used internally for GI spasms and inflammatory diseases, and applied topically as an analgesic and spasmolytic. There is insufficient scientific evidence that consuming chamomile in foods or beverages has any beneficial effects on health. If you suffer from hay fever, frequent hives or dermatitis, its also a good idea to stay away from chamomile products or at least to talk to your doctor before using it on your own. Verywell Health articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and healthcare professionals. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Heres our process. The NCCIH Clearinghouse provides information onNCCIHand complementary and integrative health approaches, including publications and searches of Federal databases of scientific and medical literature. [4][5], The word chamomile is derived via the French and Latin, from the Greek , khamaimlon, 'earth apple', from , khamai, 'on the ground', and , mlon, 'apple'. Chamomile flowers are used alone or in combination with other anti-inflammatory foods to reduce pain, congestion, swelling and redness. Chamomile tea is also a good choice when youre sick and want tobeat a cold, the flu or sinus infection. Interestingly, despite the fact that it approved the use of chamomile flower preparations for a host of other purposesincluding gastrointestinal spasms and bacterial skin diseasesin 1984, Commission E, Germany's counterpart to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, did not grant approval for it as a sleep aid due to the lack of published research in this area. Effect of German chamomile oil application on alleviating atopic dermatitis-like immune alterations in mice. Due to concerns about bleeding, chamomile shouldn't be used two weeks before or after surgery. Chamomileis one of the oldest medicinal herbs known to mankind. This was likely due to the herbs antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities. Pourabbas R, Delazar A, Chitsaz MT. The New Healing Herbs: The Classic Guide to Nature's Best Medicines PLANTS Profile: Anthemis tinctoria L. (golden chamomile), https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Chamomile&oldid=1133455109, Articles containing Ancient Greek (to 1453)-language text, Articles lacking reliable references from December 2015, Wikipedia articles incorporating a citation from the 1911 Encyclopaedia Britannica with Wikisource reference, Wikipedia articles incorporating a citation from the Encyclopedia Americana with a Wikisource reference, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 13 January 2023, at 22:04. Patzelt-Wenczler R, Ponce-Poschl E. Proof ofefficacyof Kamillosan(R) cream in atopic eczema. Topical applications of chamomile have been shown to be moderately effective in the treatment of eczema. Our basic emotions andhormonal balanceare in response to the most basic smell. The limbic system evaluates the sensory stimuli, registering pleasure, pain, danger or safety; this then directs our emotional response, such as feelings of fear, anger and attraction. Native to Europe and Western Asia, it's now found around the world. Chamomile is a common flavoring agent in foods and beverages, and other products such as mouthwash, soaps, and cosmetics. Rare cases of anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic reaction) have occurred in people who consumed or came into contact with chamomile products. [1,2] Chamomile has been used as a galactogogue;[3,4] however, no scientifically valid clinical trials support this use. Study in humans confirms link between Parkinson's and gut bacteria imbalance, Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Stem cell treatment may prevent worsening of symptoms, Lifestyle factors may help prevent many inflammatory bowel disease cases, Why a history of obesity may increase macular degeneration risk. Segal R, Pilote L. Research warfarin interaction with Matricaria chamomilla. Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). Matić, I. It's fairly easy to grow and doesn't need much water or fertilizer. Today, chamomile is promoted for sleeplessness, anxiety, and gastrointestinal conditions such as upset stomach, gas, and diarrhea. Med. There are two different chamomile plants: German chamomile and Roman chamomile. There is insufficient scientific evidence that consuming chamomile in foods or beverages has any beneficial effects on health. Chamomile, (Matricaria recutita) sometimes also referred to as German chamomile, is an herb that is native to Europe, Africa, and Asia, and is now also grown in North America. Some research has documented that it may be as effective as hydrocortisone cream for eczema. How to use chamomile in a sentence. How Viagra became a new 'tool' for young men, The amazing story of hepatitis C, from discovery to cure, Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction, Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, ability of chamomile tea to reduce anxiety, they should also avoid chamomile products, Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine, http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168160507005818?via%3Dihub, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3318194, http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S108707929990093X, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/286965003_Chamomile_tea_for_relief_of_primary_dysmenorrhea, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15537303, http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jf8014365, http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.4807/full, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40618-014-0170-x, https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/bpb/28/5/28_5_808/_article, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995283/, http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/009167498990420X, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11130-012-0277-1. Side effects are uncommon and may include nausea, dizziness, and allergic reactions. In one partially double-blind trial carried out as a half-side comparison, a commercial chamomile cream showed a mild superiority towards a low-dose .5 percent hydrocortisone and a marginal difference compared to the placebo. However, until more information is available, it is not recommended to use these substances concurrently. Anaphylactic reaction after the ingestion of chamomile tea: A study of cross-reactivity with other composite pollens [Abstract]. It typically has a mild floral taste with hints of apple. Mix ingredients until smooth and store in 8-ounce plastic bottle. While anyone can develop osteoporosis, it is most common among post-menopausal women. Cathy Wong is a nutritionist and wellness expert. What is chamomile tea? (2008, Febraury 10). LiverTox: clinical and research information on drug-induced liver injury. Meredith Bull, ND, is a licensed naturopathic doctor with a private practice in Los Angeles. Today, chamomile is widely available and used in various forms, usually as a tea, essential oil, dry powder or tincture. [1,2] Chamomile has been used as a galactogogue;[3,4] however, no scientifically valid clinical trials support this use. Investigation effect of oral chamomilla on sleep quality in elderly people in Isfahan: A randomized control trial. Last medically reviewed on January 6, 2020, Lemongrass is an herb that people can use to make a nutritious tea. Hypnotic activities of chamomile and passiflora extracts in sleep-disturbed rats. Viola H, et al. Two of the species, Matricaria recutita and Anthemis nobilis, are commonly used to make herbal infusions for beverages. But this benefit is not proven yet. Because chamomile benefits include both fighting infections and reducing mucus congestion, its added to many nasal sprays. It also has antimicrobial properties and helps to fight infections. Both types boast fragrant, daisy-like flowers with white petals surrounding a yellow center. Bethesda, MD: National Library of Medicine (US); 2019. The information in our articles is NOT intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. Chamomile tea, used as a tonic and an antiseptic and in many herbal remedies, is made from English, or Roman, chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) or German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla). Amsterdam JD, Li Y, Soeller I, et al. You can also diffuse chamomile essential oil at home, use the oil to soothe skin conditions. 2010 Mar; 11(1): 3541. The main antioxidant components extracted from chamomile flowers are the terpenoid group of antioxidants, including chamazulene and acetylene derivatives. Wounds treated by applying a chamomile compress for an hour once a day healed five to six days faster than those treated with hydrocortisone once a day. [1,2] Chamomile has been used as a galactogogue;[3,4] however, no scientifically valid clinical trials support this use. Chamomile tea has been used in folk medicine for thousands of years, often with encouraging results. Chamomile is available in many forms, including as tea, extract, capsule, powder and essential oil. This is why practitioners use chamomile to effectively relieve symptoms of chronic anxiety and stress, including hysteria, nightmares, insomnia and various digestive problems. The Clearinghouse does not provide medical advice, treatment recommendations, or referrals to practitioners. Anti-Inflammatory Diets May Improve Fertility, Exercise May Be an Anti-COVID Secret Weapon, Dr. Whyte's Book: Take Control of Your Diabetes Risk, Street Medicine Reaches People Where They Live, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox. Singh, Ompal, et al. (2008, August 6). Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) may provide antidepressant activity in anxious, depressed humans: an exploratory study. When researchers compared their diaries to those who took a placebo, they found no significant difference in how fast patients fell asleep or how much sleep they got. Chamomile extract can help shorten the course of diarrhea and colic in children as well as relieve symptoms associated with the conditions like pain and anxiety. Do a patch test first on a small part of your skin to make sure you dont have any negative reactions to the plants oils before using in other applications. Fungi such as Albugo tragopogonis (white rust), Cylindrosporium matricariae, Erysiphe cichoracearum (powdery mildew), and Sphaerotheca macularis (powdery mildew) are known pathogens of the chamomile plant. Chamomile is known as an herb of purification and protection, and can be used in incenses for sleep and meditation. Chamomile or camomile is the common name for several daisy-like plants of the family Asteraceae. Because chamomiles oils arent very water-soluble, tea wont have as strong of an effect as chamomile essential oil uses, powders or tinctures, but it can still help you to kick back and soothe your stomach after a long day. Chamomile was described in ancient medical writings and was an important medicinal herb in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. This Dr. Axe content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure factually accurate information. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomillaL.): An overview. We include products we think are useful for our readers. Fennel tea, Black tea is a popular beverage worldwide. Chamomile (American English) or camomile (British English; see spelling differences) (/kmmal, -mil/ KAM--myle or KAM--meel[1][2]) is the common name for several daisy-like plants of the family Asteraceae. Yerba mat is made from the leaves of Ilex paraguariensis, a type of South American holy. Corrections? Chamomile benefits our health by soothing the body, relieving mild pain, fighting skin irritations and helping to ease anxiety. 2017; 6: 53. Inflammation is an immune system reaction to fight infection. Chamomile is believed to be helpful in reducing smooth muscle spasms associated with various gastrointestinal inflammatory disorders like inflammatory bowel disease, though research is needed to confirm that use. Rafraf, M., Zemestani, M., & Asghari-Jafarabadi, M. (2015, February). 12811282, 2006. Inhaling chamomile vapors using chamomile oilis often recommended as a natural remedy for depressionand general anxiety, which is one reason why chamomile oil is a popular ingredient in many candles, aromatherapy products and bath-soaking treatments. One cup of chamomile tea has two calories, two milligrams of sodium and no cholesterol. Effectiveness of. [Databasesubscription]. What are the health benefits of yerba mat tea? Native to Europe and Western Asia, it's now found around the world. If you're a gambler, wash your hands in chamomile tea to It also has antimicrobial properties and helps to fight infections. There are two types of common chamomile: German and Roman. Chamomile is used for herbal remedies, beverages, and skin care products. Also note that the safety of supplements inpregnant women, nursing mothers, children, and those with medical conditions or who are taking medications have not been established. Anecdotal evidence and some studies suggest that inhaling steam with chamomile extract can relieve some of the symptoms of the common cold. Benzodiazepines are prescription drugs that can reduce anxiety and induce sleep. As an effective alternative medicine with almost no known negative side effects, chamomile has been used for nearly 5,000 years in standardized tea, herbal extract and cosmetic forms to promote tranquility, vitality, a youthful appearance and longevity. [10] Chamomile lawns are also used in sunny areas with light traffic. In one review of the current evidence, 10 of 12 cardiovascular patients are quoted as having fallen asleep shortly after consuming chamomile tea. Read our, The 7 Best Teas to Soothe a Sore Throat, According to a Dietitian, 14 Natural Sleep Remedies to Beat Insomnia, Proof ofefficacyof Kamillosan(R) cream in atopic eczema, Efficacy and safety of a herbal medicinal product containing myrrh, chamomile and coffee charcoal for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders: a non-interventional study, A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of oral Matricaria recutita (chamomile) extract therapy for generalized anxiety disorde, Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) may provide antidepressant activity in anxious, depressed humans: an exploratory study, Effects ofan interventionwith drinking chamomile tea on sleep quality and depression insleep disturbedpostnatal women: a randomized controlled trial, Using chamomile solution or a 1% topical hydrocortisone ointment in the management of peristomal skin lesions in colostomy patients: results of a controlled clinical study, Evaluation of the activity on the mouse CNS of several plant extracts and a combination of them, Anti-Helicobacter pylori activity in vitro of chamomile flowers, coneflower herbs, peppermint leaves and thyme herbs a preliminary report, Clinical efficacy of a 1% Matricaria chamomile L. mouthwash and 0.12% chlorhexidine for gingivitis control in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances, Two US practitioners' experience of using essential oils for wound care. Consequently, it is safest to start with a low dosage and work up to larger doses slowly. This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by our trained editorial staff. Chamomile tea, used as a tonic and an antiseptic and in many herbal remedies, is made from English, or Roman, chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) or German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla). Chamomile tea, used as a tonic and an antiseptic and in many herbal remedies, is made from English, or Roman, chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) or German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla). Chamomile has been used medicinally for thousands of years and was known by ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian cultures. Updates? What is it? If youre going to use chamomile essential oil, remember that its meant to use topically on the skin, but not to ingest. Bethesda, MD: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; 2017. This loss increases the risk of broken bones and stooped posture. When used as a medicinal product, chamomile may produce both desired and unwanted effects on the body. 2015 Feb;38(2):163-70. Glowania, H. J., Raulin, C., & Swoboda, M. (1987, September 1). Native to Europe and Western Asia, it's now found around the world. Germans have used chamomile to resolve digestive issues since at least the first century, and records show that Egyptians worshipped the plant and dedicated festivals to its healing properties. Considered to be one of the most ancient and versatile medicinal herbs known to mankind, dried chamomile flowers have numerous, widespread health implications thanks to their high levels of disease-fighting antioxidants like terpenoids and flavonoids. A number of other species' common names include the word chamomile. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. Chamomile plants are a member of the Asteraceae/Compositae family. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we: We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness. Suffering from breakouts or dry, irritated, aged, red skin? It is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care provider(s). Chamomile is known as an herb of purification and protection, and can be used in incenses for sleep and meditation. Studies show that substances in chamomile can kill viruses and bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, the cause of staph infections, reduce inflammation, and prevent and treat the growth of ulcers. Hartman D, Coetzee JC. [6][7] First used in the 13th century, the spelling chamomile corresponds to the Latin chamomilla and the Greek chamaimelon. You may also make an oral rinse with 10 to 15 drops of German chamomile liquid extract (aka tincture) in 100 milliliters of warm water. Still, more studies are needed. We link primary sources including studies, scientific references, and statistics within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. For now, however, it remains a supplement and not a medication. Chamomile is an herb that comes from the daisy-like flowers of the Asteraceae plant family. One study published in The Lancet assessed the flavonoid intake of 805 men aged 6584 years and found that higher flavonoid intake from foods and herbs was significantly inversely associated with mortality from coronary heart disease. Chamomile. One preliminary study that compared chamomile and corticosteroids for treating ulcers in test tubes and animals concluded that chamomile promotes faster wound healing: Animals treated with chamomile exhibited complete wound healing nine days before animals treated with corticosteroids. This daisy-like herb may help ease anxiety and promote sleep. Chamomile promotes smooth, healthy skin and relieves irritations thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. What Is Complementary, Alternative, or Integrative Health? How to use chamomile in a sentence. Erythritol is now one of the most popular natural zero-calorie sweeteners available. Cyclosporine and herbal supplement interactions. 1981 Sep-Oct;51(5):297-310. Her work is regularly featured in media such as First For Women, Woman's World, and Natural Health. The following groups should avoid chamomile unless advised otherwise by a doctor: It is also not safe to use chamomile as a substitute for proven medical treatments. Plants including the common name chamomile, of the family Asteraceae, are: Chamomile may be used as a flavoring agent in foods and beverages, mouthwash, soaps, or cosmetics. To make tea, steep one heaping teaspoon of chamomile flowers in two-thirds of a cup of boiling water for five to 10 minutes before straining. Women in the study also reported less anxiety and distress associated with period pain. If you're a gambler, wash your hands in chamomile tea to Duplication is encouraged. Chamomile (Matricaria recuita) is a flowering plant in the daisy (Asteraceae) family. Two of the species, Matricaria recutita and Anthemis nobilis, are commonly used to make herbal infusions for beverages. Chamomiles vital antioxidants are found in the plants potent oils and are the main contributors to its natural healing properties. Again, some studies have found that chamomile tea can lower blood sugar in people with diabetes. Hungarian chamomile Wild chamomile Scented mayweed Jump to: For Patients & Caregivers For Healthcare Professionals For Patients & Caregivers Tell your healthcare providers about any dietary supplements youre taking, such as herbs, vitamins, minerals, and natural or home remedies. Chamomile or camomile is the common name for several daisy-like plants of the family Asteraceae. Phytother Res. Hungarian chamomile Wild chamomile Scented mayweed Jump to: For Patients & Caregivers For Healthcare Professionals For Patients & Caregivers Tell your healthcare providers about any dietary supplements youre taking, such as herbs, vitamins, minerals, and natural or home remedies. The generic name,Matricaria, comes from the Latinmatrix, meaning womb, because chamomile was used historically to treat disorders of the female reproductive system. Few clinical trials have tested this, however. It also helped promote bone density, but the studys authors caution that further research is needed to prove this apparent benefit. Chamomile makes you feel calm and at ease. For most people, chamomile tea is safe to try as a supplement to other treatments, but it should not replace mainstream medical treatments when people have serious illnesses. All rights reserved. Chamomile is used topically in skin and mucous membrane inflammations and skin diseases. Extracts, oils and teas made from chamomile are used for its soothing qualities as a sedative, mild analgesic and sleep medication. Its believed that the chamomile tea (and possibly the lotion) acted synergistically with the warfarin to cause bleeding. By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the WebMD, Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, 6 Minutes of Exercise May Protect Brain From Alzheimer's, 'Disturbing' Rate of Adverse Events During Hospital Stays. Little is known about whether its safe to use chamomile during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.. If you want to use chamomile on your skin, in the bath or combined with other products you already have, look for chamomile extracts that contain about 50 percent alcohol and a standardized extract of 1.2 percent of apigenin (which is one of the most effective bioactive agents). McGill Office for Science and Society. It can be inhaled for respiratory tract inflammations or irritations; used in baths as irrigation for anogenital inflammation; and used internally for GI spasms and inflammatory diseases, and applied topically as an analgesic and spasmolytic. Another study showed that chamomile extract at a dose of 300 milligrams caused a significant shortening in how long it took rats to fall asleep, while other research in mice demonstrated that chamomile can significantly prolong the sleeping time induced by sleep-inducing drugs like barbiturates. Some research suggests that chamomile could help with other conditions, like diarrhea in children, hemorrhoids, anxiety, and insomnia. Instead, try this Homemade Body Wash recipe. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of oral Matricaria recutita (chamomile) extract therapy for generalized anxiety disorder.