
General Information
OTHER NAMES: German Chamomile (Chamomilla recutita) and Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), Sweet Chamomile, Matricaria recutita flowers
HISTORY: Used for medicinal purposes in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome for various maladies - esp. calming effects and skin problems
PROPERTIES: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, antispasmodic,
mild astringent, antibacterial, antiviral, analgesic, antipyretic, antifungal, carminative, diaphoretic
Considered Uses
Respiratory: Cold symptoms, asthma, Inflammation and irritation of the respiratory tract (inhalation), cough, hay fever, earache, sore throat, nasal Inflammation, croup, chest congestion (steam inhalation with extract)
Eyes: Conjunctivitis, Inflammation
Gastrointestinal: Mouth sores, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach and heartburn, diseases, infections of the oral cavity like toothaches, gum disease, and mouth sores. Chamomile may help with anogenital irritation (baths/soaks), ulcers, hemorrhoids (bath additive, poultice), flatulence, motion sickness, abdominal cramps, IBS, diverticulitis, Crohn's, gastritis (tea)
Genitourinary: UTI, menstrual discomfort (may be a menstruation inducer), Ano-genital Inflammation,
Musculoskeletal: Inflammation, muscle spasms (muscle relaxer), rheumatic pain, joint pain, gout, arthritis, back pain, possible help in osteoporosis
Skin: Irritation, Inflammation, diaper rash, eczema, dandruff, skin cleanser, and moisturizer may help repair aging skin, burns, and promote wound healing; poison ivy, chicken pox, bacterial infections, and bed sores, promote wound healing.
Mental Health: Anxiety, insomnia, relieve stress, depression, anorexia, nightmares, mood, ADHD. Believes that increasing the production of the "relaxation" neurotransmitter GABA, which helps reduce insomnia, the stress response, and decreases anxiety.
Glucose: Helps lower blood sugar
Cholesterol: Helps to reduce cholesterol
Immunity: Boosts the immune system; decreases allergic response.
Other: Deodorant, mastitis, mild diuretic, motion sickness, blood thinner, PMS
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SIDE EFFECTS: Allergic reaction/anaphylaxis, skin rash (dermatitis), vomiting (excessive use), excessive bleeding (excessive amounts), tiredness
CAUTIONS/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Do not use with blood thinners. It may interact with the following: antidepressants, antiepileptics, sleep medicine, benzos, aspirin, cyclosporine, and anti-inflammatories.
FORMS: Eye compress, aromatherapy, tea, oils, lotions, creams, tea (look for "pure" on the label; otherwise, it may be a blend)-may be used as mouthwash or gargle, toothpaste, capsules, elixirs, oils/infusions, poultice, dried flowers
Dosage
As directed on the product label.
Some clinical and consumer sources describe a wide range of herbal amounts and application methods, and many are not supported by strong evidence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
The German Commission E has evaluated chamomile and provides guidance on traditional preparation methods. Their specific dosing instructions are proprietary and cannot be reproduced here, but chamomile teas and extracts are widely available in pre‑measured, commercially prepared forms that follow these traditional approaches.
For detailed drug dosing and interaction information, refer to Epocrates.
Recommended Brands
No recommended brands at this time.
Traditional Use (General Information Only)
Chamomile has been used traditionally in many forms, including teas, topical creams, essential oils, and mouth rinses. Traditional practices describe these preparations for general wellness, skin comfort, digestive soothing, and relaxation. Modern products vary widely in strength and formulation.
These reflect traditional and consumer uses, not evidence‑based medical treatments. Product formulations vary, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions.
*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose or treat a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.
