Chamomile Powder (Matricaria chamomilla)(flower)
Also known as: Matricaria chamomilla L., Matricaria recutita, German chamomile, chamomile flower powder, Matricaria chamomilla
Overview
Chamomile powder is derived from the dried flowers of Matricaria chamomilla, a plant widely used in traditional medicine. It contains bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and coumarins, contributing to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, mild sedative, and anxiolytic properties. Commonly used for its calming effects, chamomile is often used to improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety, alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort, and manage skin conditions such as dermatitis. Clinical research on chamomile is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews/meta-analyses available, especially regarding its effects on sleep and cancer-related complications. Evidence quality varies by indication, with stronger support for sleep improvement and some supportive but less conclusive data for cancer-related symptom management and safety during pregnancy. Chamomile is available in various forms, including tea, powder, capsules, and topical creams.
Benefits
Chamomile has several evidence-based benefits. A systematic review and meta-analysis indicates that chamomile significantly improves sleep quality, particularly by reducing awakenings, although it may not increase total sleep duration. Studies suggest chamomile may reduce the severity and delay the onset of radiotherapy-induced dermatitis in cancer patients, although results are sometimes not statistically significant. Chamomile has also demonstrated potential to reduce cortisol awakening response and psychosocial stress factors, suggesting anxiolytic effects, though more robust clinical data are needed. Systematic reviews suggest chamomile is generally safe during pregnancy and postpartum when used appropriately, but some studies note a slightly increased risk of miscarriage or preterm labor with general herbal use, warranting cautious use.
How it works
Chamomile's mechanism of action involves several biological pathways. Its flavonoids, such as apigenin, bind to GABA_A receptors in the central nervous system, producing mild sedative and anxiolytic effects. The phenolic compounds in chamomile inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress pathways, which may underlie its skin-protective effects. Oral chamomile extracts are absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, with bioavailability depending on the preparation form, such as tea, powder, or extract.
Side effects
Chamomile is generally well-tolerated with a low incidence of adverse effects. Common side effects include mild gastrointestinal discomfort and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, especially those allergic to ragweed or daisies. Uncommon side effects include skin irritation with topical use. Rare side effects include anaphylaxis in highly sensitive individuals. Chamomile may interact with anticoagulants due to its coumarin content and with sedatives, potentially enhancing their effects. Contraindications include allergy to Asteraceae family plants. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should use chamomile under medical supervision due to limited safety data.
Dosage
Dosage varies by preparation and intended use. Clinical trials often use 220-1100 mg of chamomile extract daily for sleep or a topical 2.5% infusion for dermatitis. For sleep, a dosage of 400-1100 mg of chamomile extract daily is often used, taken 30-60 minutes before bedtime. For skin conditions, topical application 2-3 times daily is recommended. The maximum safe dose is not well established, but doses up to 1100 mg/day orally are generally safe in short-term use. Chamomile powder can be used as a tea infusion or encapsulated extract, while topical creams or compresses are used for skin applications. Bioavailability is enhanced by aqueous extraction (tea) or standardized extracts.
FAQs
Is chamomile effective for insomnia?
Yes, evidence supports improvement in sleep quality and reduction in awakenings, though it may not significantly increase total sleep time. Clinical trials often use chamomile extract to improve sleep quality.
Can chamomile be used during pregnancy?
Generally considered safe but should be used cautiously and under medical advice due to some associations with adverse pregnancy outcomes. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider.
How long does it take to see benefits?
Sleep improvements may be noticed within days to weeks; skin benefits may require consistent use over weeks. Individual responses can vary based on dosage and form of chamomile.
Are there allergic risks?
Yes, especially in individuals allergic to related plants like ragweed. Discontinue use if allergic reactions occur and consult a healthcare professional.
Does chamomile interact with medications?
Potentially with blood thinners and sedatives; consult healthcare providers before use, especially if taking other medications. Monitor for any adverse effects.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39106912/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of multiple RCTs found that chamomile improved sleep quality by reducing awakenings in adults with sleep issues. However, it did not show a significant effect on total sleep duration, suggesting it primarily aids in sleep maintenance rather than increasing overall sleep time.
- https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/19476337.2025.2504527 – This systematic review examined the safety of chamomile use during pregnancy and the postpartum period. It concluded that while chamomile is generally safe, there is some association with miscarriage and preterm labor when considering general herbal use, advising caution and medical supervision.
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/15347354231164600 – This systematic review of 15 RCTs on cancer patients found that chamomile reduced the severity and delayed the onset of radiotherapy-induced dermatitis. The statistical significance of these findings varied across studies, and the review noted the variability in chamomile preparations used.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2075-1729/12/4/479 – This study investigated the effects of chamomile on cortisol awakening response and psychosocial stress factors. The results suggested that chamomile has anxiolytic effects by reducing cortisol levels and improving stress-related outcomes, indicating its potential in managing stress and anxiety.
- https://www.cureus.com/articles/341069-the-efficacy-and-safety-of-using-chamomile-products-during-pregnancy-and-the-postpartum-period.pdf – This review article discusses the efficacy and safety of using chamomile products during pregnancy and the postpartum period. It highlights that while chamomile is generally considered safe, caution should be exercised due to potential associations with adverse pregnancy outcomes, emphasizing the need for medical advice.