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Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
A gentle, well-tolerated calming herb with mixed evidence for generalized anxiety and a modest signal for better sleep quality.
What the evidence says
Most Chamomile studies are mechanism or observational rather than RCTs that measure a clinical effect — keep findings provisional.
Most evidence is from high-quality meta-analyses and randomised trials published 2002–2026 with a typical study size of 179 participants.
Based on 58 studies · 6 meta-analyses · 45 RCTs · 3,166 total participants
Confidence
High confidenceBy outcome
5 more outcomes with fewer studies not shown.
Multiple meta-analyses and a landmark RCT support modest sleep and anxiety benefits, but results are mixed — a network meta-analysis found chamomile no better than placebo for anxiety, and trials are small.
52 rigorous studies
46 randomized trials · 3 meta-analyses · 6 systematic reviews
Our evidence rating for Chamomile is accountable to this entire body of rigorous research indexed in PubMed — not a hand-picked subset.
PubMed · as of Jul 2026
12 trials ongoing or recruiting · 34 completed on ClinicalTrials.gov
4 of the completed trials have posted results
Registered trials show research momentum for Chamomile, not proof of effect — a registration is a plan, and posted results are sponsor-reported, not peer-reviewed. They are never counted toward the evidence rating above.
Browse these trials on ClinicalTrials.govClinicalTrials.gov · as of Sep 2026
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla, German chamomile) is a daisy-family herb used for centuries as a calming tea. Its flavonoid apigenin binds benzodiazepine/GABA-A receptor sites, which may underlie mild anxiolytic and sedative effects.
The evidence for anxiety is mixed: an early placebo-controlled RCT of a standardized oral extract reduced generalized-anxiety symptoms, but a larger network meta-analysis found chamomile no better than placebo, and current nutraceutical guidelines do not recommend it for GAD.
Meta-analytic evidence is somewhat stronger for modest improvements in subjective sleep quality. Effects are gentle and the herb is well tolerated; the main caution is allergy in people sensitive to ragweed and related Asteraceae plants.
The flavonoid apigenin binds benzodiazepine/GABA-A receptor sites, producing mild anxiolytic and sedative effects.
May modestly influence serotonin and noradrenaline signaling relevant to mood and anxiety.
Chamomile flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and smooth-muscle relaxing actions (relevant to GI and menstrual comfort).
Avoid — cross-reactive allergy risk.
Culinary tea amounts are generally considered fine; avoid concentrated extracts without medical advice.
Contains coumarins; may add to bleeding risk. Monitor INR and watch for bleeding.
May add to sedation.
May modestly affect drug metabolism at high intakes.
Tip: Take in the evening; avoid with other sedatives
Tip: Avoid if allergic to Asteraceae plants
Chamomile has an evidence score of 5.2/10 — moderate evidence based on 53 indexed studies, including 5 meta-analyses. A gentle, well-tolerated calming herb with mixed evidence for generalized anxiety and a modest signal for better sleep quality. Representative study: PMID 31006899.
The commonly studied dose of Chamomile is 220-1500mg standardized extract daily (often 1100mg in GAD trials), or 1-4 cups of tea. Individual needs vary — start at the lower end of the range and adjust based on how you respond.
The best time to take Chamomile is in the evening. Taking it with food is preferred. Often taken in the evening for relaxation and sleep; for anxiety it can be split through the day.
Chamomile is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for most healthy adults at recommended doses. Reported side effects are uncommon and include drowsiness, allergic reaction. Use caution if any of these apply to you: Allergy to ragweed, daisies, marigold, or chrysanthemum (Asteraceae family).
Ashwagandha
Likely helpsReduces cortisol and anxiety while improving sleep quality and physical recovery in stressed adults.
Curcumin
Likely helpsTurmeric's active compound that modulates NF-kB inflammatory pathways — supports mood, joint health, and post-exercise recovery.
Saffron
Likely helpsClinically matched low-dose SSRIs for mild-to-moderate depression — also reduces anxiety and PMS symptoms.
Lavender
Mostly mechanism / observationalAromatic botanical with well-documented anxiolytic, sleep-promoting, and mood-supporting effects; oral Silexan preparation shows efficacy comparable to low-dose benzodiazepines.
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Reviewed by Dr. Baher Al Hakim · Last reviewed June 2026 · evidence from 58 studies · how we score · editorial policy
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or medication.