Chamomile benefits & side effects

About chamomile

Chamomile has a long history for its traditional uses! It dates back to the ancient Egyptians and Romans, who used its dried flowers and essential oil as a medicinal herb. 

The two widely used varieties with medicinal benefits are the German chamomile known as Matricaria chamomilla L. and the Roman chamomile or Chamaemelum nobile L. Despite its humble appearance, it is considered one of the most useful medicinal herbs. 

Chamomile tea benefits

Chamomile contains ingredients such as, flavonoids, terpenoids, coumarins, which are responsible for its medicinal applications.  Its use is mostly indicated for the treatment of mild skin irritation, anxiety, inflammation and as a sedative. 

In fact, advances in science have increased our knowledge of its therapeutic benefits, making chamomile an herb of significant importance [1].

In this article we will focus on the benefits of chamomile for our health and well-being!!!

It is considered safe to consume and an important ingredient in many traditional, homeopathic and pharmaceutical preparations.

1. Improves sleep

One of the constituents of chamomile is apigenin, which is an antioxidant that binds to certain receptors in the brain and can promote sleepiness.

The results of a study in postpartum women who consumed chamomile tea for two weeks showed better sleep quality compared to those who did not drink chamomile tea. 

Furthermore, another study found that in a group that consumed 270 mg of chamomile extract twice a day for 28 days, one out of three did not wake up during the night and their bedtime was 15 minutes earlier than the group that did not consume chamomile tea. 

Further research is needed, however, consuming a chamomile drink before bedtime is worth a try if you have trouble sleeping [2].

2. Reduces Inflammation

Chamomile tea contains chemical compounds that may help reduce inflammation. This may have beneficial effects in reducing hemorrhoids, symptoms in the gastrointestinal system, arthritis, autoimmune conditions, and even depression.

In general, inflammation represents the immune system’s response against infections. However, long-term inflammation can damage healthy cells, increasing the risk of autoimmune and degenerative diseases.

3. Helps in Diabetes Mellitus

Research has shown that chamomile tea can reduce blood sugar levels in people with Diabetes Mellitus. It can improve the glycemic profile as well as reduce oxidative stress levels resulting in reduced complications associated with Diabetes. 

Chamomile is distinguished for its anti-inflammatory effect and can prevent damage to pancreatic cells, which occurs when sugar levels are chronically elevated. 

In a study of sixty-four diabetic people, the group that consumed chamomile tea daily with meals for eight weeks had significantly lower average blood sugar levels than those who consumed water. However, the research results do not suggest chamomile as a drug substitute for the treatment of diabetes but may be useful as a supplement to existing treatments [2].

4. Improves common cold treatment

Studies have shown that inhaling a steam of chamomile extract or a chamomile tea with honey and lemon can help reduce some symptoms of the common cold, such as headache, nasal congestion, and even sore throat [3].

5. Relief in stomach ulcer

The effect of chamomile on stomach ulcers has been shown to improve symptoms. Chamomile inhibits Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium responsible for the occurrence of ulcers. Also, thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects, it can help with smooth muscle spasms caused by gastrointestinal conditions [3].

6. Cardiovascular Protection

Chamomile tea is a rich source of flavonoid antioxidants, which may play a role in improving heart health. Researchers have examined the ability of flavonoids to lower blood pressure and cholesterol, which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease. 

It is no coincidence that traditionally chamomile has been used as a natural sedative for tachycardia, and many claim it lowers blood pressure.

In a study of 64 diabetic patients, it was observed that those who consumed chamomile tea with meals showed significant improvement in total cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL cholesterol (known as “bad” cholesterol) levels, compared to those who did not drink the tea. However, further research is necessary to confirm its role in heart health [2].

7. Oral Health

Due to the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits of chamomile, oral hygiene products containing chamomile have shown to significantly reduce gingivitis and plaque and it is often found in gels for stomatitis [3]. 

Examples of oral hygiene products containing chamomile:

• Intermed Chlorhexil spray 0.20%,
• Weleda Plant ToothGel 75 ml 
• Specchiasol Toothpaste Veradent sensitive 100 ml 
• Elgydium Baby Gel  Organic Toothpaste Fluoride-free 30 ml 
• Epsilon Health Oramil 30 ml 

8. Skin Conditions and Chamomile

Research data suggests that products containing chamomile can help treat various skin problems, such as acne, rebuilding sensitive skin, and reducing skin dehydration. This is due to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and soothing benefits.

Cosmetic products with chamomile, such as, lotions, creams, and soaps, have been reported to provide hydration and may be useful in reducing skin inflammation [4]. 

Therefore, the use of chamomile is being extended to various skin care products such as:

• Shampoo with chamomile: Shampoos containing chamomile can provide relief to the scalp and promote hair health  ( Apivita Shampoo Chamomile & Honey).

• Baby Wipes and Baby Products: Specially formulated baby wipes and infant care products containing chamomile can be gentle on babies’ sensitive skin (Baby wipes Septona Calm n’ Care  chamomie ).

• Chamomile Intim Area Washes: products for vaginal washes with chamomile can provide relief from itching and irritation and have antimicrobial activity for the Intim area (Intermed Eva Intima Chamomile Douche).

• Products for sensitive skin: Creams, lotions, eye and eyelid cleansing wipes and soaps for sensitive skin that contain chamomile can help reduce irritation, moisturize and maintain healthy skin.

In any case, it is important to carry out a small test on a small area (e.g. inside the wrist) before applying to a larger area in order to check for possible adverse reactions, especially on sensitive skin.

9. Improves Symptoms of Menstrual Flow 

In 2019, researchers concluded that chamomile has anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, sedative, and anti-anxiety benefits that may help relieve the anxiety and discomfort associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

This suggests that its use may be beneficial for women experiencing PMS symptoms, including mood swings, anxiety, and abdominal pain. However, the advice of a healthcare professional should always be asked for optimal management of PMS symptoms [4].

10. Relieves constipation

Chamomile can help regulate contractions in the digestive system, reduce heartburn and have a beneficial effect on bowel problems such as constipation. In recent small studies, participants observed relief with the consumption of chamomile extract. [5]. In general, it reduces inflammation and cramping in the intestine, thus helping to improve its motility.

11. Reduction of urinary tract infection symptoms

Urinary tract infections are considered one of the most common types of bacterial infections worldwide. Chamomile tea is used as a healing herb in several conditions, including urinary tract infection symptoms (UTIs). 

It has been found to exhibit a mild diuretic effect and provides compounds with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits. With these characteristics, it is claimed that it can help to relapse inflammation, inhibit bacterial growth, and flush the sensitive area. [6]

12. Soothes gastroenteritis

The main symptoms of gastroenteritis are vomiting and diarrhea. Often, chamomile is used to relax the digestive muscles and relieve gastrointestinal problems such as indigestion, nausea, gas, etc. 

Research on animal models showed that chamomile extract helped prevent diarrhea. [7].

Can I drink chamomile every day?

It is considered safe to drink 1-2 cups of chamomile tea daily. Research has shown that it is perfectly acceptable to consume up to five cups of chamomile tea daily [3].

How long do we boil the chamomile?

• Boil 3-5 minutes.
• Alternatively, leave it covered in water that has already boiled for 10-15 minutes.

Chamomile side effects

Consumption of chamomile is considered safe when used for short periods of time. 

Although not all side effects are known, discontinue its use and contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following signs of an allergic reaction after consuming it or applying it to the skin: 

• itching
• difficulty breathing
• swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat;
• redness and rash

Common side effects may include mild skin eczema, scaling, or itching.

Consult your doctor if you want to consume chamomile simultaneously with your treatment for [8]:

• rapid onset of sleep
• treating pains
• anxiety, depression
• asthma, allergies
• epilepsy
• hypertension, cardiovascular, high cholesterol
• heartburn or GERD
• migraine
• erectile dysfunction
• psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis
• psychiatric disorder
• diabetes
• any infection
• autoimmune diseases

Why is chamomile forbidden to babies?

Chamomile tea is considered safe but is not recommended for babies under 6 months of age, as some babies may be allergic to it. In addition, it may interact with certain medications that an infant may be taking [9]. 

You can give them chamomile tea when you introduce other liquids into their diet, such as juice and water, i.e., after 6 months of age.

Furthermore, you should choose tea bags for your baby instead of using chamomile flowers and leaves, as the latter can be infected with Clostridium botulinum bacteria and harm the baby.

When making the drink, boil water, steep the tea bag for 10 minutes (or as directed) and allow it to cool to room temperature. Good options include:

1. Frezyderm Organic Chamomile 15 sachets 
2. Milupa Chamomile tea 

It is important to talk to your doctor before trying any herbal medicine on your baby.

Conclusion

Chamomile is rich in a variety of valuable antioxidants and can have a variety of health and skincare benefits. If you want to explore its potential benefits, it is worth including it in your daily routine either as a cosmetic product or as part of your diet.