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Chamomile (Matricaria recutita, Chamaemelum nobile)

German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) are the two most popular forms of chamomile used today. The two forms have the same mode of action, but German chamomile may be somewhat stronger. Chamomile is shown to help with a variety of health conditions including the common cold and anxiety problems.

 

Claimed Health Beliefs


Food Sources

None


Dose

In tea form: 1-4 cups per day
Liquid extract: 1-4 mL three times per day
Capsules: 400-1600 mg per day


Evidence for Health Benefits

Two studies involving cancer patients have shown that taking chamomile supplements along with massage therapy can decrease anxiety and improve quality of life of the patients.

One study looking at the effects of chamomile on the common cold showed that when chamomile extract is inhaled as a steam, the cold symptoms decreased.

There have been a few human studies showing that chamomile ointment can be used as a hydrocortisone cream for rashes.

One study has shown the effects of chamomile on sleeping. Chamomile caused drowsiness and relaxation in the human subjects, suggesting its use to treat insomnia.


Caution

More research is needed with chamomile supplementation because there have not been enough studies conducted to show conclusive results.

Individuals who are allergic to the Asteraceae (Compositae) plant family should not take chamomile. Examples of this plant family include aster, chrysanthemum, mugwort, ragweed, and ragwort.

Chamomile should not be taken if a person is going to be driving or operating heavy machinery.

Chamomile may also increase the risk of bleeding, so it should not be taken with other anticoagulant drugs or prior to surgery.

Pregnant women should avoid chamomile, as it may act as a uterine stimulant causing an abortion. It should also be avoided during breast feeding because not enough research has been done in this area.


References

1. Aetna InteliHealth (2003) Harvard Medical School’s Consumer Health Information. http://www.intelihealth.com/IH/ihtPrint/WSIHW000/8513/31402/346469.html?d=dmtContent&hide=t&k=base Accessed May 19, 2003.