Matricaria chamomilla · Flower
Chamomile
Traditional + some evidenceWith its apple-scented, daisy-like flowers, chamomile has been a bedtime tea in European homes for generations. Even Peter Rabbit's mother reached for it.
Traditionally used for
- Traditionally used as a calming evening tea
- Used in European folk practice for digestive comfort
- Flower rinses used for skin
What research says
NCCIH notes that chamomile has been studied for sleep and anxiety, but the research is limited and not conclusive.
How people use it
- Steep 1–2 tsp dried flowers 5 minutes, covered
- Blend with lemon balm or lavender
- Cooled tea as a gentle compress
Safety and interactions
- People allergic to ragweed, daisies or related plants may react
- May interact with cyclosporine and warfarin
- Ask your doctor before use in pregnancy
Always talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using chamomile as a supplement, especially with prescription medicine, in pregnancy or before surgery.
Sources
Reviewed October 25, 2026. Evidence tier: Traditional + some evidence: Long traditional use; human research is limited, small or mixed. How we rank evidence.