German Chamomile
- Latin
- Matricaria recutita
German chamomile is commonly used as a tea and supplement for anxiety, sleep, digestion, and respiratory complaints. Its food-level use is generally well tolerated, but clinical evidence is limited and allergy or medication interactions matter with concentrated products.
Also Known As
Latin: Matricaria recutita
Traditional Context
German chamomile is not a classical Traditional Chinese Medicine material. It has a long record in European, Egyptian, Greek, and Roman herbal traditions.
Primary Actions
- Traditionally used as a calming tea
- Traditionally used for indigestion and digestive discomfort
Secondary Actions
- Traditionally used for cough, bronchitis, and topical irritation
Classical References
- European and Mediterranean herbal medicine traditions
Modern Research
Active Compounds
- Apigenin
- Bisabolol
- Chamazulene
- Matricin
- Flavonoids
Studied Effects
- Sleep quality, with mixed and limited trial evidence
- Generalized anxiety symptoms, with preliminary findings
- Drug interaction and allergy risk
PubMed References
Safety & Interactions
Contraindications
- Known allergy to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, or related plants
Cautions
- Severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, have occurred.
- Hormone-sensitive conditions deserve caution because chamomile may have estrogen-like effects.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safety are not established.
Drug Interactions
Chamomile interactions have been reported with warfarin and some liver-metabolized medicines. Sedative effects may be additive, and preliminary research raises possible concerns with oral contraceptives and hormone-sensitive conditions.
- Warfarin … An interaction has been reported, creating a possible bleeding risk. (Major) Source: NCCIH Chamomile
- Sedatives … Chamomile may add to drowsiness or other sedative effects. (Moderate) Source: NCCIH Chamomile
- Liver-metabolized medicines … Interactions with some drugs processed by the liver have been reported, but the affected classes are not fully defined. (Uncertain) Source: NCCIH Chamomile
- Oral contraceptives … Preliminary evidence suggests chamomile's estrogen-like effects might reduce contraceptive effects. (Uncertain) Source: NCCIH Herb-Drug Interactions
Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is German Chamomile used for?
German Chamomile is traditionally used to Traditionally used as a calming tea, Traditionally used for indigestion and digestive discomfort. Research has investigated its effects on: Sleep quality, with mixed and limited trial evidence; Generalized anxiety symptoms, with preliminary findings.
What are other names for German Chamomile?
German Chamomile is also known as Chamomile, Matricaria chamomilla, Chamomilla recutita. In TCM: Matricaria recutita.
Is German Chamomile safe during pregnancy?
The safety of German Chamomile during pregnancy has not been established. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use.
What are the contraindications for German Chamomile?
German Chamomile should not be used in: Known allergy to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, or related plants. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use.
Does German Chamomile interact with any medications?
German Chamomile may interact with: Warfarin - An interaction has been reported, creating a possible bleeding risk. - (Major severity); Sedatives - Chamomile may add to drowsiness or other sedative effects. - (Moderate severity); Liver-metabolized medicines - Interactions with some drugs processed by the liver have been reported, but the affected classes are not fully defined. - (Uncertain severity); Oral contraceptives - Preliminary evidence suggests chamomile's estrogen-like effects might reduce contraceptive effects. - (Uncertain severity). Always inform your healthcare provider of any herbal supplements you are taking.