English Chamomile

BotanicalBest before bed

What is it

English chamomile, also called Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), is a perennial herb distinct from the more common German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla). It is used in herbal medicine for digestive complaints, anxiety, and sleep, and the essential oil is widely used in aromatherapy.

Evidence for 2 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Anxiety / relaxation

Limited Evidence

Traditional use and limited clinical evidence support modest anxiolytic effects. More evidence exists for German chamomile.

Digestive support

Limited Evidence

Traditional use for indigestion and GI spasms is widely accepted; clinical evidence is mostly for German chamomile.

How it works

Roman chamomile contains different compounds than German chamomile. Its essential oil is rich in esters of angelic and tiglic acids (giving a fruity, apple-like aroma), with smaller amounts of chamazulene compared to German chamomile. The herb also contains flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin), sesquiterpene lactones (nobilin), and coumarins. These compounds contribute to mild anxiolytic, spasmolytic, anti-inflammatory, and digestive-supportive effects. Apigenin in particular binds GABA-A receptors, contributing to calming effects. Most modern research focuses on German chamomile; Roman chamomile is more often used in traditional and aromatherapy contexts.

Dosage

Dried herb: 1-4 g as infusion 3 times daily. Tincture (1:5): 1-4 mL three times daily. Essential oil for aromatherapy use only (dilute 1-3% for topical).

When and how to take it

WHEN: Tea or tincture before meals (digestive support) or before bed (sleep support). Aromatherapy as needed for relaxation.

3 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Dried flowers (tea)

Used as infusion.

Standard traditional preparation

Essential oil

More expensive than German chamomile essential oil.

Aromatic and topical use

Tincture

Concentrated form.

Liquid extract

Safety

Generally well tolerated. Allergic reactions possible in Asteraceae-sensitive individuals (ragweed, daisies). Roman chamomile has higher sesquiterpene lactone content and slightly higher allergy potential than German chamomile.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in Asteraceae allergy. Caution in pregnancy (some sources advise avoiding due to traditional emmenagogue use). Avoid before surgery.

Interactions

May enhance effects of CNS depressants and sedatives. Possible mild anticoagulant effect (coumarins) - theoretical interaction with warfarin.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between Roman and German chamomile?⌄

They are different plants with overlapping but distinct uses. German chamomile (Matricaria) has more clinical research; Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum) is more common in aromatherapy and traditional European herbal use.

Is chamomile safe before bed?⌄

Yes, chamomile tea is widely used before bed and generally well tolerated. Avoid if allergic to ragweed or related plants.

References

English Chamomile on Wikidata — Wikidata link

English Chamomile on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on English Chamomile (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.