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Chamomile

Table of Contents

Treatment Overview

Chamomile is an herb that people have used for centuries. It is available in many forms. They include chamomile tea, dietary supplements, and products put on the skin or used in a diffuser.

Why It Is Used

Some people drink chamomile tea for an upset stomach, sleeping problems, or menstrual pain. Others take chamomile supplements for anxiety. Or they use creams, gels, and ointments with chamomile for skin conditions.

Limited studies have been done on chamomile. But so far there isn't clear proof that taking chamomile helps with these or other health problems.

Risks

Side effects are uncommon but may include nausea, dizziness, or mild-to-severe allergic reactions. If you are allergic to plants like ragweed, you may not be able to use chamomile. Chamomile may interfere with medicines like cyclosporin or warfarin (a blood thinner).

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate dietary supplements in the same way it regulates medicine. A dietary supplement can be sold with limited or no research on how well it works.

Always tell your doctor if you are using a dietary supplement or if you are thinking about combining a dietary supplement with your conventional medical treatment. It may not be safe to forgo your conventional medical treatment and rely only on a dietary supplement. This is especially important if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

When using dietary supplements, keep in mind the following:

Credits for Chamomile

Current as of: May 13, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
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The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.