Two types of chamomile are used for health conditions: German chamomile and Roman chamomile. While the two kinds are thought to have similar effects on the body, the German variety is more commonly used in the United States.

Common Names: chamomile, German chamomile
Latin Names: Matricaria recutita, Chamomilla recutita

What It Is Used For:

• Chamomile has been widely used in children and adults for thousands of years for a variety of health conditions.

• The herb is often used for sleeplessness; anxiety; and gastrointestinal conditions such as upset stomach, gas, and diarrhea.

• It is used topically for skin conditions and for mouth ulcers resulting from cancer treatment.

How It Is Used
The flowering tops of the chamomile plant are used to make teas, liquid extracts, capsules, or tablets. The herb can also be applied to the skin as a cream or an ointment, or used as a mouth rinse.

What the Science Says:

• Chamomile has not been well studied in people so there is little evidence to support its use for any condition.

• Some early studies point to chamomile’s possible benefits for mouth ulcers and certain skin conditions. In combination with other herbs, it may be of some benefit for upset stomach and for diarrhea in children.

Side Effects and Cautions

• There are reports of rare allergic reactions in people who have eaten or come into contact with chamomile products. Reactions include skin rashes, throat swelling, shortness of breath, and anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic reaction).

• People are more likely to experience allergic reactions to chamomile if they are allergic to related plants in the daisy family, which includes ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and daisies.

Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health.

Cautionary Notes & Disclaimers:
The herbal uses, strategies and properties detailed on this website and its associated materials are offered for reference purposes, and should not be used in place of medical advice. While certain herbs have long been purported for their use in ease of various symptoms, they should be used only under the supervision of a medical or alternative health practitioner. We cannot be held responsible for the actions taken by any reader of this website or its associated materials.

Information provided herein is not intended to diagnose, prescribe, or treat any illness, or injury and is provided for informational purposes only. Always consult a medical doctor, or other alternative medical practitioner when suffering from any disease, illness, or injury, or before attempting a traditional or folk remedy. Keep all products away from children and pets. As with any natural product, they can be toxic if misused.