Chamomile for Anxiety-Related Sleep Problems
B Good Evidence At least one randomized trial supports this, with mostly consistent results.Based on 4 studies (2 meta-analyses). 3/4 studies show positive effects.
The Bottom Line
Chamomile may help improve sleep when anxiety is keeping you awake, with most studies showing positive effects through its calming GABA-related activity.
- 3 out of 4 studies show positive effects, including 2 meta-analyses
- Works through GABA-modulating pathways that promote relaxation
- Has a long traditional history of use as a calming bedtime tea
- Grade B evidence — promising but would benefit from additional clinical trials
Key Study Findings
Key Statistics
4
Studies
--
Participants
Positive
Grade
Referenced Papers
Dosage & Usage
mg = milligrams · mcg = micrograms (1,000× smaller) · IU = International Units
Commonly Used Dosages
- sleep:
- 270-400 mg extract or 1-3 cups tea
Upper limit: Not established
Dosages Studied in Research
| Dosage | Duration | Effect | N |
|---|---|---|---|
| Various medicinal herbs: Silexan, Kava, Ginkgo biloba, Withania somnifera, Galphimia glauca, Passion | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
Best taken: 30-60 minutes before bed
Safety & Side Effects
Reported Side Effects
- ⚠ Allergic reactions (ragweed family)
- ⚠ Nausea
- ⚠ Drowsiness
Known Interactions
- ● Blood thinners (warfarin) — chamomile contains coumarin compounds
- ● CYP1A2 substrates — chamomile may inhibit this enzyme
- ● Sedatives — mild additive effects
Tolerable upper intake: Not established
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Chamomile help with Anxiety-Related Sleep Problems?
How much Chamomile should I take for Anxiety-Related Sleep Problems?
Are there side effects of Chamomile?
How strong is the evidence for Chamomile and Anxiety-Related Sleep Problems?
Related Evidence
Other ingredients for Anxiety-Related Sleep Problems
Chamomile for other conditions
References
- [1] Wenting Zhang et al.. Pharmacol Res. 2022. Medicinal herbs for the treatment of anxiety: A systematic review and network meta-analysis. doi:10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106204 PubMed
- [2] Karen Savage et al.. Phytother Res. 2018. GABA-modulating phytomedicines for anxiety: A systematic review of preclinical and clinical evidence. doi:10.1002/ptr.5940 PubMed
- [3] David Wheatley. J Psychopharmacol. 2005. Medicinal plants for insomnia: a review of their pharmacology, efficacy and tolerability. doi:10.1177/0269881105053309 PubMed
- [4] Keith I Block et al.. Integr Cancer Ther. 2004. Safety and efficacy of herbal sedatives in cancer care. doi:10.1177/1534735404265003 PubMed
FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.