Chamomile for Insomnia
ABased on 27 studies (5 meta-analyses, 4 RCTs) with 3,612 total participants. 17/27 studies show positive effects.
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A
The Bottom Line
Chamomile is well-supported by research as a gentle, natural option that may help improve sleep quality for people with insomnia.
- 17 out of 27 studies show positive effects, with Grade A evidence rating
- Both oral chamomile supplements and chamomile aromatherapy have shown benefits
- The active compound apigenin works through GABA receptors to promote sleepiness
- Benefits have been demonstrated across diverse populations including elderly and cancer patients
Key Study Findings
review
Topical application of medicinal plant oils in pediatric-related disorders: A comparative review article based on …
Dose: various medicinal plant oils (topical application)
vs: Placebo
Effect: None
None
randomized_controlled_trial
n=80
2 weeks
Effects of chamomile oil inhalation on sleep quality in young adults with insomnia: A randomized …
Dose: chamomile oil inhalation for 10 minutes per day for 15 days
vs: Placebo
Effect: significant reduction in PSQI and ISI in aromatherapy group vs control (p<0.001 for both between-gro
<0.001 (between-group PSQI and
basic science
German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) Induces Cytochrome P450 Expression Through Increased BMAL1 Protein Expression in Liver …
Dose: German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) extract
vs: Placebo
Effect: None
None
Review
Integrative sleep management: from molecular pathways to conventional and herbal treatments.
Dose: None
vs: Placebo
Effect: None
None
Review
A review on essential oils: A potential tonic for mental wellbeing in the aging population?
Dose: None
vs: Placebo
Effect: None
None
narrative review
Herbal and Natural Supplements for Improving Sleep: A Literature Review.
Dose: varies by supplement
vs: Placebo
Effect: None
None
Key Statistics
27
Studies
3612
Participants
↑
Positive
A
Grade
Referenced Papers
International journal of …
2025
6 citations
Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's archives of …
2025
4 citations
Maturitas
2025
4 citations
Avicenna journal of …
2025
Biochemical genetics
2025
Psychiatry investigation
2024
24 citations
Effects of chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) on sleep: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials.
Meta-Analysis
Complementary therapies in …
2024
23 citations
Frontiers in public …
2023
13 citations
Biomolecules & therapeutics
2023
7 citations
Medicinal herbs for the treatment of anxiety: A systematic review and network meta-analysis.
Meta-Analysis
Pharmacological research
2022
51 citations
Frontiers in pharmacology
2022
31 citations
Combinatorial chemistry & …
2021
16 citations
Advances in experimental …
2021
7 citations
Phytotherapy research : …
2019
62 citations
GABA-modulating phytomedicines for anxiety: A systematic review of preclinical and clinical evidence.
Systematic Review
Phytotherapy research : …
2018
95 citations
Complementary therapies in …
2017
65 citations
The Effect of Aromatherapy on Insomnia and Other Common Symptoms Among Patients With Acute Leukemia.
Other
Oncology nursing forum
2017
58 citations
Sleep medicine reviews
2015
152 citations
The Australian and …
2014
32 citations
BMC complementary and …
2011
112 citations
Molecular medicine reports
2010
398 citations
Sleep medicine
2009
54 citations
Journal of psychopharmacology …
2005
176 citations
Oral nonprescription treatment for insomnia: an evaluation of products with limited evidence.
Review
Journal of clinical …
2005
Integrative cancer therapies
2004
59 citations
Primary care
2002
43 citations
The Journal of …
2000
5 citations
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 plant oils (topical application) | -- | Positive | -- |
| chamomile oil inhalation for 10 minutes per day for 15 days | 2 weeks | Positive | 80 |
| German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) extract | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| varies by supplement | -- | Positive | -- |
| varies | -- | Positive | 772 |
| single essential oil or blended oil massage; specific volumes not reported in abstract | -- | 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 Insomnia?
Based on 27 studies with 3,612 participants, there is strong evidence from multiple clinical trials that Chamomile may support Insomnia management. Our evidence grade is A (Strong Evidence).
How much Chamomile should I take for Insomnia?
Studies have used various dosages. A commonly studied range is 270-400 mg extract or 1-3 cups tea. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.
Are there side effects of Chamomile?
Reported side effects may include Allergic reactions (ragweed family), Nausea, Drowsiness. Most side effects are mild and dose-dependent. Consult your doctor if you experience any adverse reactions.
How strong is the evidence for Chamomile and Insomnia?
We rate the evidence as Grade A (Strong Evidence). This rating is based on 27 peer-reviewed studies with 3,612 total participants. The overall direction of effect is positive.
Related Evidence
Other ingredients for Insomnia
Chamomile for other conditions
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.